Editorial
Make vaccination outlets visible
Dear Editor,
COVID-19 protocols have been eased and the wearing of nose masks is no longer mandatory, as President Akufo-Addo indicated in his last situational address to the nation.
While at it, he encouraged citizens to avail themselves of vaccination for Ghana to attain the 20 million target by July 2022, as the existing number of vaccinated persons was somewhat unsatisfactory.
Apart from apathy on the part of some Ghanaians, I believe limited information on where citizens could voluntarily go and take COVID-19 jab also accounts for the low figure recorded.
It is against this backdrop that I suggest the Ghana Health Service should consider a ‘mobile or door-to-door’ vaccination programme to enable more people take the jab, just as it does to polio vaccination for children.
Following increased public education on the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine, I believe many Ghanaians are now willing to take the vaccine; therefore, health authorities must make the vaccination outlets more visible to the public.
Although I may not be too conversant with operations in the health sector, I believe it would not be out of place for the authorities to send mobile vaccination vans to communities or establish more centres closer to residents so they could conveniently take the jab, and in the long run help the country attain its intended vaccination target.
James Gakpo,
Tema, Community 4.
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
