Let’s be extra careful this festive season

Dear Editor,

I am writing to bring to the attention of the general public the need to practise personal safety during this festive season.

As Christmas is approaching, I would urge everyone to be extra careful and pay particular attention to their surroundings.

We must be very vigilant and active as robbers, scammers and ritualists will be on the move to attack and steal people’s belongings.

Drivers must drive with caution and adhere to all road safety precautions including the regulations of traffic lights at various roadsides.

Travellers must also be alert and guard their belongings from thieves and robbers.

We must all make sure to stay safe during this festive season. We must ensure that we spend within our means and try as much as possible to avoid unnecessary borrowing and spending.

I would also urge that we should be cautious about the kind of personal information we give out to strangers and even friends as well as the activities we engage in during this festive season.

We should always ensure that our safety remains our major priority in anything we do.

Elizabeth Agyeibea

Ackon, Dzorwulu – Accra

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