Editorial
Teachers strike disturbing
●The strike is affecting academic activities
Dear Editor,
The recent strike declared by the four teacher unions is very disturbing as it is adversely affecting academic work and impacting students and parents negatively.
I do agree with these teachers who are demanding Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) as a result of the prevailing economic conditions in the country.
The striking teachers should also consider that students report to school everyday and practically do nothing although they have paid the required tuition fees.
Some students in their final year have also been left stranded. What will be the fate of these students if the teachers do not return to the classroom in time? How will they prepare for their examinations when teachers are not there to guide them?
It is worrying that some students just go to school without doing anything profitable thereby giving parents whose wards are in boarding houses sleepless nights as they do not know what their wards are up to.
Other parents are incurring additional cost as they have to add up to the stock of food items they had provided for their wards thinking it would take them through the term.
Inasmuch as I am not happy with the decision of the teacher unions, the government must take urgent steps to address the concern of teachers so they can return to the classroom as quickly as possible. I hear there are some ongoing negotiations and I hope the government and the unions would come to an amicable conclusion.
Pamela Lamptey,
Mallam-Accra.
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
