AN argument between teenagers over whether or not water in a nearby dam in Tamale is likely to get finished before this year’s rainy season has led to the death of one of them.
The deceased, Kassim Alhassan, 15, was allegedly stabbed by his 12-year-old colleague during a tussle between them after the argument turned violent.
The incident occurred about 8.30 pm last Sunday at the Old Cemetery Area, along the Builpela Road, a suburb of Tamale.
According to eyewitnesses, the teenagers were arguing over the possibility of water in the Builpela Dam, the major source of water for the people in the area, drying up before the onset of the rains.
The argument later degenerated into an open confrontation between the two who, the eyewitnesses said, might have also harboured something against each other.
A tussle was said to have ensued, which resulted in the 12-year-old boy falling to the ground. When he got up, he allegedly picked up a sharp knife that was in the tray of an orange seller and stabbed Alhassan in the abdomen.
Alhassan, who was a Class Six pupil of the United Primary School, was rushed to the Tamale Teaching Hospital, where he died.
His body has been deposited at the hospital morgue, while the suspected minor is assisting the Tamale Police in their investigations.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Monday, February 23, 2009
GHANAIANS COMMENDED FOR PEACEFUL ELECTION (PAGE 29)
THE Anbariya Sunni Community in Tamale has commended Ghanaians for ensuring a successful and peaceful general election in the country, in spite of the apparent tensions and apprehensions that characterised the campaigning.
“We believe that Ghana’s democracy has come of age and we have demonstrated that the country remains a beacon of hope on the African continent. For this reason, the government and the people of Ghana deserve commendation,” they stated.
The Spiritual Head and Leader of the Community, Sheikh Saeed Abubakar Zakaria, also congratulated the President, John Atta Mills and his Vice, Mr John Mahama for their elevation to the highest office of Presidency.
“We must, therefore, thank the Almighty for the peaceful elections and continue to pray and seek His guidance in the coming years; we must continuously pray to the Almighty to guide Ghana to the right path,” the leader admonished.
He further commended President Mills, who he described as humble, wise and God-fearing, will “not carry any stick of vendetta, but will allow the rule of law to work.”
“We are also calling on President Mills to create the condition that will enable Ghanaians to ask what they can do for Ghana and not what Ghana can do for them,” the leader indicated, adding that, “Ghanaians will be willing to sacrifice for the development of their country when they see honesty and dedication in the leadership.”
Sheikh Zakaria further prayed for Allah’s blessings and guidance for the President and his government; he also prayed for courage for the President to lead an exemplary life that would inspire the confidence of Ghanaians.
“We believe that Ghana’s democracy has come of age and we have demonstrated that the country remains a beacon of hope on the African continent. For this reason, the government and the people of Ghana deserve commendation,” they stated.
The Spiritual Head and Leader of the Community, Sheikh Saeed Abubakar Zakaria, also congratulated the President, John Atta Mills and his Vice, Mr John Mahama for their elevation to the highest office of Presidency.
“We must, therefore, thank the Almighty for the peaceful elections and continue to pray and seek His guidance in the coming years; we must continuously pray to the Almighty to guide Ghana to the right path,” the leader admonished.
He further commended President Mills, who he described as humble, wise and God-fearing, will “not carry any stick of vendetta, but will allow the rule of law to work.”
“We are also calling on President Mills to create the condition that will enable Ghanaians to ask what they can do for Ghana and not what Ghana can do for them,” the leader indicated, adding that, “Ghanaians will be willing to sacrifice for the development of their country when they see honesty and dedication in the leadership.”
Sheikh Zakaria further prayed for Allah’s blessings and guidance for the President and his government; he also prayed for courage for the President to lead an exemplary life that would inspire the confidence of Ghanaians.
INDISCRIMINATE POSTING OF BILLS WORRIES TAMALE (PAGE 28)
THE Tamale Metropolitan Assembly (TAMA) has expressed concern over the indiscriminate posting of bills on streetlights, road signs and buildings located around the central business district (CBD) of the Tamale metropolis.
The assembly observed that such acts generated a lot of waste in gutters and in drains along the CBD, and that whenever it rained, it created filth and undermined efforts at making the city clean.
The Head of Waste Management Department of the TAMA, Mr Abubakari Zakari, observed that, but for the commitment of the department and of other stakeholders towards the maintenance of a clean environment in the metropolis, the city would have been engulfed in filth, as a result of such indiscriminate posting of bills by some unscrupulous individuals.
“Event organisers are the worst offenders of such negative acts, which create a lot of nuisance in the metropolis; when they commit such acts, we don’t see them and so they go scot-free,” he stressed.
Mr Zakari equally expressed regret that the bills, after serving their purpose, were not removed by some event organisers, and that, he said, created a lot of problems for sanitary inspectors and sweepers of the city.
The Tamale Metropolitan Works Engineer, Mr Stephen Tecku, for his part, observed that political parties were the worst offenders and alleged that they posted bills on their political activities on road signs.
“When they do those things, it looks so ugly that my heart bleeds anytime I see such things; but unfortunately, we are unable to trace and arrest the perpetrators,” the engineer further noted.
He, therefore, suggested to the TAMA to establish community sign boards at vantage points in the CBD, where residents could easily locate them and were made aware of the events.
Mr Tecku also stressed the need for the assembly to charge such offending organisers to pay a token for posting of such bills.
Some residents have also condemned the act and urged event organisers to stop posting bills to help keep the metropolis clean.
They condemned the practice and said houseowners were not always consulted before such bills were posted on their buildings.
The assembly observed that such acts generated a lot of waste in gutters and in drains along the CBD, and that whenever it rained, it created filth and undermined efforts at making the city clean.
The Head of Waste Management Department of the TAMA, Mr Abubakari Zakari, observed that, but for the commitment of the department and of other stakeholders towards the maintenance of a clean environment in the metropolis, the city would have been engulfed in filth, as a result of such indiscriminate posting of bills by some unscrupulous individuals.
“Event organisers are the worst offenders of such negative acts, which create a lot of nuisance in the metropolis; when they commit such acts, we don’t see them and so they go scot-free,” he stressed.
Mr Zakari equally expressed regret that the bills, after serving their purpose, were not removed by some event organisers, and that, he said, created a lot of problems for sanitary inspectors and sweepers of the city.
The Tamale Metropolitan Works Engineer, Mr Stephen Tecku, for his part, observed that political parties were the worst offenders and alleged that they posted bills on their political activities on road signs.
“When they do those things, it looks so ugly that my heart bleeds anytime I see such things; but unfortunately, we are unable to trace and arrest the perpetrators,” the engineer further noted.
He, therefore, suggested to the TAMA to establish community sign boards at vantage points in the CBD, where residents could easily locate them and were made aware of the events.
Mr Tecku also stressed the need for the assembly to charge such offending organisers to pay a token for posting of such bills.
Some residents have also condemned the act and urged event organisers to stop posting bills to help keep the metropolis clean.
They condemned the practice and said houseowners were not always consulted before such bills were posted on their buildings.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
TAMALE POLICE ARREST VEHICLE WITH CARTRIDGES (BACK PAGE)
The Tamale police last Thursday night intercepted a vehicle on which they found live cartridges during a snap check at Lamashegu, a suburb of Tamale.
The 33 cartridges, which were concealed in a bag, included pieces of AAA Topmark and BB Super Hakon cartridges. The police had earlier retrieved some ammunition and an AK 47 rifle from some residents in the town.
According to the Northern Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Ofosu Mensa Gyeabour, the Peugeot car, with registration number AS 2637 V, which was heading towards town from the Kumasi Road, was intercepted during a routine snap check at about 8:20pm at Lamashegu.
The car was being driven by one Bombande Sulemana and when it was searched, the bag containing the cartridges was found. However, one Zakaria Abdul-Halik, who was also in the car, managed to escape.
The commander said his outfit was conducting further investigations into the matter and, therefore, appealed to the general public for their support to ensure law and order in the metropolis.
“In this regard, the general public is being encouraged to report all kinds of harassment and criminal activities to the police for prompt action,” he admonished.
Following last Tuesday clashes between some supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), security has been beefed up in the metropolis with the erection of snap checkpoints on various streets of Tamale where vehicles are searched by security personnel who have also stepped up their patrols of the area.
In the ensuing disturbances, one person died while several others sustained injuries. Some houses and properties were later burnt in the process.
So far 14 persons who were arrested in connection with the violence have appeared before the Tamale Circuit Court on Thursday where they were remanded in prison custody to appear again on March 4.
The 33 cartridges, which were concealed in a bag, included pieces of AAA Topmark and BB Super Hakon cartridges. The police had earlier retrieved some ammunition and an AK 47 rifle from some residents in the town.
According to the Northern Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Ofosu Mensa Gyeabour, the Peugeot car, with registration number AS 2637 V, which was heading towards town from the Kumasi Road, was intercepted during a routine snap check at about 8:20pm at Lamashegu.
The car was being driven by one Bombande Sulemana and when it was searched, the bag containing the cartridges was found. However, one Zakaria Abdul-Halik, who was also in the car, managed to escape.
The commander said his outfit was conducting further investigations into the matter and, therefore, appealed to the general public for their support to ensure law and order in the metropolis.
“In this regard, the general public is being encouraged to report all kinds of harassment and criminal activities to the police for prompt action,” he admonished.
Following last Tuesday clashes between some supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), security has been beefed up in the metropolis with the erection of snap checkpoints on various streets of Tamale where vehicles are searched by security personnel who have also stepped up their patrols of the area.
In the ensuing disturbances, one person died while several others sustained injuries. Some houses and properties were later burnt in the process.
So far 14 persons who were arrested in connection with the violence have appeared before the Tamale Circuit Court on Thursday where they were remanded in prison custody to appear again on March 4.
Friday, February 20, 2009
MEDIA MUST EXERCISE CAUTION — REGSEC (PAGE 3)
THE Northern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has cautioned media practitioners in the region, particularly the electronic media, to exercise caution in the discharge of their duties by ensuring effective internal control systems.
It also reminded the media to uphold the tenets of the profession by always ensuring that they did not only cross-check their stories before putting them out but also ensure they were selective in the people they hosted on various programmes and during phone-in sessions.
The council attributed the immediate cause of the recent disturbances in the Tamale metropolis to some unguarded statements by some panellists during a debate on radio.
It pointed out that following the discussions at a radio station, which it declined to mention, an argument ensued among some butchers at the central market over the issues discussed at the station and that later degenerated into the conflict and subsequent death of one man and the destruction of property.
Members of the REGSEC revealed this during a meeting with selected media organisations in Tamale on Wednesday.
According to the Deputy Northern Regional Police Commander, ACP P.A. Sarpong, the meeting had been necessitated by last Tuesday’s violent clashes between supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the metropolis.
In the process, one person, Abdul-Rashid Nashiru, lost his life, while many others sustained various degrees of injury.
ACP Sarpong further indicated that the arson that was recorded at some suburbs of the metropolis could be attributed to the news of Nashiru’s death that occurred around 1.30 a.m. on Wednesday.
On measures to ensure sanity in the metropolis, the commander revealed that “we are going to strengthen our presence in the metropolis and also increase our patrols of the suburbs.”
He appealed to the people to always volunteer information and also help in identifying perpetrators of violence, since that was the only way culprits could be apprehended and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent.
For his part, the Northern Regional Co-ordinating Director, Mr Joseph Mahama Dasana, called for more collaboration between the REGSEC and the media to help ensure peace in the area at all times.
As of the time of filing this story yesterday, 14 suspects who had been arrested in connection with the clashes were being prepared for court.
It also reminded the media to uphold the tenets of the profession by always ensuring that they did not only cross-check their stories before putting them out but also ensure they were selective in the people they hosted on various programmes and during phone-in sessions.
The council attributed the immediate cause of the recent disturbances in the Tamale metropolis to some unguarded statements by some panellists during a debate on radio.
It pointed out that following the discussions at a radio station, which it declined to mention, an argument ensued among some butchers at the central market over the issues discussed at the station and that later degenerated into the conflict and subsequent death of one man and the destruction of property.
Members of the REGSEC revealed this during a meeting with selected media organisations in Tamale on Wednesday.
According to the Deputy Northern Regional Police Commander, ACP P.A. Sarpong, the meeting had been necessitated by last Tuesday’s violent clashes between supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the metropolis.
In the process, one person, Abdul-Rashid Nashiru, lost his life, while many others sustained various degrees of injury.
ACP Sarpong further indicated that the arson that was recorded at some suburbs of the metropolis could be attributed to the news of Nashiru’s death that occurred around 1.30 a.m. on Wednesday.
On measures to ensure sanity in the metropolis, the commander revealed that “we are going to strengthen our presence in the metropolis and also increase our patrols of the suburbs.”
He appealed to the people to always volunteer information and also help in identifying perpetrators of violence, since that was the only way culprits could be apprehended and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent.
For his part, the Northern Regional Co-ordinating Director, Mr Joseph Mahama Dasana, called for more collaboration between the REGSEC and the media to help ensure peace in the area at all times.
As of the time of filing this story yesterday, 14 suspects who had been arrested in connection with the clashes were being prepared for court.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
YOUTH GROUPS CLASH IN TAMALE...One dead, 9 arrested (BACK PAGE)
ONE person died and several others got injured following a clash between youth groups believed to be sympathisers of the two major political parties, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), in Tamale last Tuesday night.
The deceased, Abdul-Rashid Nashiru, who passed away around 1:00am after sustaining gunshot on his jaw, is in the morgue of the Tamale Teaching Hospital. The deceased is said to be a sympathiser of the NDC.
Some of the injured persons have since been treated and discharged from the hospital. Those still on admission are Nuhu Fuseini, Mohammed Saaka, Ziblim Majeed and Kassim Yehuza.
So far, nine persons have been arrested by the police in connection with the violence. Their names are being withheld for security reasons.
Calm has, however, been restored to the metropolis after reported cases of arson at some suburbs, where some houses were burnt down.
The popular butchers shop at the Tamale Central Market was not spared the destruction as tables and stalls there belonging to a section of the butchers were equally burnt to the ground.
The situation has also slowed down businesses and social activities in the central business district of the metropolis as people were seen in groups discussing the violence.
There was, however, heavy security presence on patrol duties of the area to help nip any further disturbances in the bud.
According to the Tamale Metropolitan Commander of Police, ASP Abanga Caesar, investigations were ongoing to establish the actual cause of the disturbances that sparked off at about 8:00 p.m. last Tuesday.
He, however, indicated that a misunderstanding between some butchers at the central market later degenerated such political violence.
In a related development, the newly enskinned chief of Tamale, Dakpema Mohammed Alhassan Dawuni, has entreated the security agencies to, as a matter of urgency, arrest all perpetrators of the violence.
At a press conference in his palace yesterday, the chief condemned the violence and urged the security agencies to retrieve all illegal weapons in the possession of residents.
“I will like to advise the youth not to allow themselves to be used to cause violence at the least provocation. Tamale is not a jungle, but part of Ghana, where law and order must be allowed to operate,” Dakpema Dawuni stated.
He, however, assured residents of their safety and said everything possible would be done to normalise the situation and also ensure that peace and tranquillity prevailed at all times.
As of the time of filing the report yesterday, members of the Northern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) were locked up in a meeting.
The deceased, Abdul-Rashid Nashiru, who passed away around 1:00am after sustaining gunshot on his jaw, is in the morgue of the Tamale Teaching Hospital. The deceased is said to be a sympathiser of the NDC.
Some of the injured persons have since been treated and discharged from the hospital. Those still on admission are Nuhu Fuseini, Mohammed Saaka, Ziblim Majeed and Kassim Yehuza.
So far, nine persons have been arrested by the police in connection with the violence. Their names are being withheld for security reasons.
Calm has, however, been restored to the metropolis after reported cases of arson at some suburbs, where some houses were burnt down.
The popular butchers shop at the Tamale Central Market was not spared the destruction as tables and stalls there belonging to a section of the butchers were equally burnt to the ground.
The situation has also slowed down businesses and social activities in the central business district of the metropolis as people were seen in groups discussing the violence.
There was, however, heavy security presence on patrol duties of the area to help nip any further disturbances in the bud.
According to the Tamale Metropolitan Commander of Police, ASP Abanga Caesar, investigations were ongoing to establish the actual cause of the disturbances that sparked off at about 8:00 p.m. last Tuesday.
He, however, indicated that a misunderstanding between some butchers at the central market later degenerated such political violence.
In a related development, the newly enskinned chief of Tamale, Dakpema Mohammed Alhassan Dawuni, has entreated the security agencies to, as a matter of urgency, arrest all perpetrators of the violence.
At a press conference in his palace yesterday, the chief condemned the violence and urged the security agencies to retrieve all illegal weapons in the possession of residents.
“I will like to advise the youth not to allow themselves to be used to cause violence at the least provocation. Tamale is not a jungle, but part of Ghana, where law and order must be allowed to operate,” Dakpema Dawuni stated.
He, however, assured residents of their safety and said everything possible would be done to normalise the situation and also ensure that peace and tranquillity prevailed at all times.
As of the time of filing the report yesterday, members of the Northern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) were locked up in a meeting.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
NEW CHIEF FOR TAMALE (PAGE 18)
A NEW chief has been installed in Tamale. He is Dakpema Mohammed Alhassan Dawuni, 56.
The installation was carried out very peacefully on Friday, February 6 and was marked with much pomp and pageantry, amidst the display of the customs and cherished values of the people of Dagbon.
Social, commercial and economic activities in the metropolis, particularly in the central business district, came to a halt for almost the whole day.
The two major markets were closed down, while shops, stalls and stores were all locked up to pave way for the new chief, who was in dark glasses, and his wife as they were carried shoulder high as tradition demanded.
The Dakpema and his retinue of elders went round the central market and performed some customary rites for God’s blessings.
The chief was accompanied by a large crowd of enthusiastic followers, particularly women, who held Neem tree branches and sang and danced to gong-gong beats amidst the firing of musketry.
The grand ceremony attracted the attention of people from all walks of life, including foreign tourists who jostled with the celebrants to take shots of the newly installed Dakpema.
Later in an interview with the Daily Graphic, the chief mentioned unity, education and job creation as some of the issues he intended to dwell on during his reign.
He called for peaceful co-existence and advised the indigenes, especially the youth, to channel their energies into productive ventures and not engage in any violent acts at the least provocation.
Dakpema Dawuni also entreated parents and guardians to take the education of their children and wards serious by ensuring that they offered them the necessary support to complete their education.
He noted that the city was blessed with both human and material resources that could have a major impact on the growth of the area if all hands were put on deck.
The chief further intimated that contrarily to the negative perception some people had of the metropolis, Tamale was the hub of the proverbial Ghanaian hospitality, with a multiplicity of valued culture and traditions.
He, therefore, urged potential investors and visitors alike not to hesitate to relocate to the city to enjoy its warmth and business opportunities.
Until his enskinment, Dapkema Dawuni worked with the Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA), Tamale. He is also a farmer.
He succeeded the late Dakpema, Richard Alhassan, who died in September 2007 at the age of 81 after a short illness. Born in Tamale in August 1926, the late Dakpema was enskinned on February 20, 1967 and ruled for 40 years.
End.
The installation was carried out very peacefully on Friday, February 6 and was marked with much pomp and pageantry, amidst the display of the customs and cherished values of the people of Dagbon.
Social, commercial and economic activities in the metropolis, particularly in the central business district, came to a halt for almost the whole day.
The two major markets were closed down, while shops, stalls and stores were all locked up to pave way for the new chief, who was in dark glasses, and his wife as they were carried shoulder high as tradition demanded.
The Dakpema and his retinue of elders went round the central market and performed some customary rites for God’s blessings.
The chief was accompanied by a large crowd of enthusiastic followers, particularly women, who held Neem tree branches and sang and danced to gong-gong beats amidst the firing of musketry.
The grand ceremony attracted the attention of people from all walks of life, including foreign tourists who jostled with the celebrants to take shots of the newly installed Dakpema.
Later in an interview with the Daily Graphic, the chief mentioned unity, education and job creation as some of the issues he intended to dwell on during his reign.
He called for peaceful co-existence and advised the indigenes, especially the youth, to channel their energies into productive ventures and not engage in any violent acts at the least provocation.
Dakpema Dawuni also entreated parents and guardians to take the education of their children and wards serious by ensuring that they offered them the necessary support to complete their education.
He noted that the city was blessed with both human and material resources that could have a major impact on the growth of the area if all hands were put on deck.
The chief further intimated that contrarily to the negative perception some people had of the metropolis, Tamale was the hub of the proverbial Ghanaian hospitality, with a multiplicity of valued culture and traditions.
He, therefore, urged potential investors and visitors alike not to hesitate to relocate to the city to enjoy its warmth and business opportunities.
Until his enskinment, Dapkema Dawuni worked with the Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA), Tamale. He is also a farmer.
He succeeded the late Dakpema, Richard Alhassan, who died in September 2007 at the age of 81 after a short illness. Born in Tamale in August 1926, the late Dakpema was enskinned on February 20, 1967 and ruled for 40 years.
End.
MTTU, NRSC ENFORCE USE OF SEAT BELTS (PAGE 18)
THE failure by most motorists in the Tamale metropolis to use seat belts and crash helmets is a major source of worry to law enforcement agencies and other implementors of road traffic regulations in the metropolis.
Awareness level on their usage is still low among passengers, drivers and riders, in spite of the numerous road safety campaigns embarked upon by the Motor Traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU) of the Ghana Police Service and the National Road Safety Commission (NRSC) in the area.
Indeed, the reasons some vehicle occupants give for their refusal or inability to use seat belts in their vehicles are incomprehensible.
They often complain that the seat belts make driving uncomfortable. Others give funny excuses to the effect that their seat belts are dirty and so they will soil their attire when they use them.
Some vehicle occupants also hold the view that the seat belts may trap them in the vehicles in case of any accident, while others say they feel “lazy” to use the belts.
Motorbike riders, some of whom ironically hang their crash helmets on their bikes while riding, also offer the same reason — they are not comfortable wearing the helmets that will eventually help protect their lives in the event of an accident.
According to the Northern Regional Co-ordinator of the NRSC, Mr Sumani Mbo, the new Road Traffic Act 683 of 2004 stipulated that any person of 18 years and above, whether a driver or vehicle occupant, caught not using the seat belt contravened the law, for which reason such a person would be prosecuted
“In fact, seat belts provide security and safety so that in the event of an accident or a crash the vehicle occupant will not be thrown out of the vehicle or he will be protected from hitting any part of his or her body against any object in the vehicle,” he explained.
Although the co-ordinator could not readily provide statistics to show the extent of safety the facility guaranteed a vehicle occupant, he emphasised that people who got involved in accidents and were in seat belts had higher chances of survival than those who failed to use the facility.
The Regional MTTU Commander, Nana Kumi, noted that the use of seat belts was yet to catch on with the people, compared with the use of mobile phones.
“People will have to choose between comfortability and safety, and I hope accident victims can narrate their experiences to others,” added.
It is for these reasons that the MTTU and the regional NRSC have mounted an exercise to enforce the law in the metropolis this week.
Nana Kumi indicated that as much as personnel from his outfit were intensifying their educational campaigns, he appealed to opinion leaders and politicians to support them in the law enforcement exercise by not coming to plead for the release of suspects at the least opportunity.
Awareness level on their usage is still low among passengers, drivers and riders, in spite of the numerous road safety campaigns embarked upon by the Motor Traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU) of the Ghana Police Service and the National Road Safety Commission (NRSC) in the area.
Indeed, the reasons some vehicle occupants give for their refusal or inability to use seat belts in their vehicles are incomprehensible.
They often complain that the seat belts make driving uncomfortable. Others give funny excuses to the effect that their seat belts are dirty and so they will soil their attire when they use them.
Some vehicle occupants also hold the view that the seat belts may trap them in the vehicles in case of any accident, while others say they feel “lazy” to use the belts.
Motorbike riders, some of whom ironically hang their crash helmets on their bikes while riding, also offer the same reason — they are not comfortable wearing the helmets that will eventually help protect their lives in the event of an accident.
According to the Northern Regional Co-ordinator of the NRSC, Mr Sumani Mbo, the new Road Traffic Act 683 of 2004 stipulated that any person of 18 years and above, whether a driver or vehicle occupant, caught not using the seat belt contravened the law, for which reason such a person would be prosecuted
“In fact, seat belts provide security and safety so that in the event of an accident or a crash the vehicle occupant will not be thrown out of the vehicle or he will be protected from hitting any part of his or her body against any object in the vehicle,” he explained.
Although the co-ordinator could not readily provide statistics to show the extent of safety the facility guaranteed a vehicle occupant, he emphasised that people who got involved in accidents and were in seat belts had higher chances of survival than those who failed to use the facility.
The Regional MTTU Commander, Nana Kumi, noted that the use of seat belts was yet to catch on with the people, compared with the use of mobile phones.
“People will have to choose between comfortability and safety, and I hope accident victims can narrate their experiences to others,” added.
It is for these reasons that the MTTU and the regional NRSC have mounted an exercise to enforce the law in the metropolis this week.
Nana Kumi indicated that as much as personnel from his outfit were intensifying their educational campaigns, he appealed to opinion leaders and politicians to support them in the law enforcement exercise by not coming to plead for the release of suspects at the least opportunity.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
NGO ORGANISES COURSE ELECTRICAL TECHNICIANS (PAGE 35)
NEW Energy, a Tamale-based NGO, in collaboration with DENG Solar Training Centre (DSTC), has organised a course for electrical technicians in Tamale to build up their capacity in solar energy conservation practices.
The week-long programme brought together participants from the Northern, Upper East and Brong Ahafo regions. They were taken through installation, maintenance and Stand Alone power system techniques. Samuel Adu-Asare of the DSTC indicated that the programme marked the beginning of such courses that would be organised later in the year.
He noted that such training exercises had often been centred in southern Ghana “but this time round we have decided to extend our services to the north where more installation of solar systems are ongoing”.
According to Mr Adu-Asare, the DSTC was established in 2005 with technical collaboration from the Global Sustainable Energy Solutions of Australia and the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Agriculture of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.
The programme manager of New Energy, Mr Imoro Shaibu, explained that his outfit, which started operations in the Northern Region in 1995 in the area of water and sanitation, had now expanded to energy, environment and sustainable livelihoods.
He said in the energy sector, his organisation had been promoting the safer use of solar energy, wood fuel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas in its operational areas in the Northern and Brong Ahafo regions.
“We have also supported the setting up of three solar small businesses to provide LPG and wood stoves services in educational institutions in the four northern regions including Brong Ahafo,” he stated.
Mr Shaibu further explained that the organisation had the aim of developing the northern part of the country through improving the socio-economic lives of the people.
The week-long programme brought together participants from the Northern, Upper East and Brong Ahafo regions. They were taken through installation, maintenance and Stand Alone power system techniques. Samuel Adu-Asare of the DSTC indicated that the programme marked the beginning of such courses that would be organised later in the year.
He noted that such training exercises had often been centred in southern Ghana “but this time round we have decided to extend our services to the north where more installation of solar systems are ongoing”.
According to Mr Adu-Asare, the DSTC was established in 2005 with technical collaboration from the Global Sustainable Energy Solutions of Australia and the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Agriculture of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.
The programme manager of New Energy, Mr Imoro Shaibu, explained that his outfit, which started operations in the Northern Region in 1995 in the area of water and sanitation, had now expanded to energy, environment and sustainable livelihoods.
He said in the energy sector, his organisation had been promoting the safer use of solar energy, wood fuel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas in its operational areas in the Northern and Brong Ahafo regions.
“We have also supported the setting up of three solar small businesses to provide LPG and wood stoves services in educational institutions in the four northern regions including Brong Ahafo,” he stated.
Mr Shaibu further explained that the organisation had the aim of developing the northern part of the country through improving the socio-economic lives of the people.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
KUSASI YOUTH ASSOCIATION COMMENDS PRESIDENT MILLS (PAGE 13)
THE Kusasi Youth Association (KYA) has commended President Atta Mills for the wisdom and humility he has exhibited since his assumption of office.
“Your humility in victory is legendary; yours clearly demonstrates that gaining political power is for service and not for glory. We appreciate your desire that the NDC government will be a government for all and we note your commitment that the poor and most vulnerable will enjoy some relief during your tenure,” the association stated.
In a statement signed by the Secretary of the association, Mr E.A. Abanga, and issued to the press in Tamale, the association also commended Prof. Mills for demonstrating to Ghanaians that one could win an election without promoting violence, intimidation and mudslinging.
It further observed that despite the obstacles he faced in his campaign, the President remained gentle and focused on one thing: To win and bring hope and prosperity to the under-privileged people of Ghana.
“Your overwhelming victory in eight out of the 10 regions of Ghana is testimony that you have a clear and clean mandate from the people, for which reason we must congratulate you,” the statement added.
It explained that the association comprised the youth of Kusaug from the Bawku Traditional Area that covers Bawku West, Zebilla, Binduri, Bawku Central, Pusiga and Garu-Tempane.
It also expressed appreciation to the President for nominating capable persons from the Upper East Region to serve in his government.
On the protracted conflict in Bawku, the statement noted that there were still some elements in the area who were bent on disturbing the peace and subjecting the people to unnecessary suffering.
“We believe strongly that for you the rule of law is not a cliché but a necessary tool for peace and development; we know you will not hesitate to apply the rule of law swiftly and justly in Bawku,” the association noted.
It also urged President Mills not to be distracted by those calling on the government to go strictly by the tenets of its manifesto because “manifestos are intentions and should not constrain governments when events render such intentions impotent”.
“Your humility in victory is legendary; yours clearly demonstrates that gaining political power is for service and not for glory. We appreciate your desire that the NDC government will be a government for all and we note your commitment that the poor and most vulnerable will enjoy some relief during your tenure,” the association stated.
In a statement signed by the Secretary of the association, Mr E.A. Abanga, and issued to the press in Tamale, the association also commended Prof. Mills for demonstrating to Ghanaians that one could win an election without promoting violence, intimidation and mudslinging.
It further observed that despite the obstacles he faced in his campaign, the President remained gentle and focused on one thing: To win and bring hope and prosperity to the under-privileged people of Ghana.
“Your overwhelming victory in eight out of the 10 regions of Ghana is testimony that you have a clear and clean mandate from the people, for which reason we must congratulate you,” the statement added.
It explained that the association comprised the youth of Kusaug from the Bawku Traditional Area that covers Bawku West, Zebilla, Binduri, Bawku Central, Pusiga and Garu-Tempane.
It also expressed appreciation to the President for nominating capable persons from the Upper East Region to serve in his government.
On the protracted conflict in Bawku, the statement noted that there were still some elements in the area who were bent on disturbing the peace and subjecting the people to unnecessary suffering.
“We believe strongly that for you the rule of law is not a cliché but a necessary tool for peace and development; we know you will not hesitate to apply the rule of law swiftly and justly in Bawku,” the association noted.
It also urged President Mills not to be distracted by those calling on the government to go strictly by the tenets of its manifesto because “manifestos are intentions and should not constrain governments when events render such intentions impotent”.
Friday, February 6, 2009
UDS SCHOOL OF MEDICINE INDUCTS STUDENTS (PAGE 11)
THE School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS) of the University for Development Studies (UDS) has inducted its first batch of students at the Tamale campus of the university.
The school will adopt a new approach, problem-based learning (PBL), a training methodology which is in line with the university’s categorical and unique mandate of preparing health professionals and scientists with the right beliefs and attitudes.
A governing board, under the chairmanship of Professor Mumuni Dacobo, had earlier been sworn into office to help manage the affairs of the school.
The induction of the 31 students followed approval by the National Accreditation Board (NAB) and the Ghana Medical and Dental Council (GMDC).
Until now, Human Biology students of the UDS were taking their clinical training at the medical schools of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi and the University of Ghana, Legon, at very high cost. Four groups of UDS students have already graduated from those sister universities.
At the induction ceremony, the acting Vice-Chancellor of the UDS, Professor Kaku Sagary Nokoe, said the gesture was not sustainable in the long term.
He explained that for the past two years the UDS-SMHS had been evaluated by various stakeholders and professional bodies, including the NAB and GMDC.
He mentioned the refurbishment of the Tamale Teaching Hospital and other district health facilities, including a possible addition of a new specialist teaching hospital at the Tamale campus of the SMHS.
Professor Nokoe disclosed that equipment worth over US$80,000 to equip the laboratory of the school had already arrived in the country. That had been made possible through collaboration between the government of Ghana and the World Bank.
According to him, the number of physicians per population of 1,000 in Ghana was as low as 0.1, as against 0.5 for low- income countries and 2.9 for high-income countries.
“In Northern Ghana, the situation is even worse. We believe we have found a solution to take these first independent steps by adopting the integrative PBL methodology which enables us to train the doctors to be immediately relevant,” he stated.
The Chairman of the governing board congratulated the students and urged them to be serious with their studies.
He described facilities at the Tamale Teaching Hospital as woefully inadequate and appealed to the government to give it immediate attention.
The school will adopt a new approach, problem-based learning (PBL), a training methodology which is in line with the university’s categorical and unique mandate of preparing health professionals and scientists with the right beliefs and attitudes.
A governing board, under the chairmanship of Professor Mumuni Dacobo, had earlier been sworn into office to help manage the affairs of the school.
The induction of the 31 students followed approval by the National Accreditation Board (NAB) and the Ghana Medical and Dental Council (GMDC).
Until now, Human Biology students of the UDS were taking their clinical training at the medical schools of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi and the University of Ghana, Legon, at very high cost. Four groups of UDS students have already graduated from those sister universities.
At the induction ceremony, the acting Vice-Chancellor of the UDS, Professor Kaku Sagary Nokoe, said the gesture was not sustainable in the long term.
He explained that for the past two years the UDS-SMHS had been evaluated by various stakeholders and professional bodies, including the NAB and GMDC.
He mentioned the refurbishment of the Tamale Teaching Hospital and other district health facilities, including a possible addition of a new specialist teaching hospital at the Tamale campus of the SMHS.
Professor Nokoe disclosed that equipment worth over US$80,000 to equip the laboratory of the school had already arrived in the country. That had been made possible through collaboration between the government of Ghana and the World Bank.
According to him, the number of physicians per population of 1,000 in Ghana was as low as 0.1, as against 0.5 for low- income countries and 2.9 for high-income countries.
“In Northern Ghana, the situation is even worse. We believe we have found a solution to take these first independent steps by adopting the integrative PBL methodology which enables us to train the doctors to be immediately relevant,” he stated.
The Chairman of the governing board congratulated the students and urged them to be serious with their studies.
He described facilities at the Tamale Teaching Hospital as woefully inadequate and appealed to the government to give it immediate attention.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
SEVEN FILE TO CONTEST COUNCIL OF STATE IN NR (PAGE 13)
SEVEN persons have filed their nominations with the Electoral Commission to contest for the Council of State membership in the Northern Region. Nominations closed on January 27.
The contestants are Alhaji Issah Goodman, Mahama Alidu Ahmed and Margaret Assibi Iddrisu. The rest are the Moglaa Chief, Na Sumaila Ben Alhassan, Kpan-Na Mohammed Baba Bawah and Thomas B. Sennor.
According to the Northern Regional Director of the EC, Mr Sylvester Kanyi, membership of the Council of State is a constitutional requirement where citizens above 18 years could apply to contest and represent their respective regions.
He explained that Members of the Council served as advisers to the President for which reason they must be knowledgeable, patriotic and hardworking.
Mr Kanyi said the constitution demanded that each region elected one person to represent it on the council and that apart from the former Inspector General of Police, Chief Justice, Chief of Defence staff and the 10 representatives from each region, the President would also appoint 11 others who have excelled in various academic, political, social and human rights fields to bring their expertise to bear on the efficiency of the council.
The elections will be conducted on February 10, 2009 at the EC Regional Office in Tamale. Two representatives each from all districts in the region will vote to elect the region’s Council of State Member.
The contestants are Alhaji Issah Goodman, Mahama Alidu Ahmed and Margaret Assibi Iddrisu. The rest are the Moglaa Chief, Na Sumaila Ben Alhassan, Kpan-Na Mohammed Baba Bawah and Thomas B. Sennor.
According to the Northern Regional Director of the EC, Mr Sylvester Kanyi, membership of the Council of State is a constitutional requirement where citizens above 18 years could apply to contest and represent their respective regions.
He explained that Members of the Council served as advisers to the President for which reason they must be knowledgeable, patriotic and hardworking.
Mr Kanyi said the constitution demanded that each region elected one person to represent it on the council and that apart from the former Inspector General of Police, Chief Justice, Chief of Defence staff and the 10 representatives from each region, the President would also appoint 11 others who have excelled in various academic, political, social and human rights fields to bring their expertise to bear on the efficiency of the council.
The elections will be conducted on February 10, 2009 at the EC Regional Office in Tamale. Two representatives each from all districts in the region will vote to elect the region’s Council of State Member.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
FOREIGN UNIVERSITIES TO PARTNER UDS (PAGE 11)
SOME foreign universities have expressed interest to partner the University for Development Studies (UDS) to promote effective teaching and learning for their mutual benefit.
The institutions include the Kentucky State University of the United States of America (USA); the University for Applied Sciences, Germany; Cambridge University, United Kingdom; and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA.
The agreement with the Kentucky University involves an exchange programme between the University’s School of Social Work/Criminal Justice and the UDS.
It will offer opportunities for the students to learn about and experience new and diverse environments within which they can study while expanding their professional and personal perspectives based on various academic majors and focus of study.
According to the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the UDS, Professor David Millar, authorities of both universities were collaborating to fashion modalities for the commencement of the programme.
He said the partnership with the University for Applied Sciences would include the training and establishment of e-learning systems, support for lecturers in doctoral programmes and the facilitation of admissions and grants, as well as setting up of student exchange initiatives between the two institutions of higher learning.
Professor Millar indicated that the first phase of the programme that will begin this year is expected to end in 2012 after which co-ordinators of the project and representatives from the two universities would meet to review and discuss the future of the collaboration.
The Cambridge University and the MIT programmes involve a three-way collaborative partnership with the UDS under which a proposed Master’s degree in Development Practice (Infrastructural Delivery) would be established.
The two-year course aims at training students with science and engineering backgrounds as specialists in sustainable development with multi-cultural and disciplinary competencies.
The programme will be delivered through novel multi-university collaborations among the three universities in partnership with universities in the Global South.
The first of such alliances will commence in Africa with the UDS and will subsequently be expanded to include universities in Latin America and South-East Asia.
This new degree will build on the existing complementary Master’s programmes of the three institutions while at the same time offering new directions.
In May last year, the UDS entered into partnership with the Galilee College of Israel in such academic areas, including training in applied sciences.
The institutions include the Kentucky State University of the United States of America (USA); the University for Applied Sciences, Germany; Cambridge University, United Kingdom; and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA.
The agreement with the Kentucky University involves an exchange programme between the University’s School of Social Work/Criminal Justice and the UDS.
It will offer opportunities for the students to learn about and experience new and diverse environments within which they can study while expanding their professional and personal perspectives based on various academic majors and focus of study.
According to the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the UDS, Professor David Millar, authorities of both universities were collaborating to fashion modalities for the commencement of the programme.
He said the partnership with the University for Applied Sciences would include the training and establishment of e-learning systems, support for lecturers in doctoral programmes and the facilitation of admissions and grants, as well as setting up of student exchange initiatives between the two institutions of higher learning.
Professor Millar indicated that the first phase of the programme that will begin this year is expected to end in 2012 after which co-ordinators of the project and representatives from the two universities would meet to review and discuss the future of the collaboration.
The Cambridge University and the MIT programmes involve a three-way collaborative partnership with the UDS under which a proposed Master’s degree in Development Practice (Infrastructural Delivery) would be established.
The two-year course aims at training students with science and engineering backgrounds as specialists in sustainable development with multi-cultural and disciplinary competencies.
The programme will be delivered through novel multi-university collaborations among the three universities in partnership with universities in the Global South.
The first of such alliances will commence in Africa with the UDS and will subsequently be expanded to include universities in Latin America and South-East Asia.
This new degree will build on the existing complementary Master’s programmes of the three institutions while at the same time offering new directions.
In May last year, the UDS entered into partnership with the Galilee College of Israel in such academic areas, including training in applied sciences.
Monday, February 2, 2009
EXPECTATIONS OF NEW GOVERNMENT ...Views from Tamale (MIRROR, PAGE 35)
AWAL SIKENA
Trader
My main concern is for the government to ensure that the peace we are currently enjoying in this area is maintained and jealously protected so that we can go about our businesses without any interruptions.
I also appeal to the President to act with urgency to protect our borders from smugglers who bring inferior goods into the country to sell. This practice is seriously affecting local businesses.
Another area of concern to me is the sustainability of the National Health Insurance Scheme. I will like the government to improve on the system as President Mills promised in his campaigns.
Another significant sector I will want the government to pay attention to is education. Apart from putting up additional school infrastructure, I expect that teachers would be well motivated, while books and other teaching and learning materials are also made available for effective teaching and learning.
KUBURA ALHASSAN
Trader
It is my prayer that Allah gives President Mills good health, strength and the wisdom to steer the affairs of the nation and to help improve on our fortunes.
I implore him to come out with laudable initiatives and programmes that can help unite this country and also accelerate our development.
For us petty traders, we entreat the government to support us with credit facilities and marketing opportunities to enable us sell our wares.
The constant harassment by officials of the Metro Assembly who sack us from the locations we trade without providing alternative places for us is not good.
The government should put in place security measures to ensure that armed robbery becomes a thing of the past. The Yendi chieftaincy crisis must be addressed and all efforts must be made to apprehend those who were behind the disturbances that led to the gruesome murder of the Ya-Na and his retinue of elders.
The killers of Alhaji Issah Mobilla and the recent Gushiegu mayhem that led to the murder of three persons must also be thoroughly investigated.
GARIBA IBRAHIM
Media
Consultant
The manifesto of the new government contains a lot of programmes which when adhered to will turn the country around.
I will therefore entreat the government to endeavour to abide by its own manifesto to meet the aspirations of the people.
Indeed, I expect good governance to be the cornerstone of the President Mills-led administration. The government must also fulfil its promise to create a special fund for accelerated development of the North, which is the most deprived in the country.
Development cannot thrive without peace. It is for this reason that I appeal to President Mills to do everything possible to ensure that solutions are found to the protracted Dagbon chieftaincy crisis that is hanging like an albatross around our necks. Because whether we like it or not what pertains in Dagbon affects the entire north, either positively or negatively. I hope that the people will also offer the necessary support and cooperation to the government to realise this objective.
Another area I would like the government to pay attention to is the appointment and supervision of ministers and district chief executives. They should be supervised closely and the errant ones amongst them called to order.
Indeed, I have been impressed by the humility and sincerity of the President in some of the decisions he has so far taken. I appeal to Ghanaians not to rush him, but to exercise patience as he prepares his team to begin actual work.
HANNAH DZEKOE
Intern, RAINS, Tamale
CHANGE is good only when it is in the right direction and the implementation of what constitutes the change is made obvious to the people who effected the change.
Even though my expectations of the government are high, I think Ghanaians have to be patient and give it the needed support and cooperation to put things in order to enable it deliver on its promises to the electorate.
First, I will like the government to take a critical look at the economy which we learn is not in a very good shape. I expect that measures will be taken to bring the economy back on track in such a way that the pace of development of the country will be accelerated without dislocating our financial standings.
Secondly, the government should take measures to improve on infrastructure, especially in educational institutions and support the growth of science and technology.
Another area of importance is the private sector which must be strengthened to offer job opportunities to the teeming unemployed youth. Additionally, local industries must be protected from unfair competitions, particularly in the agricultural and textile industry. This will encourage Ghanaians to appreciate and consume our locally manufactured products.
The National Health Insurance Scheme is another sector that I would like the new government to improve upon.
Potable water should also be made available to deprived communities to guard against the contraction of water-borne diseases.
I expect the security of the nation to be strengthened in all parts of the country and especially at flash points where there are chieftaincy and land related disputes. The Dagbon chieftaincy dispute must immediately be investigated and those found culpable brought to book.
ADAM ABDUL-KADIRI
Vendor
I expect the new government to put in place a policy that will ensure that all children are encouraged to go to school.
Those who cannot continue their education due to some reasons must also be assisted to learn a trade or vocation.
Unemployment is the main problem confronting us in this part of the country due to the lack of industries and other job opportunities. I, therefore, appeal to President Mills to create job opportunities for us so that we are not forced to migrate down south to look for menial jobs.
It is in this direction that the National Youth Employment Policy needs strengthening and expansion to make it cover more people who would contribute their quota to national development while earning some money to live by.
Finally, a lasting and permanent solution should be found to the Dagbon chieftaincy problem to ensure total peace, a precondition for attracting the much needed investment into this area so that our lives would be improved.
AMPONSAH YAW ERIC
Student, University for Development Studies (UDS), Nyankpala
I think the coming of the NDC is an indication that the people of Ghana have confidence in the NDC’s vision of creating more jobs, investing in people, expanding infrastructure and improving the economy.
It is therefore important for Professor Mills’s administration to implement programmes that would enable it realise these goals.
I specifically expect the government to be equitable and fair in the development of all the public universities in the country.
The University for Development Studies (UDS), a premium university in agricultural and development studies, is seriously under-resourced and this affects academic studies.
The Nyankpala Campus of the university, for instance, lacks water, furniture, lecture halls, roads, books, and computer facilities.
The NDC administration should, therefore, place premium on improving facilities in public universities that are disadvantaged so they can churn out fully-fledged graduates for the job market.
ADAMS KALEO
BERTINUS
Tutor, Tamale
Training College
BRIDGING the wide gap between the northern and the southern parts, opening up of local industries, revamping of collapsed industries and companies such as the Ghana Cotton Company and establishing an industry to cater for the sheanut sector are some of the things I want the government to look at.
The new government should also expand infrastructure including those in the educational sector.
I also look forward to the construction of more irrigation and storage facilities as well as the introduction of incentives for sheanut and cotton farmers just like that being done for their colleagues in the cocoa and coffee sectors.
On the road sector, the construction and tarring of unmotorable roads must be attended to without delay to ensure free movement of people, goods and services.
More schools, including teacher training institutions should be established while existing and dilapidated ones are rehabilitated, particularly in the north where there are few educational facilities.
The government should release scholarships and grants to schools in the north early to forestall the practice in the past where their continuous delay resulted in the late re-opening of the schools and early closures.
Trader
My main concern is for the government to ensure that the peace we are currently enjoying in this area is maintained and jealously protected so that we can go about our businesses without any interruptions.
I also appeal to the President to act with urgency to protect our borders from smugglers who bring inferior goods into the country to sell. This practice is seriously affecting local businesses.
Another area of concern to me is the sustainability of the National Health Insurance Scheme. I will like the government to improve on the system as President Mills promised in his campaigns.
Another significant sector I will want the government to pay attention to is education. Apart from putting up additional school infrastructure, I expect that teachers would be well motivated, while books and other teaching and learning materials are also made available for effective teaching and learning.
KUBURA ALHASSAN
Trader
It is my prayer that Allah gives President Mills good health, strength and the wisdom to steer the affairs of the nation and to help improve on our fortunes.
I implore him to come out with laudable initiatives and programmes that can help unite this country and also accelerate our development.
For us petty traders, we entreat the government to support us with credit facilities and marketing opportunities to enable us sell our wares.
The constant harassment by officials of the Metro Assembly who sack us from the locations we trade without providing alternative places for us is not good.
The government should put in place security measures to ensure that armed robbery becomes a thing of the past. The Yendi chieftaincy crisis must be addressed and all efforts must be made to apprehend those who were behind the disturbances that led to the gruesome murder of the Ya-Na and his retinue of elders.
The killers of Alhaji Issah Mobilla and the recent Gushiegu mayhem that led to the murder of three persons must also be thoroughly investigated.
GARIBA IBRAHIM
Media
Consultant
The manifesto of the new government contains a lot of programmes which when adhered to will turn the country around.
I will therefore entreat the government to endeavour to abide by its own manifesto to meet the aspirations of the people.
Indeed, I expect good governance to be the cornerstone of the President Mills-led administration. The government must also fulfil its promise to create a special fund for accelerated development of the North, which is the most deprived in the country.
Development cannot thrive without peace. It is for this reason that I appeal to President Mills to do everything possible to ensure that solutions are found to the protracted Dagbon chieftaincy crisis that is hanging like an albatross around our necks. Because whether we like it or not what pertains in Dagbon affects the entire north, either positively or negatively. I hope that the people will also offer the necessary support and cooperation to the government to realise this objective.
Another area I would like the government to pay attention to is the appointment and supervision of ministers and district chief executives. They should be supervised closely and the errant ones amongst them called to order.
Indeed, I have been impressed by the humility and sincerity of the President in some of the decisions he has so far taken. I appeal to Ghanaians not to rush him, but to exercise patience as he prepares his team to begin actual work.
HANNAH DZEKOE
Intern, RAINS, Tamale
CHANGE is good only when it is in the right direction and the implementation of what constitutes the change is made obvious to the people who effected the change.
Even though my expectations of the government are high, I think Ghanaians have to be patient and give it the needed support and cooperation to put things in order to enable it deliver on its promises to the electorate.
First, I will like the government to take a critical look at the economy which we learn is not in a very good shape. I expect that measures will be taken to bring the economy back on track in such a way that the pace of development of the country will be accelerated without dislocating our financial standings.
Secondly, the government should take measures to improve on infrastructure, especially in educational institutions and support the growth of science and technology.
Another area of importance is the private sector which must be strengthened to offer job opportunities to the teeming unemployed youth. Additionally, local industries must be protected from unfair competitions, particularly in the agricultural and textile industry. This will encourage Ghanaians to appreciate and consume our locally manufactured products.
The National Health Insurance Scheme is another sector that I would like the new government to improve upon.
Potable water should also be made available to deprived communities to guard against the contraction of water-borne diseases.
I expect the security of the nation to be strengthened in all parts of the country and especially at flash points where there are chieftaincy and land related disputes. The Dagbon chieftaincy dispute must immediately be investigated and those found culpable brought to book.
ADAM ABDUL-KADIRI
Vendor
I expect the new government to put in place a policy that will ensure that all children are encouraged to go to school.
Those who cannot continue their education due to some reasons must also be assisted to learn a trade or vocation.
Unemployment is the main problem confronting us in this part of the country due to the lack of industries and other job opportunities. I, therefore, appeal to President Mills to create job opportunities for us so that we are not forced to migrate down south to look for menial jobs.
It is in this direction that the National Youth Employment Policy needs strengthening and expansion to make it cover more people who would contribute their quota to national development while earning some money to live by.
Finally, a lasting and permanent solution should be found to the Dagbon chieftaincy problem to ensure total peace, a precondition for attracting the much needed investment into this area so that our lives would be improved.
AMPONSAH YAW ERIC
Student, University for Development Studies (UDS), Nyankpala
I think the coming of the NDC is an indication that the people of Ghana have confidence in the NDC’s vision of creating more jobs, investing in people, expanding infrastructure and improving the economy.
It is therefore important for Professor Mills’s administration to implement programmes that would enable it realise these goals.
I specifically expect the government to be equitable and fair in the development of all the public universities in the country.
The University for Development Studies (UDS), a premium university in agricultural and development studies, is seriously under-resourced and this affects academic studies.
The Nyankpala Campus of the university, for instance, lacks water, furniture, lecture halls, roads, books, and computer facilities.
The NDC administration should, therefore, place premium on improving facilities in public universities that are disadvantaged so they can churn out fully-fledged graduates for the job market.
ADAMS KALEO
BERTINUS
Tutor, Tamale
Training College
BRIDGING the wide gap between the northern and the southern parts, opening up of local industries, revamping of collapsed industries and companies such as the Ghana Cotton Company and establishing an industry to cater for the sheanut sector are some of the things I want the government to look at.
The new government should also expand infrastructure including those in the educational sector.
I also look forward to the construction of more irrigation and storage facilities as well as the introduction of incentives for sheanut and cotton farmers just like that being done for their colleagues in the cocoa and coffee sectors.
On the road sector, the construction and tarring of unmotorable roads must be attended to without delay to ensure free movement of people, goods and services.
More schools, including teacher training institutions should be established while existing and dilapidated ones are rehabilitated, particularly in the north where there are few educational facilities.
The government should release scholarships and grants to schools in the north early to forestall the practice in the past where their continuous delay resulted in the late re-opening of the schools and early closures.
RALLY BEHIND NEW GOVETNMENT — DASA (PAGE 14)
THE Dagbon Students Association (DASA) at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has appealed to Ghanaians to rally behind the new government to accelerate the pace of development in the country as the elections are now over.
“We recognise that in democracy, there will be divergent and dissenting views, and we know, your Excellency, will live up to your undertaking to be a President for all Ghanaians,” the association indicated.
According to the President of the association, Yakubu Ibrahim Mahmi Ibash, even though the challenges ahead were enormous which require commitment, discipline and dedication, “we are in no doubt that you have what it takes to confront the challenges to usher in prosperity and well-being for all.”
He said while the government was getting settled to start actual business, the association hoped that it was determined to efficiently handle the Dagbon Chieftaincy stalemate in a neutral and impartial manner to ensure justice and lasting peace in the area.
“We will therefore like to also use this opportunity to advise all Dagombas that time is up for us to abandon the divisions we have shamelessly created among ourselves and to embrace the concept of corporate Dagbon where self imposed divisions and political manipulations do not determine our destiny,” Mr. Ibash entreated.
He further appealed to President Mills to help tackle the widening North-South gap to enhance social cohesion and equity in the area, adding that the association was confident the government would also address the structural imbalances that have contributed to impoverishing northern Ghana.
“In particular, we are hopeful you will address the massive infrastructural development, extend educational opportunities to excluded groups and strengthen agricultural productivity to offer livelihood opportunities to the majority of the people,” the President exhorted.
He also congratulated President John Atta Mills on his elevation to the Presidency; “we salute you for your courage and determination that culminated into your electoral victory and subsequent inauguration as the third President of the Fourth Republic of Ghana.”
“We recognise that in democracy, there will be divergent and dissenting views, and we know, your Excellency, will live up to your undertaking to be a President for all Ghanaians,” the association indicated.
According to the President of the association, Yakubu Ibrahim Mahmi Ibash, even though the challenges ahead were enormous which require commitment, discipline and dedication, “we are in no doubt that you have what it takes to confront the challenges to usher in prosperity and well-being for all.”
He said while the government was getting settled to start actual business, the association hoped that it was determined to efficiently handle the Dagbon Chieftaincy stalemate in a neutral and impartial manner to ensure justice and lasting peace in the area.
“We will therefore like to also use this opportunity to advise all Dagombas that time is up for us to abandon the divisions we have shamelessly created among ourselves and to embrace the concept of corporate Dagbon where self imposed divisions and political manipulations do not determine our destiny,” Mr. Ibash entreated.
He further appealed to President Mills to help tackle the widening North-South gap to enhance social cohesion and equity in the area, adding that the association was confident the government would also address the structural imbalances that have contributed to impoverishing northern Ghana.
“In particular, we are hopeful you will address the massive infrastructural development, extend educational opportunities to excluded groups and strengthen agricultural productivity to offer livelihood opportunities to the majority of the people,” the President exhorted.
He also congratulated President John Atta Mills on his elevation to the Presidency; “we salute you for your courage and determination that culminated into your electoral victory and subsequent inauguration as the third President of the Fourth Republic of Ghana.”
ASSEMBLY LAUNCHES CLEAN-UP (PAGE 29, JAN 30)
In line with the government’s determination to rid the country of filth, the Tamale Metro Assembly (TAMA) in collaboration with Zoomlion Company Limited, a waste management company, is clearing heaps of refuse at six refuse dumps in the metropolis.
The exercise is being undertaken as part of a massive clean-up exercise scheduled for February 14, 2009 to rid the city of filth that has engulfed some communities in the metropolis.
The exercise which would be sustained by the assembly is in line with the government's promise to ensure improvement in the sanitation situation in the entire country within its first 100 days in office.
According to the Tamale Metropolitan Co-ordinating Director, Alhaji Mohammed Adam Baba, proper sanitary practices and management continue to pose problems not only to Tamale but also all city authorities in the country.
In spite of the numerous appeals and educational campaigns for people to change their attitude by ensuring good sanitary practices, the situation has not improved as residents persistently dump refuse in drains and litter their surroundings without any reflection on the implications of their actions.
At some refuse disposal sites in the metropolis, some recalcitrant individuals continue to pour live charcoal into refuse containers, which action could result in fire outbreaks.
Even though the director pledged the assembly's readiness to contain the problem, he indicated ''we cannot do it alone if the people do not co-operate with us by changing their habits and ensuring that their surroundings are kept tidy at all times.'' Mr Baba further underscored the need for residents to rally behind the assembly and get actively involved in its activities to accelerate the development of the metropolis.
The exercise is being undertaken as part of a massive clean-up exercise scheduled for February 14, 2009 to rid the city of filth that has engulfed some communities in the metropolis.
The exercise which would be sustained by the assembly is in line with the government's promise to ensure improvement in the sanitation situation in the entire country within its first 100 days in office.
According to the Tamale Metropolitan Co-ordinating Director, Alhaji Mohammed Adam Baba, proper sanitary practices and management continue to pose problems not only to Tamale but also all city authorities in the country.
In spite of the numerous appeals and educational campaigns for people to change their attitude by ensuring good sanitary practices, the situation has not improved as residents persistently dump refuse in drains and litter their surroundings without any reflection on the implications of their actions.
At some refuse disposal sites in the metropolis, some recalcitrant individuals continue to pour live charcoal into refuse containers, which action could result in fire outbreaks.
Even though the director pledged the assembly's readiness to contain the problem, he indicated ''we cannot do it alone if the people do not co-operate with us by changing their habits and ensuring that their surroundings are kept tidy at all times.'' Mr Baba further underscored the need for residents to rally behind the assembly and get actively involved in its activities to accelerate the development of the metropolis.
TASK AHEAD OF NEW TAMA BOSS (PAGE 29, JAN
EVEN though a substantive chief executive for the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly (TAMA) is yet to be nominated and confirmed, it is clear that any distinguished personality who would occupy that enviable position would have a Herculean task.
Being one of the fastest growing cities in the country, the metropolis comes with its own challenges. Indeed anybody who is chosen as the Tamale Metropolitan Chief Executive would first of all need to unite the people who are clearly divided on both chieftaincy and political lines.
The existing Dagbon Chieftaincy crisis and the differences between the Andani and Abudu Royal Gates have existed for some decades but became more pronounced after the unfortunate happenings in Yendi in March 2002 that led to the death of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Yakubu Andani II and his retinue of elders.
Since then, a permanent solution is yet to be arrived at in the protracted crisis. It is further worsened by the fact that it has taken a deep rooted political dimension that has resulted in some disturbances between some sympathisers of the two major parties in the metropolis; the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over the years.
It would, therefore, be the duty of a new MCE to work assiduously with the leadership and followers of the two sides and the various political parties, particularly the NDC and the NPP to ensure the sustenance of the prevailing peace in the area for accelerated development.
Another area that the MCE would have to work on is helping to find jobs for the army of energetic but unemployed youth in the metropolis. The devil, they say, finds work for idle hands, and so it is not surprising that this particular group of exuberant youth is used by some selfish individuals and groups to foment trouble at the least provocation.
Arguably, Tamale has one of the best road networks in the country with large parts of it being asphalted and having bicycle lanes, pavements and sealed drains but the siting of illegal structures by the roadside has been a difficult task for the assembly to deal with. As the city expands with the establishment of new suburbs, there would be the need for the tarring of more roads since the exposure of people in those communities to dust poses a lot of health risks to them.
Just like in any growing city, the metropolis has its own challenges of dealing with waste disposal and management. There will have to be constant sensitisation programmes to remind the people of the urgent need to manage their waste responsibly.
Another phenomenon that is now growing out of proportion is the springing up of car washing bays at every nook and cranny of the metropolis.
It is common to see people washing vehicles on the shoulders of the beautifully constructed roads. Apart from the danger such practices pose to both motorists and pedestrians, the soapy water they use also damages the roads since some portions are washed away daily and this ultimately is a huge expense to the taxpayer.
This situation has prompted the concerns of some residents.
“What even bothers me most is the fact that officials of the municipal assembly see this negative practice daily on their way to their offices as they drive by the car washing bays along the road without taking any concrete action to stop it,” a teacher, Nana Osei said.
Also guilty of such practices are mechanics who, instead of moving to the light industrial area that has been demarcated for them to offer their services, have rather erected their sheds along most of the roads in the city. They sometimes do their repair works on the shoulders of the roads, spilling oil on them and subsequently damaging them.
Another area of grave concern to residents is the constant breakdown of traffic lights, especially at some busy road intersections during which the lives of pedestrians and motorists are put in danger and as a motorist, Salifu Alhassan, stated, “I do appreciate the efforts of the police to direct traffic at such difficult times but since they are not there at all times, more attention must be paid to the faulty traffic light system.”
Another resident, Iddi Mohammed, however commended the government for erecting traffic lights in most suburbs of the metropolis, but entreated the assembly to repair those in the central business district that have been out of order for some time now.
The city is indeed blessed with both human and material resources that could have a major impact on the growth of the area, if all hands are put on deck.
Contrary to the negative perception some people have about the metropolis, Tamale is the hub of the proverbial Ghanaian hospitality with its varied culture and traditions.
In all these, the new Mayor will need the political will and courage to carry out his responsibilities for the betterment of the people. It is in the same vein that all residents, despite their affiliation in all chieftaincy and political divides, will have to support and co-operate with whoever is nominated to achieve the desired goals of making Tamale a better place to live in.
Being one of the fastest growing cities in the country, the metropolis comes with its own challenges. Indeed anybody who is chosen as the Tamale Metropolitan Chief Executive would first of all need to unite the people who are clearly divided on both chieftaincy and political lines.
The existing Dagbon Chieftaincy crisis and the differences between the Andani and Abudu Royal Gates have existed for some decades but became more pronounced after the unfortunate happenings in Yendi in March 2002 that led to the death of the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Yakubu Andani II and his retinue of elders.
Since then, a permanent solution is yet to be arrived at in the protracted crisis. It is further worsened by the fact that it has taken a deep rooted political dimension that has resulted in some disturbances between some sympathisers of the two major parties in the metropolis; the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over the years.
It would, therefore, be the duty of a new MCE to work assiduously with the leadership and followers of the two sides and the various political parties, particularly the NDC and the NPP to ensure the sustenance of the prevailing peace in the area for accelerated development.
Another area that the MCE would have to work on is helping to find jobs for the army of energetic but unemployed youth in the metropolis. The devil, they say, finds work for idle hands, and so it is not surprising that this particular group of exuberant youth is used by some selfish individuals and groups to foment trouble at the least provocation.
Arguably, Tamale has one of the best road networks in the country with large parts of it being asphalted and having bicycle lanes, pavements and sealed drains but the siting of illegal structures by the roadside has been a difficult task for the assembly to deal with. As the city expands with the establishment of new suburbs, there would be the need for the tarring of more roads since the exposure of people in those communities to dust poses a lot of health risks to them.
Just like in any growing city, the metropolis has its own challenges of dealing with waste disposal and management. There will have to be constant sensitisation programmes to remind the people of the urgent need to manage their waste responsibly.
Another phenomenon that is now growing out of proportion is the springing up of car washing bays at every nook and cranny of the metropolis.
It is common to see people washing vehicles on the shoulders of the beautifully constructed roads. Apart from the danger such practices pose to both motorists and pedestrians, the soapy water they use also damages the roads since some portions are washed away daily and this ultimately is a huge expense to the taxpayer.
This situation has prompted the concerns of some residents.
“What even bothers me most is the fact that officials of the municipal assembly see this negative practice daily on their way to their offices as they drive by the car washing bays along the road without taking any concrete action to stop it,” a teacher, Nana Osei said.
Also guilty of such practices are mechanics who, instead of moving to the light industrial area that has been demarcated for them to offer their services, have rather erected their sheds along most of the roads in the city. They sometimes do their repair works on the shoulders of the roads, spilling oil on them and subsequently damaging them.
Another area of grave concern to residents is the constant breakdown of traffic lights, especially at some busy road intersections during which the lives of pedestrians and motorists are put in danger and as a motorist, Salifu Alhassan, stated, “I do appreciate the efforts of the police to direct traffic at such difficult times but since they are not there at all times, more attention must be paid to the faulty traffic light system.”
Another resident, Iddi Mohammed, however commended the government for erecting traffic lights in most suburbs of the metropolis, but entreated the assembly to repair those in the central business district that have been out of order for some time now.
The city is indeed blessed with both human and material resources that could have a major impact on the growth of the area, if all hands are put on deck.
Contrary to the negative perception some people have about the metropolis, Tamale is the hub of the proverbial Ghanaian hospitality with its varied culture and traditions.
In all these, the new Mayor will need the political will and courage to carry out his responsibilities for the betterment of the people. It is in the same vein that all residents, despite their affiliation in all chieftaincy and political divides, will have to support and co-operate with whoever is nominated to achieve the desired goals of making Tamale a better place to live in.
LIBYAN GOVT TO EMPOWER OUR FARMERS (PAGE 3, JAN 31)
The Libyan Government in collaboration with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has rolled out a programme to empower farmers and ensure food security in the country.
Dubbed the "Green Programme" the initiative is aimed at supporting farmers through the cultivation of their farmlands in any part of the country free of charge.
The programme is the brainchild of the Libyan Leader, Brother Muamar Gaddafi, targeted at supporting African countries to promote unity, alleviate poverty and ensure food security all year round to end the dependence on Western nations for food aid. Among the beneficiary countries are Ghana, Chad, Niger, Mali, Zimbabwe, Togo, Benin and Djibouti.
The Co-ordinator of the programme in Ghana, Mr Adel Alkish, who addressed the press in Tamale on Wednesday, indicated that his outfit had liaised with the MOFA to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative in the country.
He said tractors had already arrived in Tamale for the Northern Region and that more were on the way to support the farmers.
So far vegetable farmers at Golinga in the Tolon/Kumbungu District in the Northern Region where there are irrigation facilities are being supported under the programme.
“The government of Libya will ensure the sustainability of the programme over the years. Even though we have just begun work, the programme would be extended to all parts of the country irrespective of the religious persuasion of potential beneficiaries," Mr Alkis gave the assurance.
A farmer, Alhassan Neindow, who later spoke with the Daily Graphic, expressed appreciation to the Libyan government for the initiative and expressed the hope that leaders of the programme would reach out to all farmers who would need their services during the farming season.
"Even though the programme does not cover the supply of seeds and other inputs, we still thank the Libyan Leader for his vision and foresight in assisting us the poor farmers, whose only vocation is farming, particularly in this part of the country.”
Dubbed the "Green Programme" the initiative is aimed at supporting farmers through the cultivation of their farmlands in any part of the country free of charge.
The programme is the brainchild of the Libyan Leader, Brother Muamar Gaddafi, targeted at supporting African countries to promote unity, alleviate poverty and ensure food security all year round to end the dependence on Western nations for food aid. Among the beneficiary countries are Ghana, Chad, Niger, Mali, Zimbabwe, Togo, Benin and Djibouti.
The Co-ordinator of the programme in Ghana, Mr Adel Alkish, who addressed the press in Tamale on Wednesday, indicated that his outfit had liaised with the MOFA to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative in the country.
He said tractors had already arrived in Tamale for the Northern Region and that more were on the way to support the farmers.
So far vegetable farmers at Golinga in the Tolon/Kumbungu District in the Northern Region where there are irrigation facilities are being supported under the programme.
“The government of Libya will ensure the sustainability of the programme over the years. Even though we have just begun work, the programme would be extended to all parts of the country irrespective of the religious persuasion of potential beneficiaries," Mr Alkis gave the assurance.
A farmer, Alhassan Neindow, who later spoke with the Daily Graphic, expressed appreciation to the Libyan government for the initiative and expressed the hope that leaders of the programme would reach out to all farmers who would need their services during the farming season.
"Even though the programme does not cover the supply of seeds and other inputs, we still thank the Libyan Leader for his vision and foresight in assisting us the poor farmers, whose only vocation is farming, particularly in this part of the country.”
Sunday, February 1, 2009
WOMAN, 30, RIDES TO RAISE FUNDS ...To build primary school (PAGE 14, JAN 23)
A THIRTY-year-old staff of Stanbic Bank made history last Thursday when she rode a bicycle from Accra to Tamale as part of measures to raise funds for the construction of a school block and a library facility for the Nuru Imam Islamic Primary School at Tuutingli, near Tamale in the Northern Region.
The rider, Ms Humu Hatie Mahama, covered the 650-kilometre distance in six days from Accra to Tamale. The bank sponsored the rider on her venture.
She explained that her decision to embark on her humanitarian mission was borne out of her deep feelings for the underprivileged in society.
“This particular school has existed in its deplorable structures in the area for the past 22 years without much attention,” she stated.
Ms Mahama, therefore, pledged her resolve to ensure that the new six- classroom block and library would constructed before the beginning of the next academic year to ensure effective teaching and learning.
She observed that this would not only ensure the pupils studied in a conducive environment but would also encourage them to excel in their academic work to enable them to contribute to the development of their respective communities in future.
The Manager of the Tamale branch of Stanbic Bank, Mr Issah Seini Kataali, commended the rider for her feat and promised the bank’s readiness to support the project.
He explained that the support of the bank was part of its social responsibilities and hoped that the support would serve as an incentive to other individuals and organisations to also stand up and be counted.
The rider, Ms Humu Hatie Mahama, covered the 650-kilometre distance in six days from Accra to Tamale. The bank sponsored the rider on her venture.
She explained that her decision to embark on her humanitarian mission was borne out of her deep feelings for the underprivileged in society.
“This particular school has existed in its deplorable structures in the area for the past 22 years without much attention,” she stated.
Ms Mahama, therefore, pledged her resolve to ensure that the new six- classroom block and library would constructed before the beginning of the next academic year to ensure effective teaching and learning.
She observed that this would not only ensure the pupils studied in a conducive environment but would also encourage them to excel in their academic work to enable them to contribute to the development of their respective communities in future.
The Manager of the Tamale branch of Stanbic Bank, Mr Issah Seini Kataali, commended the rider for her feat and promised the bank’s readiness to support the project.
He explained that the support of the bank was part of its social responsibilities and hoped that the support would serve as an incentive to other individuals and organisations to also stand up and be counted.
DISMISSED STUDENTS ACCUSE PRINCIPAL OF EXTORTION (PAGE 11, JAN 21)
ONE hundred and thirty students who were dismissed from the Tamale School of Hygiene for allegedly using fake result slips to gain admission have accused the Principal of the school of extortion.
The dismissed students denied using fake documents and instead accused the school’s Principal, Mr Anladomo Kwaku Zori of masterminding their dismissal from the school after allegedly extorting moneys from them.
The aggrieved students at the weekend gathered at the offices of the Daily Graphic in Tamale to complain about what they described as “unfair treatment” by the school.
According to them, they were offered admission to the school in September last year after they had been issued with letters signed by the principal.
They said they later paid admission fees of GH¢580.00 each through the bank after which they were offered receipts by the school.
A couple of days later, they said a list of admitted students was pasted on the school notice board but their names were excluded.
“We were then asked to go home and come back on March 23 to normalise our admission”, they stated, adding that it was only a ploy to sack them from the school since by that time the school would be on recess.
Even though some of their colleagues had gone home, majority of them were still on campus and attending classes, they indicated.
When contacted, the principal denied all the allegations levelled against him and the school and explained that the admission requirements included passes in three core and three elective subjects at the senior high school level.
He added that original copies of certified result slips were brought by students during the selection interview after which admission letters signed by him were later offered to qualified applicants.
“In this particular case, some of the affected students might have gotten their admissions through the back door after claiming that they paid moneys to some middlemen,” the principal indicated.
He claimed that some of the alleged middlemen made photocopies of original admission letters with his signature and endorsed the forms themselves to make it look authentic.
Mr Zori disclosed that in all, 320 applicants legitimately gained admission into the school to pursue the two-year course for the 2008/09 academic year.
“I am only aware of some 33 students who have been asked to go home and come back on March 23 to normalise their stay in the school; if the number is more than that then I do not know where the rest are coming from,” he stated.
According to him, those whose documents would turn out to be genuine during the process would then be put on the waiting list for admission the following academic year.
On the refund of their fees, Mr Zori said it would be impossible because the students were adamant and still living on campus, attending lectures and enjoying all the facilities.
The dismissed students denied using fake documents and instead accused the school’s Principal, Mr Anladomo Kwaku Zori of masterminding their dismissal from the school after allegedly extorting moneys from them.
The aggrieved students at the weekend gathered at the offices of the Daily Graphic in Tamale to complain about what they described as “unfair treatment” by the school.
According to them, they were offered admission to the school in September last year after they had been issued with letters signed by the principal.
They said they later paid admission fees of GH¢580.00 each through the bank after which they were offered receipts by the school.
A couple of days later, they said a list of admitted students was pasted on the school notice board but their names were excluded.
“We were then asked to go home and come back on March 23 to normalise our admission”, they stated, adding that it was only a ploy to sack them from the school since by that time the school would be on recess.
Even though some of their colleagues had gone home, majority of them were still on campus and attending classes, they indicated.
When contacted, the principal denied all the allegations levelled against him and the school and explained that the admission requirements included passes in three core and three elective subjects at the senior high school level.
He added that original copies of certified result slips were brought by students during the selection interview after which admission letters signed by him were later offered to qualified applicants.
“In this particular case, some of the affected students might have gotten their admissions through the back door after claiming that they paid moneys to some middlemen,” the principal indicated.
He claimed that some of the alleged middlemen made photocopies of original admission letters with his signature and endorsed the forms themselves to make it look authentic.
Mr Zori disclosed that in all, 320 applicants legitimately gained admission into the school to pursue the two-year course for the 2008/09 academic year.
“I am only aware of some 33 students who have been asked to go home and come back on March 23 to normalise their stay in the school; if the number is more than that then I do not know where the rest are coming from,” he stated.
According to him, those whose documents would turn out to be genuine during the process would then be put on the waiting list for admission the following academic year.
On the refund of their fees, Mr Zori said it would be impossible because the students were adamant and still living on campus, attending lectures and enjoying all the facilities.
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