Editorial
Let’s continue to promote our mother tongue
Dear Editor,
Somewhere last week, the United Nations International Mother Language Day was observed. The commemoration held in February 21 every year is to promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity and to promote multilingualism.
Since 2000, the United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has fulfilled its mandate to use the day to promote indigenous languages.
Language users observe this day by paying attention to the mother tongue or first language for its crucial, diverse role in communication, education and cultural and linguistic diversity for harmonious co-existence.
UNESCO advocates teaching children in the mother tongue or first language since they grasp content better in the home language.
Following the ceremony and other calls to action, I believe it would be prudent for Ghanaians to use the local languages as part of teaching and learning instruction in classrooms, especially for young people.
Apart from English Language, parents must do well to inculcate the habit of communicating with their wards in their local languages as it would give them the opportunity to understand and apply our indigenous languages.
On the other hand, teachers must refrain from ‘restraining’ students from speaking their mother tongue, popularly known as ‘vernacular’. They should rather encourage them to converse freely in their local languages aside giving attention to English, French and other languages.
The use of local and international languages, if combined effectively, would go a long way to help pupil grasp what is being taught in class quicker and contribute to overall academic performance in schools.
By Yunusah Essandoh,
La-Accra.
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
