Editorial
Let Christmas fill our hearts with love, joy, and peace
Too soon Christmas has returned, and the excitement it brings is building as many people have already begun celebrating and making frantic preparations for the day.
To put it briefly, Christians worldwide celebrate Christmas on December 25 to remember the birth of Jesus Christ, the divine son.
In the lead-up to the Day, churches and schools have been hosting special carol services, bringing religious celebration and the pleasure of the season into the air.
In addition to other fun activities, there are a variety of decorations with shimmering lights at roundabouts, in front of stores, on Christmas trees in homes, and gift-giving.
The warmth and love that Christmas provides to families and everyone else when loved ones join together to share joyful moments makes it a unique season.
Giving, sharing, and spreading love are the genuine essence of the Christmas season. It is a moment to consider the birth of Jesus Christ and the virtues he personified, like as kindness, forgiveness, and compassion.
The basic pleasures of spending time with loved ones, eating meals together, and giving thanks for the blessings in our lives should take precedence over the décor.
Remember those who are less fortunate and those experiencing medical emergencies during this time as you enjoy Christmas with your family.
Let us also prioritise giving to those in need, or just saying or doing something nice to someone who is having a hard time.
It is crucial that believers never lose sight of the actual purpose of Christmas. The significance of the day should not be diminished in any way by sharing the celebration with others.
We can make this Christmas genuinely special for both ourselves and other people if we embrace the giving and sharing attitude.
The Spectator wishes its cherished readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in advance.
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie