Editorial
Provide Facilities for Children with Limb Deformities
Every child, including those with disabilities, has the fundamental right to elementary education and training, enabling them to develop their maximum potential and become self-reliant.
Unfortunately, despite provisions in the Persons with Disability Act 2006 (Act 715), children with limb deformities are often denied admission to schools due to their physical conditions, even when they show eagerness and capability to learn.
Limb deformities refer to abnormalities related to the growth and development of the arms or legs. As a result, parents of affected children are advocating for an increase in trained teachers and the provision of facilities in schools to accommodate these learners.
A parent shared with The Spectator that his daughter is highly talented but is being denied admission due to her disability. He also noted the difficulties in accessing health care for children with limb deformities. Another parent highlighted the emotional toll, stating that children are often teased or mocked by peers, leading to psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
According to statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, over 90% of children with disabilities in low-income countries do not attend school.
The concerns of parents are backed by Ghanaian law, including the 1992 Constitution, the Children’s Act of 1998 (Act 560), and the Persons with Disability Act 2006 (Act 715). These laws guarantee children with disabilities the right to education, non-discrimination, dignity, social participation, special care, and protection from exploitation and abuse.
Despite these legal protections, implementation gaps due to inadequate monitoring and enforcement continue to deny many children access to education.
Many children can benefit from simple accommodations and modifications in schools, while others may require specialized, individualized support from special education professionals to help them learn and thrive.
Parents play a pivotal role as primary caregivers and advocates, supporting their children’s independence, encouraging mobility, and assisting with practical tasks.
It is also crucial for the government to provide social support by establishing more specialized orthopedic hospitals across the country to ease the burden on parents.
Addressing these barriers ensures that children with disabilities can participate in education and develop holistically, fulfilling their potential while contributing meaningfully to society.
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Dear Editor,
The recent flooding in various parts of Accra has once again exposed the city’s long-standing drainage and sanitation challenges.
Heavy rains over the past weeks have submerged homes, stranded motorists, destroyed properties and displaced several residents in communities such as Alajo, Mallam, Kaneshie, Dansoman and other flood-prone areas.
Reports also indicate that the spillage of the Weija Dam has worsened the situation for some downstream communities.
It is worrying that flooding has become an annual occurrence despite repeated promises by authorities to address the problem.
Many drains remain choked with refuse, waterways are obstructed by illegal structures, and poor planning continues to increase the vulnerability of residents.
The consequences are not only economic but also pose serious risks to human lives and public health.
While government agencies and NADMO have activated emergency response measures, prevention must receive equal attention.
Citizens must stop dumping waste into gutters, while city authorities must intensify desilting exercises, enforce building regulations and ensure that drainage systems are properly maintained.
Accra deserves a lasting solution to this recurring disaster. The time has come for all stakeholders government, local assemblies and residents to work together to make the capital safer and more resilient during the rainy season.
Samuel Tetteh,
Accra.
Dear Editor
I write with deep concern about the steady decline and near-collapse of our once-promising movie industry.
Not long ago, Ghana’s film sector was vibrant, producing movies that entertained, educated, and projected our culture across Africa and beyond.
Today, however, the industry appears to be struggling for survival.
Many talented actors, directors, and producers are leaving the scene due to lack of funding, poor distribution channels, and minimal government support.
Piracy continues to rob filmmakers of their rightful earnings, while investors show little confidence in the sector because returns are uncertain.
As a result, production quality has dropped significantly, and audiences are gradually turning to foreign content.
Another major challenge is the absence of modern equipment and well-equipped studios. In addition, the lack of structured training institutions for film production and acting has affected professionalism in the industry.
Social media content creators have now replaced traditional filmmakers, but without proper coordination, this cannot fully sustain a national film industry.
If urgent steps are not taken, Ghana risks losing an important cultural and economic asset. I therefore appeal to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, private investors, and stakeholders to collaborate in reviving the industry through funding support, strict anti-piracy measures, and the establishment of modern film production hubs.
Our stories matter, and our industry must not be allowed to die.
Jane Addai,
Accra
