Editorial
Mixed feelings in Russia-Ukraine war
Dear Editor,
I have been a bit indifferent about the prevailing tension between Russia and Ukraine since I thought their war had nothing to do with us here, in Ghana. I, however, had to revise my stand after I read about the fate of Ghanaian citizens living in Ukraine.
The unwarranted assault on Ukraine had gone a long way to truncate the studies of Ghanaian students pursuing different programmes in that country. Indeed, I would not have been able to deal with such a disruption to my studies if I were in the shoes of these students.
Nonetheless, I congratulate the government of Ghana on evacuating some of the students back to Accra as it plans to rescue other stranded citizens.
But, it is somewhat uncertain whether the students who were yet to complete their studies in Ukraine would be permitted to complete here in Ghana.
I have heard parents of some of the students propose that the medical students from Ukraine should be allowed to complete their studies at the University of Ghana Medical School. I do not know the feasibility of this proposal but I agree there should be some internal arrangements for the students who are now victims of circumstance.
That being said, it is a mixed feeling for me anytime some unplanned events, such as the one in Ukraine, validate why we must develop home-grown solutions across all sectors.
I believe we should be able to build our education, health, security, financial systems, among others to the extent that we may not always have to turn abroad to seek support.
I am not against international collaboration or exchange of expertise but I am convinced that we can make our education system robust and attractive enough for students to study here in Ghana, work and live comfortably without necessarily seeking greener pastures elsewhere.
It is said that the “grass is not greener on the other side; it is greener where you water it.” We must, therefore, take a cue from world events and re-position ourselves and the country appropriately.
Omar Abubakr,
Mamprobi, Accra.
Dear Editor,
THE Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced that most Senior High Schools (SHSs) will return to the single-track system by this month.
For many students and parents, this feels like a relief. But before we move on, we must take a moment to reflect.
The double-track system helped thousands of students get into schools. It gave hope to families who couldn’t afford private education. But it also came with challenges.
Some students had shorter terms, others had longer breaks. Teachers were stretched, and learning felt rushed. Many students felt left behind not because they didn’t try, but because the system didn’t give them enough time.
Now that we’re returning to single-track, let’s make sure we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past. We need more classrooms, better planning, and support for teachers.
Education is not just about getting into school. It’s about feeling safe and supported. Let’s build a system that gives every child a real chance.
Beatrice Princess Kpeglah,
Dansoman
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Dear Editor
As it is critical for preserving our surroundings, there is the urgent need for increased awareness and action to protect Ghana’s environment and resources.
Ghana’s forest reserves, vast savannas and scenic coastlines serve as homes and habitats to a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species.
Our vegetation and rich soil deposits provide the nation with food, plants and animal resources, which ensures food availability and accessibility for the population.
However, the country’s environment is facing numerous threats including deforestation, overexploitation, pollution, etc.
The importance of environmental conservation cannot be overstated; our natural resources are the backbone of our economy, playing a vital role in driving the country’s economic growth and development.
It is therefore critical that we take actions to protect them for our future generations.
There is the need for collective action to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.
Environmentalists, various organizations and private individuals must come on board to promote environmental conservation, through tree planting exercises, clean-up campaigns, and resource conservation practices.
These efforts, when carried out effectively, would create a long-lasting impact in protecting and conserving the country’s environment.
The Ghanaian government should also implement policies and conduct regular programmes aimed at promoting environmental conservation.
By Theresa Tsetse Dzifa,
Bubiashie
