30-03-2010 Two persons shot in Bawku
Twelve suspected persons have been arrested in connection with the death of Sule Aremgo, who was shot last night in Bawku. Narrating the incident to Radio Ghana, the Bawku Commander of the Airborne Force Detachment, Capt. Ross Atiogbe said the incident occurred around 8.30 last night just opposite the Bawku branch of Barclays Bank, where some people were seated playing cards behind a tea seller. According to him, four unidentified gunmen came and opened fire on them killing the 41 year old Frafra man, Sule Aremgo, on the spot. One person believed to be a Moshi, who also sustained serious gunshot wounds as a result of the incident, is currently receiving medical attention at the Bawku Presby hospital. Capt Atiogbe, however, condemned the attack and has therefore advised residents of Bawku to remain calm since the police and the military are doing all that they can to bring the perpetrators to book.
GBC END IA/
Tuesday, 30 March 2010
Government poised to addressing salary concerns of workers
29-03-10 Government poised to addressing salary concerns of workers
The issuance of government’s white paper on the long awaiting Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS) is a clear indication that government and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission are poised to addressing the salary concerns of Ghanaian workers. Moreover, the single spine pay policy which is schedule to kick start in July this year, will help to ensure equity and transparency in the salary structure of workers. This came to light when a 3-Member Union Executive Committee of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), interacted with staff of GBC URA Radio at Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region. The working visit which forms part of their familiarization tour to the three northern regions was to learn at first hand, problems facing salaried workers of the corporation, share ideas on issues affecting workers and also educate the staff about the operations of the union. The Deputy Divisional Chairman, Ernest Opoku, who led the team advised GBC workers to alley all fears and public misconception about the implementation of the single spine pay policy adding that the policy when finally implemented would go a long way to addressing all irregularities in the salary structure of Ghanaian workers to the benefit of all. He said, the union as a body would continue to champion the cause of workers in the course of their respective duties and called on the staff to rally behind the union in ensuring their safety and wellbeing. Rev Opoku also called for attitudinal change towards work since GBC is gradually going through total transformation in broadcasting. The Divisional Union Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Nartey and the 1st Trustee of the union, Mr. Lawrence Tetteh took participants through the corporation’s code of conduct, the new pension scheme, and the benefit of the Corporation’s Provident Fund. The Regional Director of GBC URA Radio, Mr. Abubakar Alhassan commended the team for their exemplary leadership in their effort to helping address issues affecting workers of GBC. Mr. Alhassan charged workers to show true commitment and dedication towards work by eschewing lateness, laziness, backbiting and other negative attitudes for the development of the corporation. Participants including the local union members expressed grave concern about the problems affecting staff, manning the three regional GBC stations of the north. Issues raised, bordered on inadequate staffing, the payment system, and lack of skill training for staffs, among others. They therefore appealed to the union and management of GBC to show much concern about the plight of workers in the three northern regions since they work under strict and harsh conditions.
GBC END IA
The issuance of government’s white paper on the long awaiting Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS) is a clear indication that government and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission are poised to addressing the salary concerns of Ghanaian workers. Moreover, the single spine pay policy which is schedule to kick start in July this year, will help to ensure equity and transparency in the salary structure of workers. This came to light when a 3-Member Union Executive Committee of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), interacted with staff of GBC URA Radio at Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region. The working visit which forms part of their familiarization tour to the three northern regions was to learn at first hand, problems facing salaried workers of the corporation, share ideas on issues affecting workers and also educate the staff about the operations of the union. The Deputy Divisional Chairman, Ernest Opoku, who led the team advised GBC workers to alley all fears and public misconception about the implementation of the single spine pay policy adding that the policy when finally implemented would go a long way to addressing all irregularities in the salary structure of Ghanaian workers to the benefit of all. He said, the union as a body would continue to champion the cause of workers in the course of their respective duties and called on the staff to rally behind the union in ensuring their safety and wellbeing. Rev Opoku also called for attitudinal change towards work since GBC is gradually going through total transformation in broadcasting. The Divisional Union Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Nartey and the 1st Trustee of the union, Mr. Lawrence Tetteh took participants through the corporation’s code of conduct, the new pension scheme, and the benefit of the Corporation’s Provident Fund. The Regional Director of GBC URA Radio, Mr. Abubakar Alhassan commended the team for their exemplary leadership in their effort to helping address issues affecting workers of GBC. Mr. Alhassan charged workers to show true commitment and dedication towards work by eschewing lateness, laziness, backbiting and other negative attitudes for the development of the corporation. Participants including the local union members expressed grave concern about the problems affecting staff, manning the three regional GBC stations of the north. Issues raised, bordered on inadequate staffing, the payment system, and lack of skill training for staffs, among others. They therefore appealed to the union and management of GBC to show much concern about the plight of workers in the three northern regions since they work under strict and harsh conditions.
GBC END IA
Friday, 26 March 2010
Staff of GBC Assured of Adequate Support
25-03-2010 Staff of GBC Assured of Adequate Support
Staff of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, have been tasked to live up to expectation in order to uplift the image of the corporation. The Human Resource Manager of the Corporation, Kusi Kojo Boakye, made this known when he interacted with the staff of GBC URA Radio at Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region as part of his two-day working visit to the region. The aim of the visit was to enable him to familiarize himself with personnel of the station and also get to know the operations and challenges affecting them. Isaac Asare was at the meeting and has filed this report.
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ANCR V/O
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Accompanied by the Principal Administrative Officer, Mr Konadu Darko, Mr Boakye was taken round the facilities of URA Radio to ascertain the level of development at the station. Mr Boakye, entreated the staff to eschew laziness, backbiting, lateness and other irregularities towards work, but rather put up their best by adopting new ideas and innovations that can help boost their internal revenue base of the station for the benefit of all. He also called on the staff to as a matter of concern upgrade themselves so as to improve upon their performance. He said due to the competitive nature of the country’s media landscape, it behoves on all staff of the corporation to exhibit high sense of dedication, discipline, hard work and professionalism so as to maintain the hard won reputation of the corporation as the pacesetters in public broadcasting. Mr Boakye therefore assured staff of the three regional GBC stations, of his support in ensuring that special incentive and motivational packages are given them in order to attract more personnel to the regions. This, he said, can go a long way to solving the problem of inadequate staffing among the stations in these regions. The Regional Director of the station, Mr Abubakar Alhassan, in his submission, thanked the management of GBC for showing deep concern in the affairs of his staff. He enumerated a number of challenges confronting the station which he said, borders on inadequate staffing and allowances for temporal staff, transportation, as well as inadequate computers and other accessories among others. Mr Alhasaan also commended staff of the station for their continuous support and hard work since his assumption of office and pledged his preparedness to address some of the minor challenges affecting the development of the station. Some temporal staff who have worked for the station over the past years appealed to management of GBC, to elevate them to the status of contact staffs.
---End---
Staff of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, have been tasked to live up to expectation in order to uplift the image of the corporation. The Human Resource Manager of the Corporation, Kusi Kojo Boakye, made this known when he interacted with the staff of GBC URA Radio at Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region as part of his two-day working visit to the region. The aim of the visit was to enable him to familiarize himself with personnel of the station and also get to know the operations and challenges affecting them. Isaac Asare was at the meeting and has filed this report.
CUE IN ………………………………
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ANCR V/O
Report
Accompanied by the Principal Administrative Officer, Mr Konadu Darko, Mr Boakye was taken round the facilities of URA Radio to ascertain the level of development at the station. Mr Boakye, entreated the staff to eschew laziness, backbiting, lateness and other irregularities towards work, but rather put up their best by adopting new ideas and innovations that can help boost their internal revenue base of the station for the benefit of all. He also called on the staff to as a matter of concern upgrade themselves so as to improve upon their performance. He said due to the competitive nature of the country’s media landscape, it behoves on all staff of the corporation to exhibit high sense of dedication, discipline, hard work and professionalism so as to maintain the hard won reputation of the corporation as the pacesetters in public broadcasting. Mr Boakye therefore assured staff of the three regional GBC stations, of his support in ensuring that special incentive and motivational packages are given them in order to attract more personnel to the regions. This, he said, can go a long way to solving the problem of inadequate staffing among the stations in these regions. The Regional Director of the station, Mr Abubakar Alhassan, in his submission, thanked the management of GBC for showing deep concern in the affairs of his staff. He enumerated a number of challenges confronting the station which he said, borders on inadequate staffing and allowances for temporal staff, transportation, as well as inadequate computers and other accessories among others. Mr Alhasaan also commended staff of the station for their continuous support and hard work since his assumption of office and pledged his preparedness to address some of the minor challenges affecting the development of the station. Some temporal staff who have worked for the station over the past years appealed to management of GBC, to elevate them to the status of contact staffs.
---End---
Sunday, 21 March 2010
NAVASCO to be given a facelift
21-03-2010 NAVASCO to be given a facelift
Narration: Various facilities for students and staff of the Navrongo Senior High School (NAVASCO) at Navrongo in the Upper East Region are to be carried out soon to give the school a facelift. Negotiations are therefore underway with the Ministry of Education and the GETfund Secretariat in that direction. The Kassena-Nankana East District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr. Emmanuel Andema, who made the disclosure at the launch of the school’s Golden Jubilee anniversary at Navrongo, said government is committed to ensuring that education is given its rightful place to, merits its worth in national development. The occasion which was heavily attended by government officials, chiefs, heads of decentralized departments and institutions, municipal and district directors of education among others was on the theme:’ “Navasco, 50 years of true light.” Isaac Asare was at the launch and has filed this report for Radio Ghana.
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The Navrongo Senior High School, popularly known as “Navasco “was established in 1960 by the first President of Ghana, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, to serve not only the people of Navrongo but also students from the northern and upper regions. The school which is situated on a one-mile square land, started with only 67 students and now has a student population of 1,287 students offering programmes such as home economics, Agriculture, General Arts and science, Business and Visual Arts. The school despite its numerous challenges over the years has never compromise on its academic standards and dominance in other extra-curricular activities including sports, debates and other national competitions. Last year, the school had a 100 percent pass in the WASSCE results with 221 out of 391 students gaining admission into the various tertiary institutions across the country. Launching the anniversary, Mr. Andema pledged government continuous support to the school in order to give it a facelift. The DCE encouraged the students to take the mantle of leadership in the society since the task ahead is quite challenging and requires a lot of dedication, determination and commitment to succeed. The Pro-vice Chancellor, UDS, Prof. David Miller, who spoke on behalf of the Board chairman of the school appealed to past students to rise up and assist their alma mater. Prof Miller urged students and staff of the school to remain discipline in order to create a congenial atmosphere for effective teaching and learning. He also cautioned students against the use of drugs and other substance that are inimical to their health. On his part,the headmaster of the school, Mr. Patrick Tangonyire, mentioned inadequate water supply, lack of classroom furniture and students’ beds, as well as staff accommodation as some of the numerous challenges confronting the school. Mr. Tangonyire called on the support of the government and other relevant stakeholder to render their continuous support to the development of the school to enhance its academic performance, which he said has been good over the years. The Member of Parliament for the area, Mr Kofi Adda through the NPP Constituency Chairman, donated a set of football jersey and musical instruments for the school. He pledged to provide the school with extra street lights and one hundred foldable chairs for use by the school and urged all and sundry to contribute their widow’s mites, in ensuring a successful 50th anniversary celebration, come October. About 5,000 Ghana Cedis was later realized at the end of an appeal for funds towards the construction of a modern school library and an ICT center for the school.
Narration: Various facilities for students and staff of the Navrongo Senior High School (NAVASCO) at Navrongo in the Upper East Region are to be carried out soon to give the school a facelift. Negotiations are therefore underway with the Ministry of Education and the GETfund Secretariat in that direction. The Kassena-Nankana East District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr. Emmanuel Andema, who made the disclosure at the launch of the school’s Golden Jubilee anniversary at Navrongo, said government is committed to ensuring that education is given its rightful place to, merits its worth in national development. The occasion which was heavily attended by government officials, chiefs, heads of decentralized departments and institutions, municipal and district directors of education among others was on the theme:’ “Navasco, 50 years of true light.” Isaac Asare was at the launch and has filed this report for Radio Ghana.
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ANCR V/O
Report
The Navrongo Senior High School, popularly known as “Navasco “was established in 1960 by the first President of Ghana, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, to serve not only the people of Navrongo but also students from the northern and upper regions. The school which is situated on a one-mile square land, started with only 67 students and now has a student population of 1,287 students offering programmes such as home economics, Agriculture, General Arts and science, Business and Visual Arts. The school despite its numerous challenges over the years has never compromise on its academic standards and dominance in other extra-curricular activities including sports, debates and other national competitions. Last year, the school had a 100 percent pass in the WASSCE results with 221 out of 391 students gaining admission into the various tertiary institutions across the country. Launching the anniversary, Mr. Andema pledged government continuous support to the school in order to give it a facelift. The DCE encouraged the students to take the mantle of leadership in the society since the task ahead is quite challenging and requires a lot of dedication, determination and commitment to succeed. The Pro-vice Chancellor, UDS, Prof. David Miller, who spoke on behalf of the Board chairman of the school appealed to past students to rise up and assist their alma mater. Prof Miller urged students and staff of the school to remain discipline in order to create a congenial atmosphere for effective teaching and learning. He also cautioned students against the use of drugs and other substance that are inimical to their health. On his part,the headmaster of the school, Mr. Patrick Tangonyire, mentioned inadequate water supply, lack of classroom furniture and students’ beds, as well as staff accommodation as some of the numerous challenges confronting the school. Mr. Tangonyire called on the support of the government and other relevant stakeholder to render their continuous support to the development of the school to enhance its academic performance, which he said has been good over the years. The Member of Parliament for the area, Mr Kofi Adda through the NPP Constituency Chairman, donated a set of football jersey and musical instruments for the school. He pledged to provide the school with extra street lights and one hundred foldable chairs for use by the school and urged all and sundry to contribute their widow’s mites, in ensuring a successful 50th anniversary celebration, come October. About 5,000 Ghana Cedis was later realized at the end of an appeal for funds towards the construction of a modern school library and an ICT center for the school.
Gov’t tasked to expedite action on all outstanding allowances due teachers
20-03-2010 Gov’t tasked to expedite action on all outstanding allowances due teachers
Government as a matter of urgency has been asked to expedite action on the payment of salaries and outstanding allowances to all qualified teachers across the country. In view of this, government and the Fair Wages and Salary Commission (FWSC) should also sit up with the various groups who have outstanding issues regarding job evaluation, base payment, relative ratio, and placement among others to pave way for the test running of the single-spine salary structure for implementation. This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of an emergency regional meeting of the Upper East Branch of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) at Bolgatanga. The communiqué further advised government to put all necessary policies in place in ensuring that the proposed single spine pay policy does not fail Ghanaians, as a white paper has been issued for its smooth take off by July 2010, adding that, excuses or failure to implement the policy would not be at the best interest of the government. The communiqué is therefore calling on the fair wages and salaries commission, the Ghana Education Service and the Ministry of Education to endorse the road map for the implementation of the collective agreement signed on December 31st last year by the unions as a working document. The council which lauded government’s efforts at providing affordable education also stressed the need for the government and the educational authorities to providing the needed infrastructure to accommodate the over 140,000 students due to gain admission into the second cycle institutions come September, this year. Any delay according to the council, would adversely affect a great number of prospective students particularly, in the Upper East Region. The council, however, reiterated teacher’s commitment to their duties and expressed the hope that government on the other hand will show equal commitment to addressing concerns raised by teachers for effective education delivery in Ghana.
GBC END IA/
Government as a matter of urgency has been asked to expedite action on the payment of salaries and outstanding allowances to all qualified teachers across the country. In view of this, government and the Fair Wages and Salary Commission (FWSC) should also sit up with the various groups who have outstanding issues regarding job evaluation, base payment, relative ratio, and placement among others to pave way for the test running of the single-spine salary structure for implementation. This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of an emergency regional meeting of the Upper East Branch of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) at Bolgatanga. The communiqué further advised government to put all necessary policies in place in ensuring that the proposed single spine pay policy does not fail Ghanaians, as a white paper has been issued for its smooth take off by July 2010, adding that, excuses or failure to implement the policy would not be at the best interest of the government. The communiqué is therefore calling on the fair wages and salaries commission, the Ghana Education Service and the Ministry of Education to endorse the road map for the implementation of the collective agreement signed on December 31st last year by the unions as a working document. The council which lauded government’s efforts at providing affordable education also stressed the need for the government and the educational authorities to providing the needed infrastructure to accommodate the over 140,000 students due to gain admission into the second cycle institutions come September, this year. Any delay according to the council, would adversely affect a great number of prospective students particularly, in the Upper East Region. The council, however, reiterated teacher’s commitment to their duties and expressed the hope that government on the other hand will show equal commitment to addressing concerns raised by teachers for effective education delivery in Ghana.
GBC END IA/
Friday, 19 March 2010
Disability and persons with disabilities
Compiled by Isaac Asare of GBC URA Radio,Bolgatanga
Introduction
Disability and persons with disabilities
Persons with disabilities are entitled to exercise their civil, political, social, economic and cultural rights on an equal basis with others. Disability "summarizes a great number of different functional limitations occurring in any population in any country of the world. People may be disabled by physical, intellectual or sensory impairment, medical conditions or mental illness. Such impairments, conditions or illnesses may be permanent or transitory in nature." (Standard Rules on the Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities). Different expressions are used when referring to persons with disabilities. For example, the term "differently-abled persons" indicates that disability is not perceived as a deviation from the norm. The term "disabled persons" might be misinterpreted to imply that the ability of the individual to function as a person has been disabled. This guide uses the term "persons with disabilities", which is consistent with the language used by the United Nations (UN).
The UN estimates that there are 500 million persons with disabilities in the world today. This number is increasing every year due to factors such as war and destruction, unhealthy living conditions, or the absence of knowledge about disability, its causes, prevention and treatment.
The majority of persons with disabilities live in less developed countries including Ghana where people lack access to essential services such as health care. Moreover, there exists a clear relationship between poverty and disability. The risk of impairment is greater for a family that lives in poverty, while and at the same time, a disabled family member places higher demands on the family's resources. Among persons with disabilities, the following form particularly vulnerable groups that face discrimination based on two grounds: women, children, elders, victims of torture, refugees and displaced persons, and migrant workers. For instance, women with a disability are discriminated against because of their gender and also because of their disability.
Development of disability policy
The work of the UN constitutes the most important actions taken by an international organization in the area of disability. Based on the International Bill of Rights, the UN formulated the first specific document regarding disabilities in 1971 in the Declaration on the Rights of Mentally Retarded Persons. Important other documents followed but none of them are legally binding.
The 1980s mark the main phase of activity regarding establishing international norms pertaining to persons with disabilities. In 1981, the General Assembly declared the first International Year of Disabled Persons. It was followed by the World Programme of Action Concerning Disabled Persons in 1982 and the Decade of Disabled Persons 1983-1992. Throughout the 1990s all UN conferences dealt with disability rights and addressed the need for protective instruments (World Conference on Human Rights 1993, Fourth World Conference on Women 1995, Habitat II 1996). At present, the Ad Hoc Committee on Disabilities is involved in a process to create a convention that protects disabled persons on an international level.
A high level of awareness is also demonstrated by the European Union, the year 2003 was declared as the European Year of People with Disabilities. Other important regional observances include the Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons (1993-2002), the African Decade of Disabled People (2000-2009), and the Arab Decade of Disabled Persons (2003-2012).
Rights at Stake
Persons with disabilities suffer from discrimination based on society's prejudice and ignorance. In addition, they often do not enjoy the same opportunities as other people because of the lack of access to essential services.
International human rights law determines that every person has:
1. The right of equality before law
2. The right to non discrimination
3. The right to equal opportunity
4. The right to independent living
5. The right to full integration
6. The right to security
Policy regarding disabilities is often dominated by the notion of "equalization of opportunities", which means that society must employ its resources in such a way that every individual, including persons with disabilities, has an equal opportunity to participate in society.
Establishment of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Person with Disabilities
On December 13, 2006, the United Nations formally agreed on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the first human rights treaty of the 21st century, to protect and enhance the rights and opportunities of the world's estimated 650 million disabled people.[8]
Countries that sign up to the convention will be required to adopt national laws, and remove old ones, so that persons with disabilities would, for example, have equal rights to education, employment, and cultural life; the right to own and inherit property; not be discriminated against in marriage, children, etc.; not be unwilling subjects in medical experiments.
In 1976, the United Nations launched its International Year for Disabled Persons (1981), later re-named the International Year of Disabled Persons. The UN Decade of Disabled Persons (1983–1993) featured a World Programme of Action Concerning Disabled Persons. In 1979, Frank Bowe was the only person with a disability representing any country in the planning of IYDP-1981. Today, many countries have named representatives who are themselves individuals with disabilities. The decade was closed in an address before the General Assembly by Robert Davila. Both Bowe and Davila are deaf. In 1984, UNESCO accepted sign language for use in education of deaf children and youth. The use of the braille has also been of great importance to persons who are visually impared. With the aid of the braille, the visually impaired are able to read just like persons who have clear vision.
In Ghana, the fundamental human rights and freedom of persons with disability and the Mentally ill have been relegated to the background in all aspect of life. They face a lot of challenges that hinder their developmental agendas. In order to champion the cause of these unfortunate persons, to have equal opportunity to be actively involved in decision making processes and programs. This problems and challenges have necessitated the formation of the Network of journalists For the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities-Ghana Chapter. It is an organization under the non-political and non-profit making of the Network of journalists For the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities-Ghana Chapter.
Story on 2% Common Fund for Disabled
Distribution of 2% Disability Common Fund
-Suhum Kraboa Coaltar Shows the Positive Way!
The Suhum Kraboa Coaltar District Assembly in the Eastern Region in its efforts to complement the government’s effort at reducing poverty among persons with disabilities in Ghana, have taken a giant lead in the distribution of the Assemblies two percent of its common Funds to persons with disabilities in the district. According a research conducted in five district in three regions by the Network of Journalist for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with disabilities in Africa-Ghana Chapter and sponsored by the Ghana Federation of the Disabled (GFD), reveals that among the five district, Suhum Kraboa Coaltar District Assembly is the only district that has a well organised formula to disbursed the funds for PWDs. The research revealed that the District Chief Executive of Suhum Kraboa Coaltar District Assembly Hon. Samuel Fleischer Kwabi has setup a ten member Disability Management Sub-committee charged to work assiduously to ensure fairness, transparency in dealing in all aspect of PWDs in the District.
This is a laudable initiative since it would go a long way to help address some of the problems affecting persons with disability in the area.
The Network of Journalist on the rights and promotion of persons with disability with other stakeholders are therefore calling on the government, particularly the various district and municipal and metropolitan assemblies in the country to factor into their budget and the common fund, certain percentage of money to be set aside to cater for the wellbeing of persons with disability as well as the mentally ill in the society. The network has since its establishment organized seminars and workshops for media practitioners towards the ratification of the UN Convention and the passage of the Ghana Mental Health bill put before parliament. The convention is an international convention law that is to enable persons with disability to enjoy their full human rights all over the world with the purpose to of promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity.
The need for the ratification of the Convention
It will enable government to increase consultation with and involvement of persons with disability in decision making and further enable the society to adopt some of the core principles for persons with disability: respect for human dignity; Non-discrimination; full and effective participation and inclusion in society etc.
The need for the passage of the Ghana Mental Health bill, which is a draft law that acknowledges the current international instrument and obligation on human rights has also become necessary since it will help promote and protect the rights of people with mental disorders, as well as to promote access to mental health care. The bill adopts a human right based approach in accordance with international agreements for the health care needs of persons with mental disorders. These are to prevent discrimination in all forms and offer equal opportunities to people with mental disorders. However, the passage of the bill will enable gov’t to improve mental health care and prevent situations where mentally ill persons are let loose on the street and communities in the country. On the other hand media practitioners considered as the mouthpiece of the Ghanaian populace have been asked to be at the forefront of the fight against stereotying, prejudices and injustices meted out to persons with disabilities and the mental sick persons. They on the request of the network have also been charge not to use derogatory statements and remarks on such person with disability that sometimes put them in public ridicule.
Signing up for the ratification of the convention and passage of the Ghana Mental Health bill
Appending your signature means that you support the ratification of the UN Convention and the passage of the Ghana Mental Health bill.
Introduction
Disability and persons with disabilities
Persons with disabilities are entitled to exercise their civil, political, social, economic and cultural rights on an equal basis with others. Disability "summarizes a great number of different functional limitations occurring in any population in any country of the world. People may be disabled by physical, intellectual or sensory impairment, medical conditions or mental illness. Such impairments, conditions or illnesses may be permanent or transitory in nature." (Standard Rules on the Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities). Different expressions are used when referring to persons with disabilities. For example, the term "differently-abled persons" indicates that disability is not perceived as a deviation from the norm. The term "disabled persons" might be misinterpreted to imply that the ability of the individual to function as a person has been disabled. This guide uses the term "persons with disabilities", which is consistent with the language used by the United Nations (UN).
The UN estimates that there are 500 million persons with disabilities in the world today. This number is increasing every year due to factors such as war and destruction, unhealthy living conditions, or the absence of knowledge about disability, its causes, prevention and treatment.
The majority of persons with disabilities live in less developed countries including Ghana where people lack access to essential services such as health care. Moreover, there exists a clear relationship between poverty and disability. The risk of impairment is greater for a family that lives in poverty, while and at the same time, a disabled family member places higher demands on the family's resources. Among persons with disabilities, the following form particularly vulnerable groups that face discrimination based on two grounds: women, children, elders, victims of torture, refugees and displaced persons, and migrant workers. For instance, women with a disability are discriminated against because of their gender and also because of their disability.
Development of disability policy
The work of the UN constitutes the most important actions taken by an international organization in the area of disability. Based on the International Bill of Rights, the UN formulated the first specific document regarding disabilities in 1971 in the Declaration on the Rights of Mentally Retarded Persons. Important other documents followed but none of them are legally binding.
The 1980s mark the main phase of activity regarding establishing international norms pertaining to persons with disabilities. In 1981, the General Assembly declared the first International Year of Disabled Persons. It was followed by the World Programme of Action Concerning Disabled Persons in 1982 and the Decade of Disabled Persons 1983-1992. Throughout the 1990s all UN conferences dealt with disability rights and addressed the need for protective instruments (World Conference on Human Rights 1993, Fourth World Conference on Women 1995, Habitat II 1996). At present, the Ad Hoc Committee on Disabilities is involved in a process to create a convention that protects disabled persons on an international level.
A high level of awareness is also demonstrated by the European Union, the year 2003 was declared as the European Year of People with Disabilities. Other important regional observances include the Asian and Pacific Decade of Disabled Persons (1993-2002), the African Decade of Disabled People (2000-2009), and the Arab Decade of Disabled Persons (2003-2012).
Rights at Stake
Persons with disabilities suffer from discrimination based on society's prejudice and ignorance. In addition, they often do not enjoy the same opportunities as other people because of the lack of access to essential services.
International human rights law determines that every person has:
1. The right of equality before law
2. The right to non discrimination
3. The right to equal opportunity
4. The right to independent living
5. The right to full integration
6. The right to security
Policy regarding disabilities is often dominated by the notion of "equalization of opportunities", which means that society must employ its resources in such a way that every individual, including persons with disabilities, has an equal opportunity to participate in society.
Establishment of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Person with Disabilities
On December 13, 2006, the United Nations formally agreed on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the first human rights treaty of the 21st century, to protect and enhance the rights and opportunities of the world's estimated 650 million disabled people.[8]
Countries that sign up to the convention will be required to adopt national laws, and remove old ones, so that persons with disabilities would, for example, have equal rights to education, employment, and cultural life; the right to own and inherit property; not be discriminated against in marriage, children, etc.; not be unwilling subjects in medical experiments.
In 1976, the United Nations launched its International Year for Disabled Persons (1981), later re-named the International Year of Disabled Persons. The UN Decade of Disabled Persons (1983–1993) featured a World Programme of Action Concerning Disabled Persons. In 1979, Frank Bowe was the only person with a disability representing any country in the planning of IYDP-1981. Today, many countries have named representatives who are themselves individuals with disabilities. The decade was closed in an address before the General Assembly by Robert Davila. Both Bowe and Davila are deaf. In 1984, UNESCO accepted sign language for use in education of deaf children and youth. The use of the braille has also been of great importance to persons who are visually impared. With the aid of the braille, the visually impaired are able to read just like persons who have clear vision.
In Ghana, the fundamental human rights and freedom of persons with disability and the Mentally ill have been relegated to the background in all aspect of life. They face a lot of challenges that hinder their developmental agendas. In order to champion the cause of these unfortunate persons, to have equal opportunity to be actively involved in decision making processes and programs. This problems and challenges have necessitated the formation of the Network of journalists For the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities-Ghana Chapter. It is an organization under the non-political and non-profit making of the Network of journalists For the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities-Ghana Chapter.
Story on 2% Common Fund for Disabled
Distribution of 2% Disability Common Fund
-Suhum Kraboa Coaltar Shows the Positive Way!
The Suhum Kraboa Coaltar District Assembly in the Eastern Region in its efforts to complement the government’s effort at reducing poverty among persons with disabilities in Ghana, have taken a giant lead in the distribution of the Assemblies two percent of its common Funds to persons with disabilities in the district. According a research conducted in five district in three regions by the Network of Journalist for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with disabilities in Africa-Ghana Chapter and sponsored by the Ghana Federation of the Disabled (GFD), reveals that among the five district, Suhum Kraboa Coaltar District Assembly is the only district that has a well organised formula to disbursed the funds for PWDs. The research revealed that the District Chief Executive of Suhum Kraboa Coaltar District Assembly Hon. Samuel Fleischer Kwabi has setup a ten member Disability Management Sub-committee charged to work assiduously to ensure fairness, transparency in dealing in all aspect of PWDs in the District.
This is a laudable initiative since it would go a long way to help address some of the problems affecting persons with disability in the area.
The Network of Journalist on the rights and promotion of persons with disability with other stakeholders are therefore calling on the government, particularly the various district and municipal and metropolitan assemblies in the country to factor into their budget and the common fund, certain percentage of money to be set aside to cater for the wellbeing of persons with disability as well as the mentally ill in the society. The network has since its establishment organized seminars and workshops for media practitioners towards the ratification of the UN Convention and the passage of the Ghana Mental Health bill put before parliament. The convention is an international convention law that is to enable persons with disability to enjoy their full human rights all over the world with the purpose to of promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity.
The need for the ratification of the Convention
It will enable government to increase consultation with and involvement of persons with disability in decision making and further enable the society to adopt some of the core principles for persons with disability: respect for human dignity; Non-discrimination; full and effective participation and inclusion in society etc.
The need for the passage of the Ghana Mental Health bill, which is a draft law that acknowledges the current international instrument and obligation on human rights has also become necessary since it will help promote and protect the rights of people with mental disorders, as well as to promote access to mental health care. The bill adopts a human right based approach in accordance with international agreements for the health care needs of persons with mental disorders. These are to prevent discrimination in all forms and offer equal opportunities to people with mental disorders. However, the passage of the bill will enable gov’t to improve mental health care and prevent situations where mentally ill persons are let loose on the street and communities in the country. On the other hand media practitioners considered as the mouthpiece of the Ghanaian populace have been asked to be at the forefront of the fight against stereotying, prejudices and injustices meted out to persons with disabilities and the mental sick persons. They on the request of the network have also been charge not to use derogatory statements and remarks on such person with disability that sometimes put them in public ridicule.
Signing up for the ratification of the convention and passage of the Ghana Mental Health bill
Appending your signature means that you support the ratification of the UN Convention and the passage of the Ghana Mental Health bill.
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
Media Urged To Promote the Rights of Persons with Disability
17-03-2010 Media Urged To Promote the Rights of Persons with Disability
The Network of Journalists for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Africa-Ghana Chapter (PROMOAFRICA) has called on the Ghanaian media to be circumspect in their reportage and also desist from making derogatory statements on persons with disabilities. Journalists are obliged not use terminologies that puts persons with disabilities into public ridicule. Speaking to Radio Ghana in an interview, the Local Chapter President of the Network, Seth K. Addi, said the network over the years has noted with grave concern certain unfavourable reports and words used by some media practitioners on persons with disability, which according to them contravene to article 37(1) and (2) of the Disability Act, 2006(Act715) which clearly states that, a person shall not call a person with disability derogatory names due to the state of disability of the person. A person who contravenes subsection 1 of the act commits an offence and is liable on summary to a fine not exceeding penalty units or a term of imprisonment not exceeding three months or to both. Mr Addi therefore cautioned the journalists not to sue misguided statements with the intention of putting persons with disability into public ridicule. He also appealed to all media practitioners in Ghana to portray persons with disabilities in a manner consistent with the UN Convention on the rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Disability Law, Act 715. However, media personnel should recognized the value existence and potential contribution being made by persons with disabilities to the overall wellbeing and diversity of their communities and promote their skills, merits and abilities and contributions to the workplace and the labour market rather than putting them into public ridicule. Mr Addi called on the government to fast track the passage of the Ghana Mental Health bill and the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Ghana to help promote their rights and also empower them in all spheres.
GBC END IA/
The Network of Journalists for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Africa-Ghana Chapter (PROMOAFRICA) has called on the Ghanaian media to be circumspect in their reportage and also desist from making derogatory statements on persons with disabilities. Journalists are obliged not use terminologies that puts persons with disabilities into public ridicule. Speaking to Radio Ghana in an interview, the Local Chapter President of the Network, Seth K. Addi, said the network over the years has noted with grave concern certain unfavourable reports and words used by some media practitioners on persons with disability, which according to them contravene to article 37(1) and (2) of the Disability Act, 2006(Act715) which clearly states that, a person shall not call a person with disability derogatory names due to the state of disability of the person. A person who contravenes subsection 1 of the act commits an offence and is liable on summary to a fine not exceeding penalty units or a term of imprisonment not exceeding three months or to both. Mr Addi therefore cautioned the journalists not to sue misguided statements with the intention of putting persons with disability into public ridicule. He also appealed to all media practitioners in Ghana to portray persons with disabilities in a manner consistent with the UN Convention on the rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Disability Law, Act 715. However, media personnel should recognized the value existence and potential contribution being made by persons with disabilities to the overall wellbeing and diversity of their communities and promote their skills, merits and abilities and contributions to the workplace and the labour market rather than putting them into public ridicule. Mr Addi called on the government to fast track the passage of the Ghana Mental Health bill and the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Ghana to help promote their rights and also empower them in all spheres.
GBC END IA/
Network Demands Apology to the Visually Impaired
17-03-2010 Network Demands Apology to the Visually Impaired
The Network of Journalists for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Africa-Ghana Chapter(PROMOAFRICA) has condemn the blatant attack unleashed on visually impaired persons in Ghana by Kwame Dzokoto,a television personality and a presenter of Hello FM in Kumasi during the just ended MTN nominee Jam at the Takoradi Polytechnic Park. This was contained in a release signed by the Local Chapter President of the Network, Mr Seth K.Addi. According to the release on March 16, 2010, Mr Dzokoto who was serving as the Master of Ceremony (MC) for the said event, asked his audience who were wearing spectacles to remove them because to him they look like blind men. To the Network this statement is in contravention to article 37(1) and (2) of the Disability Act, 2006(Act715) which clearly states that ‘a person shall not call a person with disability derogatory names due to the state of disability of the person. a person who contravenes subsection 1 of the act commits an offence and is liable on summary to a fine not exceeding penalty units or a term of imprisonment not exceeding three months or to both. The Network is therefore demanding an apology from Mr Dzokoto through the Ghana Federation of the Disabled to all visually impaired persons, who are greatly offended with his unguided statement with the intention of putting persons with disabilities into public ridicule. The Network has also threatened legal action against Mr Dzokoto if he fails to render the apology. It is also appealing to all media practitioners in Ghana to portray persons with disabilities in a manner consistent with the UN Convention on the rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Disability Law, Act 715. However, media personnel should recognized the value existence and potential contribution being made by persons with disabilities to the overall wellbeing and diversity of their communities and promote their skills, merits and abilities and contributions to the workplace and the labour market rather than putting them into public ridicule.
GBC END IA/
The Network of Journalists for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Africa-Ghana Chapter(PROMOAFRICA) has condemn the blatant attack unleashed on visually impaired persons in Ghana by Kwame Dzokoto,a television personality and a presenter of Hello FM in Kumasi during the just ended MTN nominee Jam at the Takoradi Polytechnic Park. This was contained in a release signed by the Local Chapter President of the Network, Mr Seth K.Addi. According to the release on March 16, 2010, Mr Dzokoto who was serving as the Master of Ceremony (MC) for the said event, asked his audience who were wearing spectacles to remove them because to him they look like blind men. To the Network this statement is in contravention to article 37(1) and (2) of the Disability Act, 2006(Act715) which clearly states that ‘a person shall not call a person with disability derogatory names due to the state of disability of the person. a person who contravenes subsection 1 of the act commits an offence and is liable on summary to a fine not exceeding penalty units or a term of imprisonment not exceeding three months or to both. The Network is therefore demanding an apology from Mr Dzokoto through the Ghana Federation of the Disabled to all visually impaired persons, who are greatly offended with his unguided statement with the intention of putting persons with disabilities into public ridicule. The Network has also threatened legal action against Mr Dzokoto if he fails to render the apology. It is also appealing to all media practitioners in Ghana to portray persons with disabilities in a manner consistent with the UN Convention on the rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Disability Law, Act 715. However, media personnel should recognized the value existence and potential contribution being made by persons with disabilities to the overall wellbeing and diversity of their communities and promote their skills, merits and abilities and contributions to the workplace and the labour market rather than putting them into public ridicule.
GBC END IA/
Tuesday, 16 March 2010
Tongo District to Receive 16,000 Exercise Books Soon
16-03-2010 Tongo District to Receive 16,000 Exercise Books Soon
Basic schools at Tongo in the Talensi-Nabdam District of the Upper East Region would soon benefit from 16,000 exercise books under the Government books policy to be distributed to schools in the district. The District Director of Education, Mr. Francis Ayaba who made this known in an interview with Radio Ghana said the move is in pursuance of government commitment to making basic education accessible to all through the provision of teaching and learning aids. He commended government for its outstanding role in the provision of school uniforms to pupils in most deprived areas across the country, stressing that school enrolment in most rural areas over the last few years has increased tremendously due to prudent educational policies and programmes such as the Capitation grant, school feeding programme, provision of free text books, amenities and infrastructure among others. Mr Ayaba thanked the past and present governments for instituting such interventional and pro poor policies for the development of education in the country and called on the government to help extend these policies to more poverty stricken areas in the region in order to enhance school enrolment and retention towards achieving the Millennium Development Goal by 2015. He also commended teachers in the area for their hard work and sacrifices and encourage them to put up their best since more incentive packages awaits them as stated by the President, Professor John Evans Atta Mills in this year’s state of the nation address. Mr Ayaba further revealed that a good number of teachers with the support of the educational directorate have undergone in-service training to enhance their teaching skills. This, he said, forms part of the assembly’s effort to improving teaching and learning among students and teachers in the district. He cautioned all school going children in the district to desist from attending funerals, festivals, parties and other recreational activities at the neglect of their studies and indicated that as future leaders, they need concentration and broad base knowledge to enable them contribute meaningfully to the developmental drive of the country.
GBC END IA/
Basic schools at Tongo in the Talensi-Nabdam District of the Upper East Region would soon benefit from 16,000 exercise books under the Government books policy to be distributed to schools in the district. The District Director of Education, Mr. Francis Ayaba who made this known in an interview with Radio Ghana said the move is in pursuance of government commitment to making basic education accessible to all through the provision of teaching and learning aids. He commended government for its outstanding role in the provision of school uniforms to pupils in most deprived areas across the country, stressing that school enrolment in most rural areas over the last few years has increased tremendously due to prudent educational policies and programmes such as the Capitation grant, school feeding programme, provision of free text books, amenities and infrastructure among others. Mr Ayaba thanked the past and present governments for instituting such interventional and pro poor policies for the development of education in the country and called on the government to help extend these policies to more poverty stricken areas in the region in order to enhance school enrolment and retention towards achieving the Millennium Development Goal by 2015. He also commended teachers in the area for their hard work and sacrifices and encourage them to put up their best since more incentive packages awaits them as stated by the President, Professor John Evans Atta Mills in this year’s state of the nation address. Mr Ayaba further revealed that a good number of teachers with the support of the educational directorate have undergone in-service training to enhance their teaching skills. This, he said, forms part of the assembly’s effort to improving teaching and learning among students and teachers in the district. He cautioned all school going children in the district to desist from attending funerals, festivals, parties and other recreational activities at the neglect of their studies and indicated that as future leaders, they need concentration and broad base knowledge to enable them contribute meaningfully to the developmental drive of the country.
GBC END IA/
More Infrastructure for Basic Schools -DCE
16-03-2010 More Infrastructure for Basic Schools -DCE
The Talensi-Nabdam District Chief Executive, Vivian Anarfo has reaffirmed government’s commitment to providing basic logistics and infrastructure in all basic schools across the country to enhance teaching and learning. In line with this set objective, the assembly has therefore instituted pragmatic measures to systematically tackle the problem of inadequate school blocks and infrastructure for most schools in the district. The problem, Mrs Anarfo said, has persisted over the years compelling pupils in some basic schools to study under trees,in overcrowded structures with others lying on their stomach to read and write. Mrs Anarfo, who was speaking in an interview with Radio Ghana, further stated that the assembly has taken notice of the state of disrepair and congestions in schools in the area and is committed to providing more educational infrastructures in these schools. She reiterated the need for the people to exercise restraint since this motive cannot be achieved without monetary and logistical and human support. Mrs Anarfo also bemoaned the increasing spate of child trafficking, illegal migration down south, girl’s withdrawal from school for marriage and other related child abuse cases, describing the situation as worrisome. She, however advised parents to make their wards education their number one priority. This according to her is imperative since education is the bedrock of every society. Mrs Anarfo who also expressed serious concern about certain negative cultural practices of the people that hinder Girl-Child Education compared to the boys, adding that school enrolment among girls in the district is nothing to write home about. Some are forced to drop out from school due to pregnancies, inferiority complex and pressure from their parents to enter into marriage as a result of ignorance and poverty. Mrs Anarfo charged parents to put premium on the education of their girl child, indicating that there are more benefits parents could derive from the education of their girl child when they are allowed to achieve higher education.
GBC END IA/
The Talensi-Nabdam District Chief Executive, Vivian Anarfo has reaffirmed government’s commitment to providing basic logistics and infrastructure in all basic schools across the country to enhance teaching and learning. In line with this set objective, the assembly has therefore instituted pragmatic measures to systematically tackle the problem of inadequate school blocks and infrastructure for most schools in the district. The problem, Mrs Anarfo said, has persisted over the years compelling pupils in some basic schools to study under trees,in overcrowded structures with others lying on their stomach to read and write. Mrs Anarfo, who was speaking in an interview with Radio Ghana, further stated that the assembly has taken notice of the state of disrepair and congestions in schools in the area and is committed to providing more educational infrastructures in these schools. She reiterated the need for the people to exercise restraint since this motive cannot be achieved without monetary and logistical and human support. Mrs Anarfo also bemoaned the increasing spate of child trafficking, illegal migration down south, girl’s withdrawal from school for marriage and other related child abuse cases, describing the situation as worrisome. She, however advised parents to make their wards education their number one priority. This according to her is imperative since education is the bedrock of every society. Mrs Anarfo who also expressed serious concern about certain negative cultural practices of the people that hinder Girl-Child Education compared to the boys, adding that school enrolment among girls in the district is nothing to write home about. Some are forced to drop out from school due to pregnancies, inferiority complex and pressure from their parents to enter into marriage as a result of ignorance and poverty. Mrs Anarfo charged parents to put premium on the education of their girl child, indicating that there are more benefits parents could derive from the education of their girl child when they are allowed to achieve higher education.
GBC END IA/
Thursday, 11 March 2010
Disability Training Workshop Ends in Kumasi
Ghana today
06-03-2010 Disability Training Workshop Ends in Kumasi
Narration: The Network of Journalists for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Africa, Ghana Chapter in partnership with the Ghana Federation of the Disabled and Mind Freedom Ghana with support from the Disability Right Fund, have organized a one-day training workshop for some selected media practitioners across the country. The programme which took place in Kumasi sought to sensitize journalists on the urgent need to championing the cause of persons with disabilities through responsible media reportage. Isaac Asare reports for Ghana today.
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The training seminar, attended by journalists drawn from the various regions across the country was also geared towards the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability (UNCRPD) and the passage of the Ghana Mental Health Bill. The forum also sought to educate the masses and the media, a better understanding of the convention and the Ghana Mental Health bill and its related issues and also expose journalists to the fundamental human rights of persons with disabilities including the mentally ill. A Human Right Advocate and Past President ,Ghana Federation of the disabled, Mr. Charles Appiagyei, in a presentation, enumerated some underlying principles governing the convention, adding that the bill when successfully passed would help promote human dignity ,respect, equal opportunities and accessibilities as well as non discrimination of persons with disabilities in Ghana and Africa as a whole. Mr. Appiagyei said persons with disabilities are not seen regularly in the media and are rarely portrayed with persons with opinions on news and topical issues, stressing that, the plight, challenges and responsibilities affecting persons with disabilities have relegated to the background for years and therefore challenged the media as the mouthpiece of the populace to play a leading role in combating stereotypes, prejudices and harmful practices subjected to persons with disabilities to help empower them in all spheres. He recommended responsible media reportage on issues affecting persons with disabilities as one of the surest ways at which the rights of these persons can be respected and empowered. The Executive Secretary of Mindfreedom, Ghana Mr Dan Pylor stressed the need for the passage of the Mental Health Bill since it contains provisions protecting basic human rights, adding that most people with psychological disabilities are marginalized and are not accorded their fundamental human rights. He said the bill takes into accounts full human rights recognitions and protection of people with mental disorders and also ensure they are fully respected. More so, allocation of resources including logistic, finance and human resource are guaranteed and well catered for by the Mental Health board, unit and division that the bill will create. It will also recognize the role of traditional and faith healers to utilize them in mental health care through regulating the activities to ensuring that they conform to every letter of the law. Mr. Pylor revealed that under the new law, persons with mental disorders will be registered under the National Health Insurance Scheme to enable them access health care, emphasizing that mental health care shall be financed by the scheme. In accordance to this, parliament would also provide not less that 8 percent of the health budget to finance mental health care. In view of this people with mental disorders would be treated with the same standard as people without disorders. This will ensure non-discrimination in dispatching treatment to people with mental health disorders at any point in time. According to Mr Pylor, mental illness affects everyone and one out of every four people will become mentally ill at some point in time in life. He therefore urged the public to show love compassion for persons with mental disorders to help effect positive changes in their behaviour. The Director of Mindfreedom Ghana, Nii Lartey Addico, in response to some of the questions posed by participants, defined mental illness as anything that affects a persons thoughts, emotions or behaviour that results in a negative effect on the person or those around him. He noted that prominent among the several causes of mental illness are the use of illicit drugs and substances, depression, frustration, excessive alcohol intake among others and cautioned the youth against such practices. Mr. Addico also encourage the various district assemblies to also advocate for the integration of the mental health activities into their assemblies’ medium term development plans by making budgetary allocation to cater for their welfare and development. As a media representative from URA Radio, Bolgatanga, it is my fervent hope and expectation that the said bills would be successfully passed to ensure equality for all. I will therefore also entreat the public to picture persons with disabilities as part of the general public for disability is not a barrier to progress. The media on the other hand should also play a leading role in the empowerment of persons with disabilities and the mentally sick. Let us all promote the right and dignity of persons with disabilities and mental disorders in the country From Kumasi in the Ashanti Region this has been Isaac Asare reporting for Ghana today.
06-03-2010 Disability Training Workshop Ends in Kumasi
Narration: The Network of Journalists for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Africa, Ghana Chapter in partnership with the Ghana Federation of the Disabled and Mind Freedom Ghana with support from the Disability Right Fund, have organized a one-day training workshop for some selected media practitioners across the country. The programme which took place in Kumasi sought to sensitize journalists on the urgent need to championing the cause of persons with disabilities through responsible media reportage. Isaac Asare reports for Ghana today.
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The training seminar, attended by journalists drawn from the various regions across the country was also geared towards the ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability (UNCRPD) and the passage of the Ghana Mental Health Bill. The forum also sought to educate the masses and the media, a better understanding of the convention and the Ghana Mental Health bill and its related issues and also expose journalists to the fundamental human rights of persons with disabilities including the mentally ill. A Human Right Advocate and Past President ,Ghana Federation of the disabled, Mr. Charles Appiagyei, in a presentation, enumerated some underlying principles governing the convention, adding that the bill when successfully passed would help promote human dignity ,respect, equal opportunities and accessibilities as well as non discrimination of persons with disabilities in Ghana and Africa as a whole. Mr. Appiagyei said persons with disabilities are not seen regularly in the media and are rarely portrayed with persons with opinions on news and topical issues, stressing that, the plight, challenges and responsibilities affecting persons with disabilities have relegated to the background for years and therefore challenged the media as the mouthpiece of the populace to play a leading role in combating stereotypes, prejudices and harmful practices subjected to persons with disabilities to help empower them in all spheres. He recommended responsible media reportage on issues affecting persons with disabilities as one of the surest ways at which the rights of these persons can be respected and empowered. The Executive Secretary of Mindfreedom, Ghana Mr Dan Pylor stressed the need for the passage of the Mental Health Bill since it contains provisions protecting basic human rights, adding that most people with psychological disabilities are marginalized and are not accorded their fundamental human rights. He said the bill takes into accounts full human rights recognitions and protection of people with mental disorders and also ensure they are fully respected. More so, allocation of resources including logistic, finance and human resource are guaranteed and well catered for by the Mental Health board, unit and division that the bill will create. It will also recognize the role of traditional and faith healers to utilize them in mental health care through regulating the activities to ensuring that they conform to every letter of the law. Mr. Pylor revealed that under the new law, persons with mental disorders will be registered under the National Health Insurance Scheme to enable them access health care, emphasizing that mental health care shall be financed by the scheme. In accordance to this, parliament would also provide not less that 8 percent of the health budget to finance mental health care. In view of this people with mental disorders would be treated with the same standard as people without disorders. This will ensure non-discrimination in dispatching treatment to people with mental health disorders at any point in time. According to Mr Pylor, mental illness affects everyone and one out of every four people will become mentally ill at some point in time in life. He therefore urged the public to show love compassion for persons with mental disorders to help effect positive changes in their behaviour. The Director of Mindfreedom Ghana, Nii Lartey Addico, in response to some of the questions posed by participants, defined mental illness as anything that affects a persons thoughts, emotions or behaviour that results in a negative effect on the person or those around him. He noted that prominent among the several causes of mental illness are the use of illicit drugs and substances, depression, frustration, excessive alcohol intake among others and cautioned the youth against such practices. Mr. Addico also encourage the various district assemblies to also advocate for the integration of the mental health activities into their assemblies’ medium term development plans by making budgetary allocation to cater for their welfare and development. As a media representative from URA Radio, Bolgatanga, it is my fervent hope and expectation that the said bills would be successfully passed to ensure equality for all. I will therefore also entreat the public to picture persons with disabilities as part of the general public for disability is not a barrier to progress. The media on the other hand should also play a leading role in the empowerment of persons with disabilities and the mentally sick. Let us all promote the right and dignity of persons with disabilities and mental disorders in the country From Kumasi in the Ashanti Region this has been Isaac Asare reporting for Ghana today.
Bolgatanga Observes International Women’s Day
11-03-10 Bolgatanga Observes International Women’s Day
Narration: Ghanaians have been urged to lend their support to women who express their desire to contest for the upcoming District Assembly Elections in order to motivate and empower them politically. This would ensure that women get a fairly good representation at the local level. The upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo who made the call in a speech read on his behalf advised the general public to discard all party affiliations by rallying behind women to help them attain higher political levels. He said this at the 2010 International Women’s Day Celebration held at Bolgatanga on the theme ”Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for all.” Isaac Asare has the rest of the story for Radio Ghana.
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The programme which was organized by ActionAid, Ghana Upper East Development Programme (AAGUEDP), brought together interest groups, women right groups, chiefs, political representatives, civil society organizations, as well as NGOs. The International Women’s Day which falls on March 8 each year is celebrated by many countries around the world in recognition for women’s achievements and accomplishments in all spheres of life without regard to divisions. It is also an occasion in remembrance of past struggles and most importantly for looking ahead to the untapped potential and opportunities that await future generations of women. The day was first observed in the United States in 1909 by some aggrieved women, who went on a protest march against their working conditions. Mr. Mark Woyongo, in a speech read for him, laid emphasis on the relevance of the day, adding that the day has come as a wake up call to addressing the challenges confronting women worldwide and also to reflect on progress being made by women who through dint of hard work have exhibited acts of courage and determination in the history of our communities and countries in general. Mr. Woyongo was happy about the gradual reduction of some socio-cultural and dehumanizing practices meted out to women in the region and thanked the various traditional rulers for their contribution in ensuring that domestic violence and practices such as excision and widowhood rites among others are wiped out from the traditional societies to pave way for women empowerment. Mr. Woyongo also called on all Ghanaians to rally their support for women in the upcoming district assembly elections, since women representatives in District Assemblies had always been low over the years. A Representative of ActionAid Ghana, Sulemana Alhassan, said available statistics still indicates lower percentage of women in leadership and decision making processes particularly Upper East, where women are considered as the poor and vulnerable. This, he said, are as a result of the high incidence of domestic violence and other harmful cultural practices. He therefore challenged women to take the mantle of leadership through participation of local government elections as a head way in building strong credentials for themselves and the society. Mr Sulemana appealed to the government and the various district assemblies to help equipped women with financial and logistic support to champion their cause.
Narration: Ghanaians have been urged to lend their support to women who express their desire to contest for the upcoming District Assembly Elections in order to motivate and empower them politically. This would ensure that women get a fairly good representation at the local level. The upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo who made the call in a speech read on his behalf advised the general public to discard all party affiliations by rallying behind women to help them attain higher political levels. He said this at the 2010 International Women’s Day Celebration held at Bolgatanga on the theme ”Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for all.” Isaac Asare has the rest of the story for Radio Ghana.
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ANCR V/O
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The programme which was organized by ActionAid, Ghana Upper East Development Programme (AAGUEDP), brought together interest groups, women right groups, chiefs, political representatives, civil society organizations, as well as NGOs. The International Women’s Day which falls on March 8 each year is celebrated by many countries around the world in recognition for women’s achievements and accomplishments in all spheres of life without regard to divisions. It is also an occasion in remembrance of past struggles and most importantly for looking ahead to the untapped potential and opportunities that await future generations of women. The day was first observed in the United States in 1909 by some aggrieved women, who went on a protest march against their working conditions. Mr. Mark Woyongo, in a speech read for him, laid emphasis on the relevance of the day, adding that the day has come as a wake up call to addressing the challenges confronting women worldwide and also to reflect on progress being made by women who through dint of hard work have exhibited acts of courage and determination in the history of our communities and countries in general. Mr. Woyongo was happy about the gradual reduction of some socio-cultural and dehumanizing practices meted out to women in the region and thanked the various traditional rulers for their contribution in ensuring that domestic violence and practices such as excision and widowhood rites among others are wiped out from the traditional societies to pave way for women empowerment. Mr. Woyongo also called on all Ghanaians to rally their support for women in the upcoming district assembly elections, since women representatives in District Assemblies had always been low over the years. A Representative of ActionAid Ghana, Sulemana Alhassan, said available statistics still indicates lower percentage of women in leadership and decision making processes particularly Upper East, where women are considered as the poor and vulnerable. This, he said, are as a result of the high incidence of domestic violence and other harmful cultural practices. He therefore challenged women to take the mantle of leadership through participation of local government elections as a head way in building strong credentials for themselves and the society. Mr Sulemana appealed to the government and the various district assemblies to help equipped women with financial and logistic support to champion their cause.
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