Editorial
Let’s go for the jab
The Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), which was first reported from Wuhan City in Hubei Province of China on December 31, 2019, has since created problems for many countries.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) confirmed the novel disease on January 12, 2020, and explained that it was the cause of a respiratory illness in a cluster of people in Wuhan City.
Ghana recorded its first two cases of COVID–19 on March 12, 2020. The cases were all imported, but the disease quickly spread through the country within a few weeks of the first cases. The rest of the world was not spared also as the virus spread like wildfire.
The devastating effect of COVID-19 has seen many economies become destroyed and unable to organise well to improve upon the welfare of their citizens.
For this reason, economic growth slowed down and unemployment and other economic problems threatened the lives of many people.
Apart from economic problems, other people lost their lives as a result. Ghana was no exception to this calamity.
This is why the Government of Ghana fought hard to receive vaccines to prevent the infection of more people.
Many people have gone for the vaccination but others have not.
The refusal on the part of people to go for vaccination is due to some misconceptions about the vaccination.
There are some people who believe that men who go for the vaccination will be rendered impotent. These and other misconceptions have made it difficult for many people to go in for the COVID-19 jabs.
Generally, people are expected to go for three rounds of jab. These vaccines are meant to protect people who have taken the jab, so that infection will be drastically reduced.
The Spectator is, therefore, encouraging all people in the country to go for the vaccination because the COVID-19 is still around.
Health officers in the country have been doing their best to spread the good news to everyone.
The Government of Ghana also did its best to bring the situation under control when the pandemic was at its peak.
Anyone who values their life should go for the vaccine and complete all the jabs, so that they will be protected against the disease.
If we all do this, the spread of the disease will be curtailed and people in Ghana will be more productive since they will be protected from infection.
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
