Editorial
Virtual learning: A positive approach
Dear Editor,
The government in recent times continues to provide access to basic and secondary education and has taken steps to expand infrastructure so that more students could attain formal education.
But it appears those in our rural communities are still lagging behind in terms of infrastructure development and access to modern teaching and learning methods.
Computers, radio and television have now been turned into virtual learning classrooms but some rural folks are yet to tap these opportunities.
As efforts are made to bridge the gap between the educated and the uneducated in our society, I wish to encourage radio and television stations to air programmes which include lessons on basic phonetics, how to read and comprehend the Queen’s language, how to write business proposals, computer lessons, among others.
In the era of fast-paced technology, one does not necessarily need to enter a physical classroom to acquire knowledge or higher education.
We have started well but the more we introduce advanced forms of modern virtual learning systems — using television as an effective tool, the better it would serve our nation.
It is high time we brought an abrupt end to promoting and patronising television and radio programmes that did not add value in our effort to completely wipe out illiteracy.
Ebenezer K. N. Baiden-Amissah,
P O Box LG 1254,
Legon, Accra.
Let’s phase out ‘borla taxis’
Dear Editor,
I am impressed with the Greater Accra Regional Minister’s directive to ban tricycles (aboboyaas or ‘borla taxis’) from using the motorway and other express routes in Accra.
Indeed, we have always observed the inconvenience these tricycles cause as they convey refuse from one destination to the other and I must say the ban has been long overdue.
When I first settled in Accra, I used to observe how waste management companies collected garbage at residential areas at least twice every week and were paid for their services. I do not know how we came to leave waste collection in the hands of tricycle operators.
‘Aboboyaas’ are not designed for waste collection and we must put a stop to them. But just when I thought the ban was to take effect on November 1, 2021, I was told it had been extended to February 2022 so the operators could be educated on the new directive.
While I am somehow disappointed, I believe the three months grace period is in order. As we wait for the new deadline, I urge city authorities to provide a better alternative to the ‘aboboyaas’ and encourage private waste management companies to take over the collection and transportation of rubbish in the city.
Mavis Obeng,
North Kaneshie,
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
