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Pay attention to upbringing of daughters – Fathers told
An accomplished mariner and Dean of Maritime Studies at the Regional Maritime University (RMU), Prof. Nana Ofosu Boateng, has urged fathers to pay attention to the upbringing of their daughters.
These are usually considered roles for mothers but in the view of Prof. Boateng, men can play such roles effectively.
Prof. Boateng made these remarks following the recent launch of his latest book, titled ‘Follow the King,’ in Accra.
The 23-chapter book offers timeless wisdom and practical insights, blending maritime discipline with life lessons to inspire the next generation.
It also addresses issues on intentional parenting, academic discipline and spiritual growth.
According to Prof. Boateng, fathers must be heavily involved to guide their daughters to become responsible adults and not focus only on financial support.
“It is important for fathers to be physically present, provide proper guidance to daughters towards growth and prosperity. Educational and financial support is not just enough,” he stressed.
‘Follow the King: The Making of a Confident, God-Fearing, Straight-A’s Daughter by a Father – The How,’ is a profound reflection on life’s journey and personal experiences, crafted to serve as a guide for young people striving toward success.
In his address, Prof. Boateng shared the story behind the book, which chronicled the journey of a young seafarer who rose through the ranks to become a captain and later transitioned into academia to be closer to his family.
“This book serves as both a parenting guide and a memoir. It offers young people a roadmap to becoming responsible adults, grounded in faith, discipline and purpose,” he said.
He further reflected on the personal motivation behind the book saying “it also captures how I committed myself to raising my daughter, ensuring she became a confident, high-achieving young woman, both academically and professionally.”
The book, a six-year labour of love and reflection, he emphasised, underscored the importance of divine presence and intervention in life’s journey.
“That’s why I chose the title Follow the King, to remind readers that with God, all things are possible,” Prof. Boateng explained.
Describing the work as “a celebration of purpose, passion and godly parenting,” he emphasised that the book was especially relevant to seafarers, young girls, and families seeking a faith-based approach to success and character building.
He urged young people to remain disciplined, work diligently and be guided by the word of God as they pursued academic and professional excellence.
The launch of the book drew a distinguished audience, comprising maritime industry professionals, academics, faith leaders, family, friends and colleagues to celebrate the remarkable milestone in Prof. Boateng’s personal and professional journey.
Since the unveiling, ‘Follow the King’ has received widespread endorsement from dignitaries and industry leaders and currently available in major bookstore, amazon and at the RMU.
The Bunbong community in the Northern Region was filled with excitement over the weekend as residents gathered at the forecourt of the Bunbong Chief’s Palace to celebrate the annual Linujil festival.
The festival, hosted by the Chief of Bunbong, Uborr Wumbe Dawuni, brought together different tribes including Konkomba, Dagombas, Gonjas, Fulbes, and the Anufus from neighbouring communities to celebrate culture, unity, and tradition through dance, drumming, and colourful performances.
In his address, Uborr Wumbe Dawuni expressed gratitude to the people of Bunbong and surrounding communities for their continuous support. He said the Linujil festival was not only a moment of celebration but also a time to reflect on the community’s values of peace, unity, and respect.
“The Linujil festival reminds us of who we are and where we come from. It strengthens our bond as one people and encourages the younger generation to preserve our cultural heritage,” he said.
The Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf, commended the Chief and people of Bunbong for keeping their cultural heritage alive and praised the hardworking farmers for their dedication to yam production.
Mr. Adolf further emphasised that health and education remain key pillars for building stronger communities, assuring the people that government would continue to support them in achieving their developmental goals. He also applauded Rocky Dawuni for his outstanding performance and for promoting the image of Northern Ghana on the international stage.
Mr. Angelo Yossi Dogbe, representative of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, commended the people of Bunbong for using the Linujil festival to promote cultural tourism and community pride.
Mrs. Cary Sullivan, co-producer of the event and founder of Afro Funke, described the Linujil festival as an inspiring cultural experience that reflects the heart of Ghana’s creative energy.
A major highlight of the event was an electric live performance by Ghanaian music star and son of the land, Rocky Dawuni, whose vibrant show captivated the audience. He was joined on stage by Alidu Mohammed of Playing for Change fame, adding even more excitement to the night.
By Geoffrey Buta, Bunbong
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A new policy from the Ministry of Education (MoE) about the compulsory use of Ghanaian languages as the medium of instruction in basic schools has stirred controversy among the populace, especially parents.
The announcement, made last month by the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, aims to improve foundational learning and preserve Ghana’s rich linguistic heritage.
The move has been welcomed by some parents, applauding the efforts to keep the local language alive and help children learn and speak them. However, several concerns have been raised in opposition, forcing the ministry to clarify certain parts that seemed not to have been understood.
While some welcomed the move, citing better comprehension and cultural connection for young learners, others raised concerns about its practicality in diverse classrooms.
In a swift reaction, the MoE, through its Deputy Minister, Dr. Clement Apaak, clarified that the new directive issued by the sector minister was strictly limited to the earliest stages of basic education and does not extend across all levels.
In separate interviews conducted by The Spectator, parents remained divided on the policy and proffered diverse solutions to ensure its effectiveness.
“My daughter speaks Twi at home, so learning in Twi will help her grasp concepts faster,” said Mrs. Efia Asante, a mother of two. In her view, since her daughter already has a good grasp of the Twi language, it would be easier for her to understand the teachers.
Mrs. Rebecca Asare told The Spectator she shares the ministry’s explanation, saying that it is important to adopt measures that encourage young children to speak the native languages.
In sharp contrast, Mr. Albert Agyekum from Ablekuma commended the idea but questioned: “Can one teacher speak all the languages in a diverse classroom?”
Mr. Amoako Mark, whose child attends a school without a Ga teacher, wondered how his ward, who speaks only the Ga language, would cope under such circumstances.
Nii Amui also questioned how teachers in a class with children speaking different languages would manage if they cannot speak more than one local language.
Other parents also raised issues about regional language adaptation. Miss Eliza Vikporho argued that children naturally learn the dominant language of their environment. “If you live in the Volta Region, you learn Ewe. That’s how it has always been. Why make it compulsory?” she asked.
Still, others believe the policy could foster unity and elevate lesser-known Ghanaian languages.
By Beatrice Wonovi Kpeglah
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