A Testament to Compassionate Care and Institutional Foresight

I recently had a conversation with my aunt, a retired teacher who has been diagnosed with cervical cancer. She was first admitted to a hospital in Kumasi; however, the quality of medical care she received there fell short of expectations. It was during this challenging period that she remembered the Sweden Ghana Medical Center (SGMC), a cancer treatment facility established by the Swiss and now owned by the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) in Accra.

When I later reached her, she informed me that she is currently undergoing treatment at the GNAT Hospital in Accra. Curious about her experience, I asked about the conditions of the facility and the standard of care being provided. Her response was overwhelmingly positive. She spoke highly of the professionalism, compassion, and excellence of the treatment describing it as far exceeding her expectations.

I also inquired whether she had been required to make any payments, considering that she was a GNAT member before her retirement. She explained that, so far, all medical services have been provided entirely free of charge, including her accommodation at the facility.

I was deeply touched by the exceptional care and support being extended to my aunt, and it is my heartfelt prayer that she makes a full and speedy recovery. I wish to express my profound gratitude to all GNAT members, and especially to the leadership, for their vision, commitment, and foresight in establishing such a critical healthcare facility for their members.

This initiative is truly laudable. I encourage all teachers across Ghana to take inspiration from this testimony and to continue supporting the GNAT fund and the cancer treatment hospital whenever the need arises.

By : Emmanuel Abanti

A Nation Failing Its Youth

 It’s pure madness to gather so many young people in one place and call it a military recruitment exercise. Has Ghana suddenly run out of space apart from those few centres? Why can’t this be done at the district level, with proper schedules so candidates can come in turns? Why do our so-called leaders refuse to use simple common sense? God have mercy on this country .it’s like thinking has become a scarce resource. 

Founder’s Day in Ghana: Honouring the Torchbearer of Our Freedom

Today, Ghana pauses to celebrate Founder’s Day , a day not just marked on the calendar, but etched deep in our national soul. It is a day of reflection, gratitude, and renewal. A day we remember the sacrifices, struggles, and vision of the one who dared to dream of a free and united Ghana.

Founder’s Day, observed on 21st September, honours Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President and the principal architect of our independence. Nkrumah’s life was dedicated to a singular mission: breaking the chains of colonialism and inspiring a new dawn for Africa. His fiery call of “self-government now” awakened a generation that refused to be bound by oppression.

But while Nkrumah’s name echoes most loudly, Founder’s Day is also about the collective spirit of countless unsung heroes whose courage paved the path to independence in 1957. Teachers, farmers, traders, market women, workers, and students ,all contributed to the movement that birthed the first free nation in sub-Saharan Africa.

This day calls us not only to remember history but to live it forward. The Ghana our forebears fought for was one rooted in unity, discipline, and service. It was a Ghana envisioned as the Black Star of Africa, leading the continent in freedom, justice, and progress.

As we celebrate Founder’s Day in 2025, we must ask ourselves hard questions:

• Are we protecting the hard-won freedom passed down to us?
• Are we nurturing the values of integrity, patriotism, and selflessness our founder embodied?
• Are we building an economy and society worthy of the sacrifices of those who came before us?

The truest way to honour our founder is not with parades and speeches alone, but with action. Action in our schools to educate with excellence, action in our communities to foster unity, action in our governance to fight corruption, and action in our personal lives to put Ghana first.

Today, let us reignite the torch of patriotism. Let us remind ourselves that freedom is not a finished gift, it is a responsibility to be guarded and expanded. And let us declare together: just as our founder gave us a nation, we will give the next generation a stronger, fairer, and brighter Ghana.

Happy Founder’s Day, Ghana! 
Long live our founder's.
Long live Ghana

UEW Student Develops AI Applications for Inclusive Education

In a remarkable display of innovation and social responsibility, a student of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), has developed Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications designed to promote inclusive education in Ghana. The initiative comes at a time when technology is increasingly becoming an essential tool in bridging educational gaps among students of diverse backgrounds and abilities.

The student, whose work has already gained attention among peers and lecturers, designed the AI-powered tools to support learners with special educational needs, particularly those with visual and hearing impairments, as well as students who struggle with literacy skills. The applications provide real-time speech-to-text conversion, audio-to-braille translation, interactive sign language support, and personalized learning assistance tailored to individual learning speeds.

According to the developer, the motivation behind the project stems from the challenges faced by many learners in Ghanaian classrooms who are often left behind due to disabilities or learning differences. “Inclusive education is not just about bringing everyone into the classroom—it is about making sure every student has the tools and opportunities to succeed. With AI, we can create solutions that give all learners equal access to knowledge,” the student explained.

Lecturers at UEW have lauded the project as a groundbreaking step towards transforming the education system, especially in line with the university’s mandate of training teachers and promoting educational equity. One lecturer noted that the application, if supported and scaled up, could revolutionize how inclusive education is practiced across the country, making Ghana a leader in educational innovation in Africa.

The development also highlights the growing role of young innovators in shaping the future of education through technology. By leveraging AI, this UEW student has demonstrated that solutions to Ghana’s educational challenges can come from within its own institutions of learning.

The project is currently being refined for pilot testing in selected schools. If successful, it could be adopted by the Ghana Education Service (GES) and integrated into teaching and learning nationwide. Stakeholders in education, disability advocacy, and technology have already expressed interest in collaborating to expand the initiative.

As Ghana continues to push for inclusive and equitable education under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this breakthrough from UEW signals hope for thousands of learners who may have otherwise been left behind. It is a reminder that when young minds are nurtured and supported, they can create technologies that make education not only smarter but also fairer for all.

Rethinking Weeding as Punishment in Ghanaian Schools: Educational and Developmental Implications

This paper examines the practice of assigning weeding as punishment in Ghanaian schools and its broader implications for student psychology, educational outcomes, and national development. Drawing on disciplinary theories and policy perspectives, the study argues that associating farming activities with punitive measures fosters negative perceptions of agriculture among students. The discussion further highlights the need for alternative disciplinary approaches that reinforce positive values without undermining the agricultural sector, which remains central to Ghana’s economic sustainability.

Introduction

Discipline in education is a fundamental aspect of child development, ensuring that students acquire values such as responsibility, respect, and self-control (Okumbe, 2001). In Ghana, one of the most common disciplinary measures used in basic and secondary schools is weeding, where students are instructed to clear grass or bushes as a consequence of misconduct. Former Chief of Staff Julius Debrah publicly criticized this practice, contending that it discourages young people from pursuing farming as a career (GhanaWeb, 2016). His assertion invites academic reflection on the psychological and socio-economic implications of this disciplinary practice.

Historical and Cultural Context

The use of manual labor as punishment in African schools has colonial roots, where physical tasks such as weeding or cleaning were used to enforce obedience (Boakye, 2019). Over time, the practice became normalized in Ghanaian schools, justified by its dual function of discipline and maintenance of the school environment. While efficient in the short term, such measures have unintended long-term effects on students’ attitudes toward farming.

Psychological and Educational Implications

According to Skinner’s behaviorist theory of punishment, undesirable behavior is reduced by associating it with aversive stimuli (Skinner, 1953). In the case of weeding, however, the aversive stimulus (manual farming-related activity) overlaps with a vital sector of national development. This association fosters negative attitudes toward agriculture, reinforcing perceptions of farming as punishment rather than opportunity. Studies on student attitudes in sub-Saharan Africa confirm that many young people perceive agriculture as “dirty work” and aspire to white-collar professions instead (Afande, Maina, & Maina, 2015).

Furthermore, the self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 2000) emphasizes that intrinsic motivation thrives when tasks are perceived as meaningful. When weeding is framed as punishment, its intrinsic value as a productive activity is lost, thereby diminishing students’ motivation to view agriculture positively.

Alternatives to Weeding as Punishment

Progressive educational systems advocate for restorative disciplinary practices, which focus on accountability, reflection, and personal growth (Morrison, 2005). Alternatives that can be adopted in Ghanaian schools include:

Reflective writing on the consequences of misbehavior.

Community service projects that benefit the school without stigmatizing farming.

Peer mentoring and conflict-resolution programs.

Leadership responsibilities that teach accountability.

Such measures build character while preserving agriculture’s dignity.

National Development Implications

Agriculture contributes significantly to Ghana’s GDP and employs a large percentage of the population (World Bank, 2022). Discouraging the youth from farming through negative associations undermines national strategies aimed at agricultural modernization and food security. As Aryeetey and Kanbur (2017) argue, structural transformation in Ghana depends heavily on repositioning agriculture as an attractive sector for the youth. If schools perpetuate farming as a punishment, this vision will be difficult to achieve.

Conclusion

The use of weeding as punishment in Ghanaian schools transcends issues of discipline; it affects national attitudes toward agriculture and long-term development. Julius Debrah’s call to reconsider this practice underscores the need for a shift toward disciplinary approaches that promote respect for farming while still upholding order in schools. By adopting restorative and motivational disciplinary strategies, Ghanaian schools can foster discipline, preserve agricultural dignity, and align education with the nation’s developmental priorities.

References

Afande, F. O., Maina, W. N., & Maina, M. P. (2015). Youth engagement in agriculture in Kenya: Challenges and prospects. Journal of Culture, Society and Development, 7(1), 4–19.

Aryeetey, E., & Kanbur, R. (2017). The economy of Ghana sixty years after independence. Oxford University Press.

Boakye, J. K. (2019). Corporal punishment and discipline in Ghanaian schools: Historical and contemporary issues. African Educational Review, 11(2), 45–60.

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78.

GhanaWeb. (2016, May 17). Julius Debrah calls for end to weeding as punishment in schools. Retrieved from https://www.ghanaweb.com

Morrison, B. (2005). Restorative justice in schools. In E. Elliott & R. Gordon (Eds.), New directions in restorative justice (pp. 26–51). Routledge.

Okumbe, J. A. (2001). Human resource management: An educational perspective. Educational Development and Research Bureau.

Skinner, B. F. (1953). Science and human behavior. Macmillan.

World Bank. (2022). Ghana agriculture sector overview. Retrieved from https://www.worldbank.org

When results are cancelled, dreams are cancelled too. It's time to break the cycle.

 

Each year, the release of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) results is met with great anticipation across Ghana. For many families, it is a defining moment marking the transition from junior high school to senior high school and determining the future paths of thousands of students. Yet, alongside the excitement, there is often a cloud of anxiety brought about by a recurring issue: the cancellation of results.

A Perennial Problem:

Over the years, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has had to withhold or cancel portions of results due to examination malpractices. These may include cases of leaked papers, impersonation, the use of unauthorized materials, or collusion among candidates. Unfortunately, this has become a perennial occurrence. Instead of focusing solely on celebrating the achievements of students, stakeholders are repeatedly confronted with the embarrassment and disruption that result cancellations bring.

Causes Behind the Trend:

1. Weak Examination Security : Despite efforts to safeguard question papers, leaks still find their way into the public domain.

2. High Pressure for Success : Parents, schools, and students often place enormous pressure on securing high grades, sometimes pushing candidates towards malpractice.

3. Lack of Strict Supervision : In some centers, invigilators and officials fail to enforce examination regulations firmly.

4. Commercialization of Education :  Some schools prioritize reputation and rankings over integrity, encouraging shortcuts to ensure their students perform well.

Impact on Students and Families:

Emotional Trauma: Affected candidates experience disappointment, shame, and a sense of injustice.

Educational Disruption: Cancellation of results delays the academic progression of many hardworking students.

Financial Strain: Families often spend years investing in their children’s education only to face setbacks through no fault of their own.

Erosion of Confidence: Constant cancellations cast doubt on the credibility of the examination system itself.

Finding a Way Forward:

To break this perennial cycle, all stakeholders must accept responsibility:

WAEC and MoE: Strengthen exam security through technology, including digital encryption of exam papers and real-time monitoring systems.

Schools: Shift focus from mere results to holistic education : teaching integrity, critical thinking, and real competence.

Parents: Encourage hard work and discipline instead of fueling unhealthy competition and shortcuts.

Students: Understand that true success is built on effort and honesty, not malpractice.

Conclusion:

The cancellation of BECE results should not be an annual headline. Ghana must rise above the cycle of malpractice and results annulment to protect the integrity of its education system. When students are allowed to earn their success honestly, the future of the nation becomes brighter. The “perennial problem” of results cancellation must give way to a perennial culture of discipline, fairness, and excellence.

KETASO is Teaching Ghana a lesson in excellence.

It is about time we studied KETASCO. What kind of magic are they doing that others cannot? From NSMQ to modelling practicals, they keep breaking boundaries. Is it better teachers, smarter students, or just discipline? Other schools must wake up because KETASCO is rewriting the story of excellence in Ghana. If they can do it, why not the rest?

Money Palava

 Greed for Money in Ghana , Our Bane. 

In Ghana today, one of the silent killers of progress is not poverty itself, but the unquenchable greed for money. This dangerous appetite has crept into our politics, business, churches, workplaces, and even family life ,leaving a trail of broken trust, underdevelopment, and moral decay.

From inflated contracts to “chop-chop” in public service, from pastors who fleece their congregations to businessmen who cheat customers, the story is the same  , people chasing money at all costs, even if it means selling integrity for a few coins. Sadly, this greed has eaten deep into our national fabric, making corruption seem normal and honesty seem foolish.

Greed blinds us. It makes leaders forget the people they swore to serve. It makes traders cheat customers with fake goods. It makes workers abandon their duties for side deals. It even makes some youths turn to scams instead of hard work. And while a few get rich overnight, the majority sink deeper into hardship.

If Ghana is to rise, we must confront this greed head-on. We must learn that true wealth is not in the size of our bank accounts but in the value we create, the honesty we uphold, and the legacy we leave behind.

The time has come for every Ghanaian from the flagstaff house to the market square  to choose integrity over ill-gotten riches. Let us reject the “quick money” mentality and embrace hard work, innovation, and service.

For if we continue to feed the monster of greed, it will devour our future. But if we starve it, Ghana will breathe again.

AiNetworks – Inspiring a Better Ghana

In Deep Mourning : A Tragic Helicopter Crash and the Road Ahead for Ghana

 

On August 6, 2025, a military Z-9 helicopter carrying eight officials including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed crashed in the forested Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region. All on board tragically perished.

This national calamity has plunged Ghana into grief. President Mahama has declared a three-day period of national mourning, with flags flown at half-mast. Local communities, religious bodies including Catholic bishops—and professional organizations have voiced solidarity, mourning the loss of patriots who served the nation.

Lessons for Government: Turning Tragedy into Transformation

1. Launch a transparent, independent investigation

Leading aviation experts have called for a probe by an Independent Accident Investigation Board, not just internal military review, to ensure credibility and alignment with ICAO regulations. Civil society and traditional leaders echo this call, urging full accountability and lessons learned.

2. Strengthen aviation safety protocols and equipment

Prompt recovery of the helicopter’s black box marks an important step. The government should reinforce maintenance checks, pilot training, and weather safety practices especially considering previous incidents like the March 2024 crash in the Western Region.

3. Invest in robust forensic and investigative capacity

This tragedy demands more than victim identification; it calls for deep forensic analysis from fire reconstruction to technical examination. A multi-disciplinary team of forensic experts must be mobilized.

4. Honor the legacies through continued action

The fallen were en route to an anti-illegal mining mission a cause they championed. Ghana must not falter in strengthening environmental enforcement and continuing their vision.

5. Provide healing support for bereaved families and communities

Enhanced counseling, community vigils, and pastoral support as seen in the Volta Region’s planned vigil are needed for communal healing.

A Call to Unity and Action

This disaster is not only a loss of lives , it’s a call for stronger systems, transparent governance, and united resolve. If Ghana responds with integrity and purpose, this tragedy may well forge a safer, more resilient path forward.

Parenting Challenges in Modern Ghana : Are We Losing Control?

Parenting has never been easy, but in today's fast-changing Ghanaian society, it's becoming even more complicated. From the influence of social media to economic hardship, parents are facing enormous challenges in raising disciplined, focused, and responsible children. Are we, as a nation, beginning to lose grip on the values that once shaped strong families?

1. The Pressure of Modern Living

Many parents now juggle multiple jobs just to make ends meet. This leaves little time to guide children or monitor their behavior. In the absence of parental presence, TV, smartphones, and social media often take over, teaching children things that may not align with our cultural or moral values.

2. The Influence of Western Culture

From the way children dress to the music they listen to, there's no denying the strong influence of foreign cultures. While some exposure can be positive, many children today imitate lifestyles that promote disrespect, materialism, and rebellion, often at odds with Ghanaian values of respect, humility, and hard work.

3. Discipline Without Abuse : A Lost Balance

Some parents still cling to the old methods of strict discipline, while others fear using any form of correction at all. This imbalance creates confusion for children. We must redefine discipline, not as abuse, but as loving correction and consistent boundaries.

4. Schools and Churches Can’t Do It Alone

It’s common to hear parents say, “The teacher or pastor will correct them.” But the primary responsibility lies with the home. Teachers and religious leaders are only meant to support,not replace,parents in the moral upbringing of a child.

5. What Can We Do?

Spend quality time with your children, no matter how busy you are.

Monitor their media consumption and online activity.

Teach by example: children often do what we do, not what we say.

Seek support from parenting groups, churches, and schools when needed.

Conclusion:

The future of Ghana lies in the hands of today’s children, and parenting is the foundation. We must rise to the challenge, adapt to the times, and return to the principles that build strong, value-driven families. Ghana needs more intentional parents, starting with you and me.

By Emmanuel Abanti

Mahama Care vs NHIS : Is Ghana rethinking of health financing or just reinventing the wheel?

Ghana stands once again at a critical crossroads in its healthcare journey. With the recent unveiling of MahamaCare, the political debate is intensifying: Are we witnessing a bold new vision for health financing, or merely an attempt to repackage the old under a new label?

Let’s step back and take a deeper look.

The NHIS Dream : A Promise in Decline?

When the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) was launched in 2003, it was hailed globally as a revolutionary step for a developing country. It aimed to replace the notorious “cash and carry” system, ensuring that every Ghanaian—rich or poor—had access to essential healthcare.

And for a while, it worked.

But today, many believe NHIS is on life support. Delayed reimbursements, expired medicines, poor service delivery, and loss of public trust have plagued the scheme. Instead of being the backbone of equitable health access, NHIS has become a shadow of its promise.

 Enter MahamaCare :Vision or Vintage?

Former President John Dramani Mahama has proposed a new system—MahamaCare—to restructure Ghana’s healthcare financing, strengthen primary health delivery, and reduce the financial burden on citizens.

From what has been revealed so far, MahamaCare seeks to:

Offer free primary healthcare to all Ghanaians.

Expand community-level health services.

Emphasize preventive healthcare over curative care.

Reform financing and reduce out-of-pocket payments.

At face value, it’s visionary. But critics argue: Isn’t this what NHIS was supposed to do in the first place?

 So, What’s Really Changing?

The heart of the debate is not just about what is being proposed, but how it will be implemented.

If MahamaCare is just a name change without structural reform, then we are indeed reinventing the wheel. But if it brings:

Better technology and data systems,

Transparent funding mechanisms,

Sustainable financing models,

A workforce overhaul,

then maybe, just maybe, this could be a necessary evolution of NHIS, not a reinvention, but a resurrection.

The Bigger Question: Can Ghana Sustain It?

Healthcare reform isn’t just about intentions. It’s about money, political will, and systems. With Ghana’s economic challenges, ballooning debt, and limited fiscal space, the question must be asked: Can we truly afford MahamaCare—or is this another political promise without a price tag?

What We Need As a Nation

1. A national health financing dialogue that cuts across party lines.

2. An audit and overhaul of the NHIS—not its burial.

3. Policy continuity, not political gimmicks.

4. A citizen-focused health system, not politician-focused branding.

Final Thoughts

Whether MahamaCare turns out to be a revolution or a remix, the health of Ghanaians should not be a political football. Ghana doesn’t need more slogans—we need systems that work.

Let’s hold our leaders accountable not just for what they promise, but how they plan to deliver it.

Is MahamaCare the future? Or are we chasing the shadow of a wheel we’ve already invented?

Let the people decide, but let the truth lead. 

By Emmanuel Abanti

Google Opens AI Centre in Accra

 

Big Win for Africa: Google Opens AI Centre in Accra with $37 Million Initiative.

History is unfolding right here in Ghana!  Google has officially launched a cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre in Accra, backed by a whopping $37 million investment aimed at unlocking Africa's digital future.

This isn’t just about technology , it’s about opportunity, innovation, and inclusion. The new centre is expected to focus on African languages, healthcare, agriculture, and education, ensuring that AI solutions reflect the realities and richness of the continent.

Ghana is being positioned at the heart of Africa’s AI revolution, and this move is a huge step toward making the continent a global tech powerhouse.

As we stand on the shoulders of innovation, we must rise to the occasion by building skills, investing in STEM education, and embracing the digital shift. The future is here, and it’s being built in Accra.

Let’s celebrate this milestone ,and get ready to code, create, and compete!

#GhanaRising #GoogleAIAccra

 #AiNetworks

Navigating Reform, Stability, and Strategy in Education – A Call for Focus in Ghana

Education is the backbone of every nation’s progress, and in Ghana, the journey has been both inspiring and challenging. From colonial legacies to modern-day educational shifts, Ghana’s education system continues to evolve sometimes rapidly, and other times, uncertainly. As we look toward the future, three critical pillars demand our attention: Reform, Stability, and Strategy.

Reform: Moving Beyond Cosmetic Changes
Educational reform in Ghana has often been marked by policy shifts that don’t always reach the classroom. New curricula, new grading systems, and new terminologies are introduced, but many teachers and students remain under-resourced and under-trained to adapt.

Reform must be meaningful, not just symbolic. We must ensure:

Teachers are involved in the decision-making process.
Resources reach rural and urban schools equally.
Teacher training aligns with curriculum changes.
Reforms address core issues like literacy, critical thinking, and skills development not just exam results.
Stability: Building Trust and Continuity
Too many changes in too short a time destabilize the very foundation we are trying to build. Stability means creating a system that is predictable, dependable, and equitable regardless of which government is in power.

We need to:

Protect education from political instability.
Avoid abrupt policy reversals that leave students and teachers confused.
Strengthen local education authorities and school governance structures.
Provide consistent funding for infrastructure, textbooks, and ICT access.
Strategy: Planning for the Next Generation
A good strategy doesn't only react, it anticipates. Ghana must embrace a long-term vision for education that is rooted in data, global trends, and local needs.

Some strategic steps include:

Investing in STEM and TVET to prepare youth for future job markets.
Integrating technology in both teaching and learning, especially in underserved areas.
Prioritizing early childhood education for foundational skills.
Encouraging public-private partnerships to support education financing and innovation.

The way forward:
Ghana’s educational future should not be left to chance. It must be shaped by thoughtful reform, grounded in stability, and driven by strategy. Our children deserve an education that doesn’t just help them pass exams but equips them to solve problems, create opportunities, and lead confidently in an ever-changing world.
Let’s come together parents, teachers, policymakers, NGOs, and communities to build an education system we can all be proud of.

Let’s talk. What changes would you like to see in Ghana’s education system?

#futureoflearning #educationforall #GhanaEducation 

By : Emmanuel Abanti

Value Human life

Value Human Life

By AiNetworks

A life is not a rag to tear,
Not something cheap, not just “out there.”
Each soul you see was gently made,
With dreams and tears that will not fade.

A beating heart, a silent cry,
A child with hope still reaching high.
Yet daily, pain and needless death,
Snuff out the light, steal sacred breath.

Why raise your hand to crush, not heal?
Why hate so fast, yet fail to feel?
The mob may roar, but truth stands still—
No one has the right to kill.

She stole? He lied? You judge, you strike—
But justice is not done with pikes.
We need a world that lifts, forgives—
A world that lets the guilty live.

Let mercy speak. Let justice guide.
Let love, not anger, stand with pride.
For every soul, both weak and strong,
Deserves to live—to right their wrong.

So next you see a life at stake,
Pause, reflect—for heaven’s sake.
Don’t throw a stone, don’t take a side—
Choose the path where peace can guide.

📌 #ValueHumanLife

✊🏾 #StopMobJustice

💔 #WeAreOneBlood

Cut-Off Points in Senior High Schools: An Academic Perspective

Cut-off points have become a significant feature in the admission process of Senior High Schools (SHS) across various education systems, particularly in developing countries. This system, often based on standardized examination performance, aims to ensure merit-based placement of students into different categories of schools. However, the practice raises concerns about equity, student well-being, and the holistic development of learners. This article explores the concept of cut-off points, their advantages, limitations, and potential reforms to create a more inclusive and balanced educational system.

Education serves as a cornerstone for national development, and equitable access to quality education is a critical goal for policymakers. In many countries, including Ghana, Senior High School admissions are largely determined by cut-off points — minimum academic thresholds set by schools to select students based on performance in standardized examinations such as the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). This approach intends to promote meritocracy and resource efficiency but has sparked debates on its fairness, effectiveness, and implications for student development.

Concept of cut-off points: Cut-off points are predefined minimum academic scores that students must achieve to gain admission into particular schools. These points are often influenced by:

• School Reputation and Performance History
• Availability of Resources and Facilities
• Geographical Location
• Government Policies on Education Placement

The cut-off point system aligns with the meritocratic model of education, which seeks to allocate limited educational opportunities based on academic performance.

Advantages of using Cut-Off Points 

1. Merit-Based Placement
   The system rewards hard work and academic excellence, ensuring that students with the highest scores access the best schools. This encourages a culture of competition and academic diligence.

2. Efficient Resource Utilization
   High-performing schools often have limited facilities and staff. Cut-off points help regulate the intake of students to ensure resources are efficiently allocated.

3. National Education Standards
   By placing students in schools that match their academic abilities, the system helps maintain consistent academic standards across the education sector.

4. Motivation for Students
   The prospect of gaining admission into prestigious schools acts as an incentive for students to excel in their studies.  Disadvantages of Cut-Off Points 

1. Educational Inequality
   The system disproportionately benefits students from well-resourced schools, often leaving behind those from marginalized communities. This creates a gap in access to quality education.

2. Psychological Pressure on Students
   The emphasis on high-stakes examinations can lead to stress, anxiety, and a narrow focus on memorization rather than comprehensive learning.

3. Neglect of Holistic Development
   Cut-off points primarily measure academic performance, overlooking other talents such as leadership, creativity, and sportsmanship.

4. Limited Second Chances
   Students who underperform due to temporary circumstances or late academic bloomers are often denied entry into top schools without consideration for improvement.

Ghana's Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) uses BECE results to place students into various Senior High Schools. The system has been lauded for its transparency but criticized for deepening educational inequality. A report by the Ghana Education Service (GES, 2023) indicates that only 18% of students from rural communities gain admission into Category A schools, compared to 60% from urban centers.

Recommendations:

1. Holistic Admission Criteria
   Admissions should combine academic performance with extracurricular achievements, leadership skills, and community service.

2. Affirmative Action Programs
   Special quotas should be allocated for students from underserved communities to promote inclusivity.

3. Continuous Assessment Integration
   Incorporating continuous assessment scores into final placement decisions can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of student abilities.

4. Mentorship and Remedial Programs
   Schools should implement mentorship and remedial classes for students who narrowly miss the cut-off points, offering them second chances.   Conclusion

Cut-off points in Senior High School admissions play a pivotal role in shaping educational outcomes. While they promote meritocracy and academic excellence, they also contribute to educational inequality and excessive pressure on students. To build a more equitable education system, policymakers must adopt a holistic approach that balances academic performance with broader measures of student potential. A reformed system will not only ensure fairness but also foster the holistic development of learners, paving the way for inclusive national development.

---

References

Ghana Education Service (2023). Annual Education Sector Performance Report. Accra, Ghana.
Mensah, J. & Boateng, K. (2020). "Equity and Access in Secondary School Admissions: A Case Study of Ghana." International Journal of Educational Development, 45(2), 112-128.
UNESCO (2022). Global Education Monitoring Report: Inclusion and Education. Paris, France.
Williams, P. (2021). "The Impact of Standardized Testing on Student Outcomes." Educational Research Quarterly, 34(3), 56-70.

Fire Outbreaks and Security Gaps: A Nation's Misplaced Priorities

In Ghana, countless communities face a glaring absence of essential services. Markets, often prone to fire outbreaks, operate without nearby fire stations, leaving livelihoods and lives at constant risk. Entire neighborhoods lack police presence, creating an environment of insecurity and vulnerability. A classic example is what has just happened to the people of Kantamanto. The whole market has been burnt down. 

Yet, in a puzzling twist of priorities, some individuals enjoy the privilege of having as many as 20 police officers and soldiers dedicated to their personal protection. This stark imbalance raises critical questions: Are our leaders truly addressing the needs of the people, or are we trapped in a cycle of misplaced priorities and inefficiency?

With fire outbreaks becoming increasingly common and security concerns mounting, it’s time to demand accountability and a governance system that prioritizes the safety and welfare of all citizens. Ghana deserves better.

By: Emmanuel Awedam

#awedam

#aisi

NEW YEAR RESOLUTION OR PLAN MADE SIMPLE

 Your New Year’s resolution framework is an excellent way to set priorities and structure your goals. Here’s a breakdown of each category with meaningful insights and critiques, along with practical application to your daily activities:  

1. Must Do

Meaning:

These are non-negotiable tasks or responsibilities that are critical to your well-being, career, or relationships. Failure to address these would have significant consequences.  

Application:

- Daily Activities:

   - Health: Prioritize exercise, balanced meals, and adequate sleep.  

   - Work: Complete essential job tasks or deadlines.  

   - Personal: Spend time with loved ones or fulfill obligations (e.g., bills, household management).  

Critique:

While these are essential, overloading this category can lead to stress. Be discerning—if everything is a “must,” nothing truly is. Reserve this category for what absolutely cannot wait or be compromised.  

2. Should Do

Meaning:

These are important tasks that contribute to long-term goals or improvements but aren’t immediately critical. They can be delayed or delegated without disastrous effects.  

Application:

- Daily Activities:

   - Skill-building: Enroll in courses, read industry-related books.  

   - Health: Regular doctor check-ups or advanced fitness goals.  

   - Relationships: Reach out to friends or network professionally.  

Critique:

This category is often overlooked in favor of “musts” or “desires.” Ensure you allocate time here, as neglecting these tasks can lead to stagnation in personal or professional growth.  

3. Can Do

Meaning:

These are optional tasks that you have the capacity to take on if time and energy permit. They are not urgent or crucial but can be rewarding.  

Application:

- Daily Activities: 

   - Leisure: Try a new hobby, watch a movie, or socialize.  

   - Work: Volunteer for additional responsibilities.  

   - Self-care: Meditate or journal if you feel inclined.  

Critique:

This category helps balance productivity with flexibility. However, avoid letting “can do” activities distract from “must do” or “should do” priorities.  

4. Desire to Do

Meaning:

These are your dreams, passions, or indulgences that bring joy and fulfillment. While not essential, they enrich your life.  

Application: 

- Daily Activities:

   - Personal: Work on a creative project, travel plans, or indulge in your favorite pastime.  

   - Career: Pursue an ambitious idea or entrepreneurial venture.  

   - Relationships: Plan meaningful experiences with loved ones.  

Critique:

While pursuing desires is fulfilling, it’s easy to overindulge in this category at the expense of other responsibilities. Strike a balance to ensure these goals align with your values and long-term aspirations. 

Final Thoughts for 2025 

Application:

- Balance is Key: Each category should be represented daily, but in varying proportions. Your “must do” tasks will naturally take precedence, while “desire to do” activities add color and excitement to your routine.  

- Prioritize Weekly: Use a planner or digital tool to group tasks under these categories and revisit them weekly to stay on track.  

- Flexibility: Be willing to shift tasks between categories as circumstances evolve. A “should do” today might become a “must do” tomorrow.  

With this thoughtful approach, you’re setting yourself up for a well-rounded, purpose-driven 2025.

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SLAVERY OF MEN BY WOMEN

A must READ for every MAN!

Every Man irrespective of who they are must read the book by a German writer ESTHER VILLAR the THE MANIPULATED MAN.

This BOOK has caused outrage and HOSTILE CRITICISM from women, it explains how women since the earliest times have MANIPULATED men and turned them into their SLAVES, they have PRETENDED to be the OPPRESSED s.£¥ while in the real sense they are the OPPRESSORS. 

She explains how a WOMAN manipulates a MAN skillfully by steps like COURTSHIP and finally MARRIAGE, hence the saying “a man chases a woman until SHE catches him”.

In her book she explains how the man is TRICKED to care for the woman all his LIFE and her offspring. 

He rolls the stone like SISYPHUS and in turn gets rewarded by a few minutes of s£xual PLEASURE. 

We can, by observing Esther Villars assertions that a man is a SLAVE of his DESIRES and the WOMAN uses and has used it for THOUSANDS of years as a stick and carrot to keep the man chasing VANITY and commit his life to SERVING her.

She goes ahead to explain the RIVALRY of WOMEN, how each woman feels the powerful urge and need to OWN a male for HERSELF. 

Like a SLAVE owner, she detests any move the MAN would make to offer his services to another woman. She uses all means to keep the man to herself and her offspring alone.

Esther Villar's sentiments are captured by Nigerian Poet, critic and writer, Chinweizu Ibekwe in his book, “The Anatomy of Female Power” (AFP) and  Will Farrel's, “The Predatory Female”. 

They all push the THEORY that all societies are MATRIARCHAL and not PATRIARCHAL as we are pushed and forced to believe. 

MATRIARCHY has ruled not through brawn but WITS and TRICKS; women feigning weakness to be protected etc. Thus the male becomes the most exploited s.£¥ in human history, (in wars the man is always ready to DIE for the woman; he has been trained to do that).

Chinweizu calls the idea of DATING and COURTSHIP, TRAINING, like that of a horse. It is during this time that a woman having kept the man on a LEASH by denying him s.£¥ and getting him addicted to her by FALSE charms, trains and breaks him to whatever she wants him to become.

The MARRIAGE celebration becomes a celebration for the woman and her friends, and they all congratulate HER for having succeeded in getting herself a SLAVE . 

A man on that WEDDING day waves goodbye to his INDEPENDENCE and his coalition of males and commits himself to a SISYPHEAN life, rolling the stone, an act he cannot abandon having SOCIETY and the GOVERNMENT checking on him and always ready to JAIL, SHAME or EXILE him for absconding his duties of SLAVERY. 

Thus, the government and SOCIETY helps the WOMAN in keeping her SLAVE (man) in check.

Chinweizu gives a narration of how women are trained by older matriarchs to TAME men. He explains how a man is trained to rely on women by his own mother. 

A man is SHAMED for cooking for himself and other domestic chores by his own mother who is an agent of the global matriarchal rule.

By getting the MAN to hate DOMESTIC works and having it enforced by culture which warns men against going into the kitchen, doing LAUNDRY etc. 

The mother trains his son for the woman who will captivate him and when the time comes she takes hold of the man's stomach and by getting the man addicted to her body she holds him by the two, in BED and in the KITCHEN. 

With those two weapons she manipulates the man and turns him into her plaything.

A noble piece which is a must read for every MAN under the globe.

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Summarized: By Sadiq Saad 

Why Mark Zuckerberg is richer than Ghana...

One Saturday, Dr Mensa Otabil Founder of the International Central Gospel Church infected and provoked a mass of young entrepreneurs with yet another signature performance, a destiny changing motivational message that will linger in the minds of many, for many years to come.

Otabil feels angry and insulted by the development because Zuckerberg, he reckoned, is not any more intelligent than the thousands of computer programmers in Ghana but the American has a better environment; a country of opportunities.

"What is the difference between Zuckerberg and you; Steve Jobs and you? Otabil asked rhetorically. "It is not brains, it is the environment," he answered sullenly.

Where is our travolator and sulfur-free onion?

The preacher man told a story of how he travelled out of the country and with the aid of a travolator he beat a young man to a walking contest. The man decided to speedwalk but used a travolator at some point. Even though the man heeled-and-toed with agility he could not beat Otabil because the travolator pushed him faster to his destination.

He told another story, he read in a book, of a US company seeking to grow onions that will not sting the eyes. For a man who had shed onion-stinging- tears in the past from his kitchen in Accra, he will certainly wonder how an American company will grow new species of onions without its notorious characteristic. But the 'useless' book he was reading in the plane suddenly became useful, revealing, that the new species of onions will be planted in a "non-sulfuric ground."

He learnt a new thing. Onions sting eyes because they are always grown and nurtured in a soil full of sulfur but the US company is coming with a new offer. "The reason why the onions will not sting people's eyes is because it was going to be grown in sulfur free soil."

"It is not the nature of onions to sting eyes. It is the environment it is nurtured in that makes it sting eyes.

"It struck me that a person can be so good but if he is planted in a wrong environment, he is going to turn up so bad," Otabil said.

He wondered how much sulfur was in the Ghanaian environment that made many dreams, business break down in tears.

"What have we put in the environment, in the soil that is killing the dream of young men and young women. How can people go to university and for years and not know what to do? How can people with potential not fulfill their potential?

"If you take a simple area like football, the greatest Ghanaian players now were all onions that were planted in a different soil. They had to go outside Ghana for their talents to become world class. Do you think if Michael Essien had continued playing in the Ghana league we will call his name? No! Is he talented? Yes.

No matter how big the dream is, Otabil says if the environment is without a travolator or a sulfur free soil, you will achieve something but ultimately you will become the village champion amongst global players.

"The challenge for nations like Ghana is not the challenge of talented citizens. It is the challenge of poisonous environment. An environment that has been poisoned by ordinariness, by mediocrity and sometimes by a clear agenda to destroy talents.

"And how can a nation be great when its systems are fighting the talent of its people? he asked.

It is good to dream because dream is free but fight to get a better environment for the dream to thrive, he challenged the young men and women.

"We have to force the politicians to start thinking of us; of our lives; our future and dreams. And the only way to do that is for you to start thinking not in party terms but in policy terms,"

"Because if that doesn't happen dreamers will die with their dreams not realised," he added.

What is your dream; fight for a better travolator and a sulfuric free soil, to make your dreams come to pass.

~ Mensa Otabil ~

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"From Power to Protest: Unpacking Why the NPP Lost Ghana's Recent Elections"

 The New Patriotic Party (NPP) losing the recent elections in Ghana could be attributed to several factors based on common political trends and voter behavior. Here are some candid thoughts:

1. Economic Challenges: Economic hardships, such as rising inflation, unemployment, and high cost of living, often lead to voter dissatisfaction. The NPP government was perceived as failing to address these issues , which led to eroded public trust. For instance, inflation rose up to 54℅ which eroded the people purchasing power and general cost of living. 

2. Corruption Allegations: Perceptions or allegations of corruption can significantly harm a ruling party’s image. If voters believed the NPP was involved in mismanagement or unethical practices, this might influenced their decision. There were several cases of corruption which the government failed to handle it. The most popular of them is the Madam Cecilia Dapaah case. 

3. Broken Campaign Promises: Failure to deliver on key campaign promises led to voter disillusionment. The citizens felt that the NPP did not fulfill its commitments,for which reasons they  opted for a change.

4. Leadership Fatigue: After years in power, some governments face "incumbency fatigue," where voters desire new leadership, regardless of performance. And this showed in the NPP government lackadaisical attitude solving problems. 

5. Effective Opposition Campaign: The opposition party may have run a strong campaign that highlighted the NPP's shortcomings and presented itself as a credible alternative.

6. Youth Discontent: Young voters in Ghana are a significant demographic. The NPP government was perceived as not addressing their needs—such as job creation, education, and technology investment—which cost them significant loss of votes especially in their strong hold ,Ashanti region. 

7. Regional Dynamics: Ghanaian elections often reflect regional voting patterns. A shift in loyalty in key regions have been detrimental to the NPP's overall performance.

8. External Factors: Global economic challenges, such as post-COVID recovery issues or the impact of international conflicts, might have exacerbated domestic problems, creating a perception that the government was not in control.

It is critical to analyze the post-election data and feedback to understand the root causes fully.