Editorial
Sustainable development models needed
Dear Editor,
Social media platforms have recently been bombarded with hashtags and messages urging officials to find solutions to the country’s numerous challenges. However, development does not occur in a vacuum and cannot be attained by creating hashtags.
In today’s world, India is the destination for all things technological. This has been possible as the country had over the years made conscious effort to invest heavily in the sector.
In Ghana, Indians, considered experts in the field, work in IT departments of most enterprises and international corporations. Same could be said of Cuban doctors.
Bearing in mind our current challenges, I believe, it was time we took a cue from these partner countries and concentrate resources in the areas where we have the most potential or competitive advantage.
People may ask reasonable questions about this proposition by blaming our problems on leadership but I am convinced that our problems are more widespread.
It is high time we returned to our roots and began channelling our strengths in a way that benefits everyone equally while designing social and sustainable development model.
We can look back in history to the General Acheampong regime’s “Operation Feed Yourself” policy. We did not go out of our way to sell whatever we made; instead, we ate what we put our joint efforts into. For most citizens, this became a means of survival.
Authorities may do all possible to ensure the country’s progress, but we must not forget that we, as citizens, also have a responsibility to play. Let us all help fix the country, just as we all ascribe to one of the numerous patriotic tunes, “we are all involved in making our motherland.”
The sustainable development measures, when combined, will not assist to erase the country’s problems overnight, nor will they help to drastically reduce our unemployment rate, but they may help to alleviate them.
From Price Botchway, Adentan Accra
Dear Editor,
I write to raise urgent concern about ongoing construction activities that are dangerously narrowing a lane near Darkuman Circle Station. This lane has already suffered years of encroachment, and the latest developments could block access for fire tenders, cesspit trucks, ambulances, and other emergency responders.
There is an orange storey building on the right side of the lane. Nearly two decades ago, a structure that completely closed off this lane was demolished following pressure from residents and extensive media coverage. However, workers have returned and erected another structure, leaving part of the lane open but still encroaching.
On the left side of the lane, stores are also being constructed. While the owners are respecting the ground boundary, the buildings extend over the wall, further narrowing the passage. If this continues unchecked, the lane could become impassable for large vehicles. In an emergency, lives could be lost simply because help cannot get through. This is not just a planning issue; it is a serious public safety risk.
I have drafted a petition and will be gathering signatures from neighbors by the close of day. We intend to address it to the Accra Director of Fire Service, the Ablekuma North Municipal Chief Executive, and our Assemblyman. We hope the relevant authorities will act swiftly to prevent further encroachment and restore safe access to the lane.
Mama Moli, Darkuman
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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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