30-03-2011
Government believes that the role of teachers is very important and will therefore not relent on its efforts to ensuring their wellbeing in society. To this end, government is making frantic effort to correct all anomalies that characterized teachers’ salary in their migration onto the single spine salary structure. Given the assurance in an interview with Radio Ghana in Navrongo, the Deputy Director General, Quality and Access at the Ministry of Education, Mr. Stephen Adu, said government is on course in ensuring that teachers are not made worse off with regards to the single spine pay policy, stressing that efforts are being made to rectify all distortions associated with their salaries. Mr. Adu urged teachers to exercise restraint and also corporate with the government and the authorities working on the pay policy so that progress would be made. According to him it might take some time to regain all that is lost as a result of their absence from the classroom, saying, at the end of the day the Ghanaian child suffers the consequences. Teachers’ action, he lamented, tends to push the development of the county’s educational sector backwards and therefore entreated teachers to engage the authorities in a manner that can help drive the country’s education on a high pedestal. He assured teachers of government’s support and disclosed that serious discussions would from next month begin on all other allowances that they have put forward. Meanwhile, an official statement signed by the Deputy Minister of Information, Baba Jamal Ahmed, indicates that all personnel within the Ghana Education Service (GES) who qualify for the 15 per cent Retention Premium agreed with the government earlier this month, will enjoy it alongside their March salaries to be paid in the first week of April. According to the statement government is pleased to announce that the negotiating team has completed work on the teachers' salaries and the anomalies that characterized GES under the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS) have been rectified. It further stated that no personnel within the GES had as yet received his or her March salary, contrary to reports that teachers had been paid their March salaries without the 15 per cent Retention Premium.
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Wednesday, 30 March 2011
Monday, 28 March 2011
“NAVASCO- 50 years of True Light”
27-03-2011
Narration: The Vice President, John Dramani Mahama says government recognizing the importance of education in the country, has channeled a lot of resources into the educational sector and would not leave any stone unturned to see to the total transformation of the educational sector into a veritably tool for the development of knowledge –based economy. This assurance was contained in a speech read by the Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen Joseph Henry Smith at the occasion of the Golden Jubilee Anniversary celebration of the Navrongo Senior High School at Navrongo in the Kassena-Nankana District of the Upper East Region. The historical event which was on the theme: “ Navasco, 50 years of True light” attracted a number of dignitaries including the communication Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, MP for Navrongo Central ,Kofi Addah, as well as a host of other important personalities from the educational sector. Here is a report by Isaac Asare
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The Navrongo Senior High school popularly known as ‘NAVASCO’ will forever remember Ghana’s first President , the late Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah as he wrote in the school’s visitors’ book on the day of its establishment, ‘’This school has a great future, I shall watch it progress with great interest”. These words from Dr. Nkrumah has left an indelibly virtue as the school continues to grow from strength to strength. Established fifty years ago on October, 26, 1960, with the motto” Lux Borealis, meaning the “Light of the North” NAVASCO has produced the greatest light that has illuminated the whole country. The school presently has 5 ministers of state serving the Mills administration and 14 parliamentarians with many others also blazing the trail in the high echelons of the public services in Ghana. The school now with a student population of 1,680 and 75 teaching staff humbly began as a mixed school with 97 students and four teaching staff including the first headmaster Rev. J.K Fiergbor. Moreover, the celebration of its Golden Jubilee marks a significant milestone in the history of the school. Delivering a speech on behalf of the Vice President, the Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Joseph Smith commended the school for its sterling academic performance over the years and subsequently, producing very skilled and responsible citizens in the various fields of endeavours. He described the theme for the occasion as appropriate since the school has impacted positively on the lives of its products. Lt. Gen. Smith was however not happy about the recent development of student unrest among some second cycle schools in the region, and Navrongo in particular, and called on students to be disciplined at all times and also channel their grievances through the appropriate quarters for redress and not resort to violent behaviours since it retards the progress of the school. He also urged the P.T.A and the school authorities to put their shoulders to the wheels in order to build upon the niche carved by the school. Lt. Gen. Smith noted that government in its quest to revamp the educational sector would not relent on its effort to transform the sector into a variable tool for development of a knowledge –based economy, and however assured the school of an ultra modern ICT centre, new science laboratory, a home economic block and a new girl’s dormitory. This, he explained, is essential since the policy of government has been to increase the enrolment of girls in schools as a way of empowering them to achieve their fullest potentials in society. He assured government’s continues support for the school and pledged to ensure that projects enumerated by the school are adequately catered for in the next budget. The Headmaster of the school, Mr. Patrick Tangonyiri, on his part, outlined a number of challenges facing the school and mentioned lack of discipline among students, inadequate funds for the construction of a fence wall for the school and inadequate supply of water as some of the major challenges. Mr. Tangonyiri therefore called on the support of individuals and organizations to assist government in that regard. He acknowledged the academic credentials of school since its inception and called on students to remain focus and discipline to achieve their desired goals. Awards in the form of citation were given to deserving past head teachers of the school, notably among them was the former headmaster, Mr. Collin Macdonald who serve the school from 1969-1980. Other deserving staffs and students also received awards of various kinds for their sterling academic performance. An amount of 70,000 Ghana Cedis was later realized at the end of an appeal for fund organized for the school. The MP for the area, Kofi Adda, provided the school with a set of brass band instruments and urged the school to call on him for any assistance due necessary. some past students of the school also contrituted their quota to assist their alma mater.
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Narration: The Vice President, John Dramani Mahama says government recognizing the importance of education in the country, has channeled a lot of resources into the educational sector and would not leave any stone unturned to see to the total transformation of the educational sector into a veritably tool for the development of knowledge –based economy. This assurance was contained in a speech read by the Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen Joseph Henry Smith at the occasion of the Golden Jubilee Anniversary celebration of the Navrongo Senior High School at Navrongo in the Kassena-Nankana District of the Upper East Region. The historical event which was on the theme: “ Navasco, 50 years of True light” attracted a number of dignitaries including the communication Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, MP for Navrongo Central ,Kofi Addah, as well as a host of other important personalities from the educational sector. Here is a report by Isaac Asare
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The Navrongo Senior High school popularly known as ‘NAVASCO’ will forever remember Ghana’s first President , the late Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah as he wrote in the school’s visitors’ book on the day of its establishment, ‘’This school has a great future, I shall watch it progress with great interest”. These words from Dr. Nkrumah has left an indelibly virtue as the school continues to grow from strength to strength. Established fifty years ago on October, 26, 1960, with the motto” Lux Borealis, meaning the “Light of the North” NAVASCO has produced the greatest light that has illuminated the whole country. The school presently has 5 ministers of state serving the Mills administration and 14 parliamentarians with many others also blazing the trail in the high echelons of the public services in Ghana. The school now with a student population of 1,680 and 75 teaching staff humbly began as a mixed school with 97 students and four teaching staff including the first headmaster Rev. J.K Fiergbor. Moreover, the celebration of its Golden Jubilee marks a significant milestone in the history of the school. Delivering a speech on behalf of the Vice President, the Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Joseph Smith commended the school for its sterling academic performance over the years and subsequently, producing very skilled and responsible citizens in the various fields of endeavours. He described the theme for the occasion as appropriate since the school has impacted positively on the lives of its products. Lt. Gen. Smith was however not happy about the recent development of student unrest among some second cycle schools in the region, and Navrongo in particular, and called on students to be disciplined at all times and also channel their grievances through the appropriate quarters for redress and not resort to violent behaviours since it retards the progress of the school. He also urged the P.T.A and the school authorities to put their shoulders to the wheels in order to build upon the niche carved by the school. Lt. Gen. Smith noted that government in its quest to revamp the educational sector would not relent on its effort to transform the sector into a variable tool for development of a knowledge –based economy, and however assured the school of an ultra modern ICT centre, new science laboratory, a home economic block and a new girl’s dormitory. This, he explained, is essential since the policy of government has been to increase the enrolment of girls in schools as a way of empowering them to achieve their fullest potentials in society. He assured government’s continues support for the school and pledged to ensure that projects enumerated by the school are adequately catered for in the next budget. The Headmaster of the school, Mr. Patrick Tangonyiri, on his part, outlined a number of challenges facing the school and mentioned lack of discipline among students, inadequate funds for the construction of a fence wall for the school and inadequate supply of water as some of the major challenges. Mr. Tangonyiri therefore called on the support of individuals and organizations to assist government in that regard. He acknowledged the academic credentials of school since its inception and called on students to remain focus and discipline to achieve their desired goals. Awards in the form of citation were given to deserving past head teachers of the school, notably among them was the former headmaster, Mr. Collin Macdonald who serve the school from 1969-1980. Other deserving staffs and students also received awards of various kinds for their sterling academic performance. An amount of 70,000 Ghana Cedis was later realized at the end of an appeal for fund organized for the school. The MP for the area, Kofi Adda, provided the school with a set of brass band instruments and urged the school to call on him for any assistance due necessary. some past students of the school also contrituted their quota to assist their alma mater.
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Friday, 25 March 2011
Mills working Visit to the Upper East
25-03-2011
A sod cutting ceremony for the commencement of various developmental projects for the Upper East Region will today be spearheaded by his Excellency, Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, as part of his two day working visit to the region. The Visit of the President also forms part of his regional tour to cut sod for work to begin on developmental projects earmarked for construction. Consequently, the President will take the opportunity to interact with the regional minister, District Chief Executives as well as other heads of decentralized departments on issues of national interest. Reliable information reaching Radio Ghana indicates that the President will break grounds for the construction of a 3 million Ghana Cedi modern assembly hall complex for the University of Development Studies (UDS) at Navrongo in the Kassena-Nankana East District and also cut sod for the construction for the drilling of boreholes in the Bawku municipality and its surroundings. At Nakolo, Prof Mills will facilitate the commencement of an electrification programme and moreover, ensure the construction of steel bridges among other projects for the region. With regards to road network, Prof Mills will cut sod for work to begin on an 8.5 kilometer Navrongo-Nayagnia-Mirigu road as well as a 10 kilometer Tempane-Yabrago-Woriyanga road to open up the road network in the region. The President is also due to cut sod for work to begin on the construction of a state of the art sports complex for the region. The modern sports complex which is estimated to cost about a 100,000 dollars will comprise of a volleyball court, a tennis court and a basket ball court to help promote sports in the region. The project which was faced with the problem of land acquisition will finally be placed at the premises of the Bolgatanga Girl’s Senior High School to serve both the communities and the school. Prof. Mills will also take time to inspect some ongoing projects in the region to assess their level of development and moreover, put in place measures to ensure their speedy completion. The President is also schedule to visit 4 other regions to undertake such similar projects.
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A sod cutting ceremony for the commencement of various developmental projects for the Upper East Region will today be spearheaded by his Excellency, Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, as part of his two day working visit to the region. The Visit of the President also forms part of his regional tour to cut sod for work to begin on developmental projects earmarked for construction. Consequently, the President will take the opportunity to interact with the regional minister, District Chief Executives as well as other heads of decentralized departments on issues of national interest. Reliable information reaching Radio Ghana indicates that the President will break grounds for the construction of a 3 million Ghana Cedi modern assembly hall complex for the University of Development Studies (UDS) at Navrongo in the Kassena-Nankana East District and also cut sod for the construction for the drilling of boreholes in the Bawku municipality and its surroundings. At Nakolo, Prof Mills will facilitate the commencement of an electrification programme and moreover, ensure the construction of steel bridges among other projects for the region. With regards to road network, Prof Mills will cut sod for work to begin on an 8.5 kilometer Navrongo-Nayagnia-Mirigu road as well as a 10 kilometer Tempane-Yabrago-Woriyanga road to open up the road network in the region. The President is also due to cut sod for work to begin on the construction of a state of the art sports complex for the region. The modern sports complex which is estimated to cost about a 100,000 dollars will comprise of a volleyball court, a tennis court and a basket ball court to help promote sports in the region. The project which was faced with the problem of land acquisition will finally be placed at the premises of the Bolgatanga Girl’s Senior High School to serve both the communities and the school. Prof. Mills will also take time to inspect some ongoing projects in the region to assess their level of development and moreover, put in place measures to ensure their speedy completion. The President is also schedule to visit 4 other regions to undertake such similar projects.
GBC END IA/
Bawku MCE Addresses Bawku Student Union of UDS, Navrongo Campus
Narration: The youth in Bawku has been advised to complement the efforts of the government and other interventional key stakeholders in the Bawku peace process in ensuring that the area continue to enjoy relative peace devoid of retaliatory tendencies. The Bawku Municipal Chief Executive, Musah Abdullai, who made the call neither said though the area has not recorded any unrest for the past few months, it is incumbent on the youth as future leaders to find amicable solutions to the long protracted chieftaincy conflict that has characterized the area since the late 50’s. According to him, the youth in Bawku with the support of other stakeholders including the security agencies has a leading role to play in resolving the conflict since they have been identified as the main causal agents involved in the conflict. Mr. Abdullai was addressing members of the Bawku Student Union (BSU) of the University of Development Studies (UDS), Navrongo campus, during a handing over ceremony of its old and new executives. Here is a report by Isaac Asare for Radio Ghana.
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The occasion which was on the theme: Peace Building in Bawku, the role of tertiary students attracted some lecturers and candidates vying for the school’s SRC president among other positions. Mr. Abdullai advised members of the union to take up the challenge in unraveling the mystery behind the Bawku chieftaincy conflict and be part of the solution by educating the public on the need to be involved in the peace process. He pointed out that the future of Bawku solely lies in the hands of the youth since the use of violent behaviours and retaliatory tendencies are not key solution in settling the Bawku unpass. The MCE therefore challenged the youth in Bawku to iron out their differences and smoke the peace pipe to ensure speedy development in the area. Many people including non-natives of the area had fled to other neighboring towns and villages due to the incessant conflict. Business activities, in the once vibrant Bawku township, he noted, had been greatly affected by the conflict, compelling the assembly to lose millions of cedis in its revenue mobilization. Other innocent citizens including public sector workers he noted sought transfer to other areas to works as a result of the conflict. This he said has compelled other workers not to accept postings to the area to work. Mr Abdullai, however called on the youth to use the right institutions to solve problems and moreover, channel their grievances through effective dialogue and deliberations since dialogue is the key to resolving conflict. To the executives, Mr. Abdullai, called on the leadership of the union to exercise their roles effectively and not ride over people who voted them into power stressing that leadership is not power but rather a service to humanity and a call to duty. He also encouraged the leadership of the union to serve their, members diligently and exhibit leadership qualities worthy of emulation. He identified social networking and good working relations as some of the key interventions necessary in achieving success in leadership and charged the leaders to work assiduously towards that. He assured members of the union of an open door administration and urged them to forward their ideas and grievances for consideration and assistance. He urged members to unite and stay focus in achieving their set objectives. The Bawku MCE and the Bawku West District Chief Executive, Mr. Adam Moro, jointly made cash donated of 4,000 Ghana Cedis during an appeal for fund towards the development and sustainability of the union. The incoming President of the Union later commended the MCE for his exemplary leadership and urged him to him work tirelessly towards achieving relative peace in Bawku. He also on behalf of the union appealed to the MCE to assist brilliant but needy students in Bawku and also help make the education of the girl child in the area his topmost priority.
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The occasion which was on the theme: Peace Building in Bawku, the role of tertiary students attracted some lecturers and candidates vying for the school’s SRC president among other positions. Mr. Abdullai advised members of the union to take up the challenge in unraveling the mystery behind the Bawku chieftaincy conflict and be part of the solution by educating the public on the need to be involved in the peace process. He pointed out that the future of Bawku solely lies in the hands of the youth since the use of violent behaviours and retaliatory tendencies are not key solution in settling the Bawku unpass. The MCE therefore challenged the youth in Bawku to iron out their differences and smoke the peace pipe to ensure speedy development in the area. Many people including non-natives of the area had fled to other neighboring towns and villages due to the incessant conflict. Business activities, in the once vibrant Bawku township, he noted, had been greatly affected by the conflict, compelling the assembly to lose millions of cedis in its revenue mobilization. Other innocent citizens including public sector workers he noted sought transfer to other areas to works as a result of the conflict. This he said has compelled other workers not to accept postings to the area to work. Mr Abdullai, however called on the youth to use the right institutions to solve problems and moreover, channel their grievances through effective dialogue and deliberations since dialogue is the key to resolving conflict. To the executives, Mr. Abdullai, called on the leadership of the union to exercise their roles effectively and not ride over people who voted them into power stressing that leadership is not power but rather a service to humanity and a call to duty. He also encouraged the leadership of the union to serve their, members diligently and exhibit leadership qualities worthy of emulation. He identified social networking and good working relations as some of the key interventions necessary in achieving success in leadership and charged the leaders to work assiduously towards that. He assured members of the union of an open door administration and urged them to forward their ideas and grievances for consideration and assistance. He urged members to unite and stay focus in achieving their set objectives. The Bawku MCE and the Bawku West District Chief Executive, Mr. Adam Moro, jointly made cash donated of 4,000 Ghana Cedis during an appeal for fund towards the development and sustainability of the union. The incoming President of the Union later commended the MCE for his exemplary leadership and urged him to him work tirelessly towards achieving relative peace in Bawku. He also on behalf of the union appealed to the MCE to assist brilliant but needy students in Bawku and also help make the education of the girl child in the area his topmost priority.
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Desist from smoking and drinking to avoid childhood disability- Pregnant women urged
18-03-2011
Narration: Women across the country have been cautioned against un-subscribed drug intake as well as smoking and drinking during pregnancy to prevent their unborn children from acquiring various forms of disability. Consequently pregnant women should make it imperative to frequently attend antenatal care at the various health facilities to help reduce the risk of disabilities during birth. The Upper East Programmes Coordinator Prevention of Childhood Disability, Majolein Meande Baltussen gave the advice at a community sensitization durbar held for the chiefs and people of Avosum, a farming community in the Garu-Tempane District of the Upper East Region. Here is report by Isaac Asare.
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The event which was jointly organized under the Presbyterian Disability Programme of the Northern Presbytery, Bolgatanga and the Presbyterian Community Based Rehabilitation for Persons with Disability in Garu, forms part of measures aimed at preventing childhood disability in the region and Ghana in general. Addressing participants, Ms Baltussen disclosed that 75 percent of various childhood disabilities are preventable and therefore emphasized the need for women in pregnancy to take precautionary measures to ensure safe and skilled delivery devoid of disability. To her most children are being born with impairments which are caused by preventable problems during pregnancy or during childbirth whilst others acquire impairments during their early childhood due to trauma or disease. According to her, neglect and mismanagement of these childhood impairments could lead to lifelong disabilities hence the need for pregnant women to desist from negativities that could affect their unborn babies. To that effect, Ms Baltussen advised pregnant women make it a habit of delivering at the health facilities since most Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAS) lacks the basic tools, knowledge and practical skills to deal with complications during child birth. The activities of such unprofessional she noted contribute to childhood deformity and should not be condoned in any way. Specific steps with focus on early intervention in the prevention of childhood disability is the key to achieving good outcomes and explained that certain health problems when addressed quickly may nor result to impairment or a lifelong disability among children. She said children born out of disability should not be regarded as spirit children but should be rather accepted into the society to help promote inclusion at the community level. Ms Baltesuun advised pregnant women to stick to healthy lifestyles by taking iodized salts and local fruits and vegetables such as dawadawa, mangoes, amani and eggs to help ensure safre delivery. She also encouraged them to send their children to the health clinics to be immunized against the six killer diseases as a way of preventing childhood disability. The District Disease Control Officer, Thomas Atugba Abugbilla, took the opportunity to remind parents to prepare their children for immunization against polio which according to him would begin on March 24 nationwide. Mr. Abugbilla also encouraged the men to support in that regard since they play a vital role in the prevention of childhood disability. He urged them to assist their wives in times of pregnancy and should not subject them to practices that could lead to complications during delivery. Chiefs on the other hands were also advised to join in the awareness creation on the need to prevent childhood disability in their communities.
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Narration: Women across the country have been cautioned against un-subscribed drug intake as well as smoking and drinking during pregnancy to prevent their unborn children from acquiring various forms of disability. Consequently pregnant women should make it imperative to frequently attend antenatal care at the various health facilities to help reduce the risk of disabilities during birth. The Upper East Programmes Coordinator Prevention of Childhood Disability, Majolein Meande Baltussen gave the advice at a community sensitization durbar held for the chiefs and people of Avosum, a farming community in the Garu-Tempane District of the Upper East Region. Here is report by Isaac Asare.
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The event which was jointly organized under the Presbyterian Disability Programme of the Northern Presbytery, Bolgatanga and the Presbyterian Community Based Rehabilitation for Persons with Disability in Garu, forms part of measures aimed at preventing childhood disability in the region and Ghana in general. Addressing participants, Ms Baltussen disclosed that 75 percent of various childhood disabilities are preventable and therefore emphasized the need for women in pregnancy to take precautionary measures to ensure safe and skilled delivery devoid of disability. To her most children are being born with impairments which are caused by preventable problems during pregnancy or during childbirth whilst others acquire impairments during their early childhood due to trauma or disease. According to her, neglect and mismanagement of these childhood impairments could lead to lifelong disabilities hence the need for pregnant women to desist from negativities that could affect their unborn babies. To that effect, Ms Baltussen advised pregnant women make it a habit of delivering at the health facilities since most Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAS) lacks the basic tools, knowledge and practical skills to deal with complications during child birth. The activities of such unprofessional she noted contribute to childhood deformity and should not be condoned in any way. Specific steps with focus on early intervention in the prevention of childhood disability is the key to achieving good outcomes and explained that certain health problems when addressed quickly may nor result to impairment or a lifelong disability among children. She said children born out of disability should not be regarded as spirit children but should be rather accepted into the society to help promote inclusion at the community level. Ms Baltesuun advised pregnant women to stick to healthy lifestyles by taking iodized salts and local fruits and vegetables such as dawadawa, mangoes, amani and eggs to help ensure safre delivery. She also encouraged them to send their children to the health clinics to be immunized against the six killer diseases as a way of preventing childhood disability. The District Disease Control Officer, Thomas Atugba Abugbilla, took the opportunity to remind parents to prepare their children for immunization against polio which according to him would begin on March 24 nationwide. Mr. Abugbilla also encouraged the men to support in that regard since they play a vital role in the prevention of childhood disability. He urged them to assist their wives in times of pregnancy and should not subject them to practices that could lead to complications during delivery. Chiefs on the other hands were also advised to join in the awareness creation on the need to prevent childhood disability in their communities.
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President Mills to Visit Upper East
17-03-2011
President John Evan Attah Mills will from Friday, March 25 pay a two-day working visit to the Upper East Region to cut sod for work to commence on projects earmarked for construction in the region. The President’s visit forms part of his familiarization tour to 5 regions of the country to inspect ongoing developmental projects and also interact with ministers and DCEs on issues of development. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo who gave the hint in an interview with Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga said whilst in the region, the President will break grounds for the construction of a 3 million Ghana Cedi modern assembly hall complex for the University of Development Studies (UDS) at Navrongo in the Kassena-Nankana East District and also cut sod for the construction for the drilling of boreholes in the Bawku municipality and its surroundings. At Nakolo, Prof Mills will facilitate the commencement of an electrification programme and moreover, ensure the construction of steel bridges among other projects for the region. Throwing more light on the president’s visit, Mr. Woyongo disclosed that the region would soon be benefiting from the construction of 450 boreholes for most deprived communities under the Rural Electrification Project, of which additional fund would be sourced to extend the project to the rest of the communities. According to him a 100 million dollar loan facility had been secured to finance the drilling of more than 30 boreholes for the people of Chiana and its catchment area, adding that plans are far afoot to desilt, dredge and rehabilitate the various dams in the region to ensure all year round farming. Mr. Woyongo later expressed government’s determination to facilitate the development of northern Ghana and urged the people to exercise restaurants since government is on course to that effect.
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President John Evan Attah Mills will from Friday, March 25 pay a two-day working visit to the Upper East Region to cut sod for work to commence on projects earmarked for construction in the region. The President’s visit forms part of his familiarization tour to 5 regions of the country to inspect ongoing developmental projects and also interact with ministers and DCEs on issues of development. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo who gave the hint in an interview with Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga said whilst in the region, the President will break grounds for the construction of a 3 million Ghana Cedi modern assembly hall complex for the University of Development Studies (UDS) at Navrongo in the Kassena-Nankana East District and also cut sod for the construction for the drilling of boreholes in the Bawku municipality and its surroundings. At Nakolo, Prof Mills will facilitate the commencement of an electrification programme and moreover, ensure the construction of steel bridges among other projects for the region. Throwing more light on the president’s visit, Mr. Woyongo disclosed that the region would soon be benefiting from the construction of 450 boreholes for most deprived communities under the Rural Electrification Project, of which additional fund would be sourced to extend the project to the rest of the communities. According to him a 100 million dollar loan facility had been secured to finance the drilling of more than 30 boreholes for the people of Chiana and its catchment area, adding that plans are far afoot to desilt, dredge and rehabilitate the various dams in the region to ensure all year round farming. Mr. Woyongo later expressed government’s determination to facilitate the development of northern Ghana and urged the people to exercise restaurants since government is on course to that effect.
GBC END IA
Kassena – Nankana West District: Assembly Members sworn in
16-03-11
The President Prof. Evans Atta Mills has urged assembly members to collaborate with management of the assemblies to generate adequate revenue to complement the effort of Government. This was contained in speech read on his behalf at the swearing in ceremony of assembly members at the Kassena – Nankana West District of the Upper East Region. He added that funds that are provided by the central government as well as those that are internally generated should be judiciously used. The President further called on them to serve their people and the country at the local government level in a manner that will let the public appreciate the fact that they are involved in the decision making process and governance of the nation. He however cautioned them against using their positions to gain undue favours from the assemblies which he said is an offence adding that anyone who involves in such acts will be sanctioned accordingly. The Kassena – Nanakna West District Chief Executive, Thomas Addah Dalu appealed to the chiefs and the people to bring all hands on deck and work with unity to ensure sustainability of peace which is the only way for development. The DCE called on the assembly members to be committed so that the aim of championing the course of development will be a reality. Mr. Addah Dalu appealed to the President to provide the district with a district education block complex and a district administration block as well as residential accommodation that will enable all workers to have access to a safe and conducive environment. The MP for the area, Leo Kabah, advised the assembly members not to allow party politics to cloud their minds and forget about the development issues bordering the district. He also called on all stakeholders to bring their expertise to bear so that the district will develop as desired by the people.
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The President Prof. Evans Atta Mills has urged assembly members to collaborate with management of the assemblies to generate adequate revenue to complement the effort of Government. This was contained in speech read on his behalf at the swearing in ceremony of assembly members at the Kassena – Nankana West District of the Upper East Region. He added that funds that are provided by the central government as well as those that are internally generated should be judiciously used. The President further called on them to serve their people and the country at the local government level in a manner that will let the public appreciate the fact that they are involved in the decision making process and governance of the nation. He however cautioned them against using their positions to gain undue favours from the assemblies which he said is an offence adding that anyone who involves in such acts will be sanctioned accordingly. The Kassena – Nanakna West District Chief Executive, Thomas Addah Dalu appealed to the chiefs and the people to bring all hands on deck and work with unity to ensure sustainability of peace which is the only way for development. The DCE called on the assembly members to be committed so that the aim of championing the course of development will be a reality. Mr. Addah Dalu appealed to the President to provide the district with a district education block complex and a district administration block as well as residential accommodation that will enable all workers to have access to a safe and conducive environment. The MP for the area, Leo Kabah, advised the assembly members not to allow party politics to cloud their minds and forget about the development issues bordering the district. He also called on all stakeholders to bring their expertise to bear so that the district will develop as desired by the people.
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Public urged to help promote herbal medicine
15-03-2011
Narration: The Health Programmes Officer of the Association of Church-Base Development NGOs in Ghana, Esinam Khavi, has emphasized the need to build the capacity of traditional herbal medicine practitioners so that they can be abreast with the emerging trend on the preparation and sale of herbal medicine for better health. According to her herbs from the very onset of life were part of the African society and were used in treating all kinds of ailment, be it physical or spiritual but with the advent of colonialism on the continent the situation has changed as orthodox medicine has gained grounds, thus shifting the attention of the people from the usefulness of herbal medicine. She however stressed the urgent need to work out modalities to rid off quack herbal medical practitioners from the system to help bring sanity to the herbal industry. Madam was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the Northern Ghana Federation of Traditional Medicine Practitioners Association held at Bolgatanga. Isaac Asare was there for Radio Ghana.
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The inauguration of the Northern Ghana Federation of Traditional Medicine Practitioners Association was marked with a procession through the principal streets of Bolgatanga with some members holding placards with inscriptions that reads” promote good health with herbal healers, ”before the white traditional practice was, “ Ghana Health Service, let us collaborate among others. Addressing members, Madam Khavi who is the Health Programme of ACDEP acknowledged the enormous contribution traditional medicine play in the health service delivery of the country but was quick to express her dissatisfaction about the way some so called herbal practitioners operate without taking into considering the consequences of their self centered activities. Some he observed has no basic knowledge as to how herbal medicine is prepared for the treatment of diseases but rather defy all odds to prove their ignorance on the practice. This she lamented should not be condoned in any way adding that her outfit is determined to encourage to build the capacity of herbal medical practitioners and moreover engage practitioners in the sharing of knowledge and experience for the improvement of health service delivery. She said as part of their health programme, ACDEP since 2007 has been implementing the traditional medicine project which seeks to improve upon the capacity of traditional herbal practitioners of northern Ghana, indicating that 80 percent of the Ghanaian population particularly those in northern Ghana rely on traditional medicine for the treatment of diseases. Ms. Khavi, however touched on the urgent need to improve the linkage between herbal and orthodox practitioners so as to ensure better health care within the rural communities. She later pledged her outfit’s determination to contribute their quota to the promotion of traditional medicine. In an interview with Radio Ghana, the Northern Coordinator of the Ghana Federation of Traditional and Medical Practitioners, (GHAFTRAM), Madam Faiza Ibrahim Taimako said the overall objective of forming the association was to enable herbal practitioners within the three northern regions come together as a body to help address some of the challenges confronting them in the course of their activities and to also foster close collaboration between traditional healers and orthodox healers in the treatment of diseases. The idea is to also bring on board relevant stakeholders to brainstorm on the way forward in the promotion of herbal medicine. She declared an upcoming inauguration for Northern Ghana aimed at bridging barriers to break all bottlenecks associated with the activities of herbal healers. The inaugural ceremony she noted would ensure easier collaboration with other health bodies to boost the health sector of the country. She however encouraged members to work through GHAFTRAM since it is the only legitimate body that serve as the liaison between herbal practitioners and the Ghana Health Services in the promotion of health. According to her measures are being taken to encourage and train the youth to learn from experienced herbal practitioners to help bring sanity into the profession. Dr. Emmanuel Opoku on behalf of the Regional Health Directorate suggested punitive measures against quack herbal dealers since most of them contribute to maternal and infant mortality in the region and urged the various associations to streamline their operations to check the illegal activities of such individual. He therefore called for closer collaboration between herbal practitioners and the GHS for the promotion of better health in Ghana.
Narration: The Health Programmes Officer of the Association of Church-Base Development NGOs in Ghana, Esinam Khavi, has emphasized the need to build the capacity of traditional herbal medicine practitioners so that they can be abreast with the emerging trend on the preparation and sale of herbal medicine for better health. According to her herbs from the very onset of life were part of the African society and were used in treating all kinds of ailment, be it physical or spiritual but with the advent of colonialism on the continent the situation has changed as orthodox medicine has gained grounds, thus shifting the attention of the people from the usefulness of herbal medicine. She however stressed the urgent need to work out modalities to rid off quack herbal medical practitioners from the system to help bring sanity to the herbal industry. Madam was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the Northern Ghana Federation of Traditional Medicine Practitioners Association held at Bolgatanga. Isaac Asare was there for Radio Ghana.
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The inauguration of the Northern Ghana Federation of Traditional Medicine Practitioners Association was marked with a procession through the principal streets of Bolgatanga with some members holding placards with inscriptions that reads” promote good health with herbal healers, ”before the white traditional practice was, “ Ghana Health Service, let us collaborate among others. Addressing members, Madam Khavi who is the Health Programme of ACDEP acknowledged the enormous contribution traditional medicine play in the health service delivery of the country but was quick to express her dissatisfaction about the way some so called herbal practitioners operate without taking into considering the consequences of their self centered activities. Some he observed has no basic knowledge as to how herbal medicine is prepared for the treatment of diseases but rather defy all odds to prove their ignorance on the practice. This she lamented should not be condoned in any way adding that her outfit is determined to encourage to build the capacity of herbal medical practitioners and moreover engage practitioners in the sharing of knowledge and experience for the improvement of health service delivery. She said as part of their health programme, ACDEP since 2007 has been implementing the traditional medicine project which seeks to improve upon the capacity of traditional herbal practitioners of northern Ghana, indicating that 80 percent of the Ghanaian population particularly those in northern Ghana rely on traditional medicine for the treatment of diseases. Ms. Khavi, however touched on the urgent need to improve the linkage between herbal and orthodox practitioners so as to ensure better health care within the rural communities. She later pledged her outfit’s determination to contribute their quota to the promotion of traditional medicine. In an interview with Radio Ghana, the Northern Coordinator of the Ghana Federation of Traditional and Medical Practitioners, (GHAFTRAM), Madam Faiza Ibrahim Taimako said the overall objective of forming the association was to enable herbal practitioners within the three northern regions come together as a body to help address some of the challenges confronting them in the course of their activities and to also foster close collaboration between traditional healers and orthodox healers in the treatment of diseases. The idea is to also bring on board relevant stakeholders to brainstorm on the way forward in the promotion of herbal medicine. She declared an upcoming inauguration for Northern Ghana aimed at bridging barriers to break all bottlenecks associated with the activities of herbal healers. The inaugural ceremony she noted would ensure easier collaboration with other health bodies to boost the health sector of the country. She however encouraged members to work through GHAFTRAM since it is the only legitimate body that serve as the liaison between herbal practitioners and the Ghana Health Services in the promotion of health. According to her measures are being taken to encourage and train the youth to learn from experienced herbal practitioners to help bring sanity into the profession. Dr. Emmanuel Opoku on behalf of the Regional Health Directorate suggested punitive measures against quack herbal dealers since most of them contribute to maternal and infant mortality in the region and urged the various associations to streamline their operations to check the illegal activities of such individual. He therefore called for closer collaboration between herbal practitioners and the GHS for the promotion of better health in Ghana.
New Chiana-Pio Outdoored
16-03-2011
Narration: The Chiefs and people of Chiana Traditional Area has officially Outdoored a new Chiana Pio , Pe Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam, at a colourful durbar that attracted ministers of state, traditional rulers and opinion leaders as well as heads of decentralized departments among other dignitaries. The event was historically performed amidst drumming and dancing to mark the end of protracted chieftaincy dispute in the area and also mark the beginning of a new area of development. Correspondent Isaac Asare witnessed the occasion and has come through with this report for Radio Ghana.
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Speaking of behalf of his Excellency, Prof J.E.A Mills, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Martin Amidu described the occasion as historic since it has come at time where government is working on modalities to put an end to the numerous intractable chieftaincy disputes in the country ,particularly Northern Ghana. Some of these disputes he said have dragged on for decades and have often resulted in armed conflicts consequently leading to loss of innocent lives and property. Even more disturbing is the fact that the limited resources of the nation which could be channeled into other developmental projects are used to maintain and deploy peacekeepers for the purpose of peace and security. Mr. Amidu however appealed to the new Chiana Pio, Pe Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam to use his good offices to restore peace in the area and also exhibit quality leadership by emulating the shinning examples of his immediate predecessor, Pe- Raland Adiali Ayagitam, who worked selflessly to serve not only his people but the nation as well. According to him government recognizes the critical role of chiefs in the realization of its development agenda and will do all within its power to maintain and promote the sanctity of the chieftaincy institution so that the bond of partnership between them would be strengthened to ensure the needed development at all levels. Mr. Amidu on behalf of President Mills seized the opportunity to caution the youth against negativities that has the tendency of plunging the area into chaos and appealed citizens of the area to work collectively in ensuring discipline. He described as alarming the increasing spate of student unrest in some second cycle schools in the region and advised students to use the laid down grievance resolution mechanisms in their schools to seek redress and not resort to violent behaviours, which invariably impact negatively on their academic pursuits. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo on his part commended the kingmakers for reaching an amicable solution in the selection process of the Chiana-Pio and expressed his profound gratitude to the new Chiana-Pio for his election to the throne. He urged the contestants and other chieftaincy factions to eschew actions that could disturb the peace process and the development of the area. Chiefs, manning the various paramouncies in the region were also encouraged to consider eskinning queen mothers as a way of enhancing their activities in the selection of chiefs when necessary. Mr. Woyongo commended some paramountcies for taking steps to eskin queen mothers and urged the rest to follow suit. He later outlined a number of developmental projects earmarked for commencement in the area and called on the chiefs and people to support government in that regard. The 14 sub divisional chiefs of Chiana Traditional Area, later administered the swearing of allegiance of the Chiana-Pio to officially outdoor him as the substantive ruler of the area. The new Chiana Pio, 39 who is based in UK, succeeds his late father, Pe Roland Adiali Ayagitam. In a short Address, the new Chiana-Pio reiterated his people’s call for a model Senior High School to boost education in his area. He also appealed to government to help elevate the only health centre in Chiana to a full fledged hospital to also serve the basic health needs of the people. He was grateful to the President and the government for their support and pledged to work towards the development of his people.
Narration: The Chiefs and people of Chiana Traditional Area has officially Outdoored a new Chiana Pio , Pe Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam, at a colourful durbar that attracted ministers of state, traditional rulers and opinion leaders as well as heads of decentralized departments among other dignitaries. The event was historically performed amidst drumming and dancing to mark the end of protracted chieftaincy dispute in the area and also mark the beginning of a new area of development. Correspondent Isaac Asare witnessed the occasion and has come through with this report for Radio Ghana.
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Speaking of behalf of his Excellency, Prof J.E.A Mills, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Martin Amidu described the occasion as historic since it has come at time where government is working on modalities to put an end to the numerous intractable chieftaincy disputes in the country ,particularly Northern Ghana. Some of these disputes he said have dragged on for decades and have often resulted in armed conflicts consequently leading to loss of innocent lives and property. Even more disturbing is the fact that the limited resources of the nation which could be channeled into other developmental projects are used to maintain and deploy peacekeepers for the purpose of peace and security. Mr. Amidu however appealed to the new Chiana Pio, Pe Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam to use his good offices to restore peace in the area and also exhibit quality leadership by emulating the shinning examples of his immediate predecessor, Pe- Raland Adiali Ayagitam, who worked selflessly to serve not only his people but the nation as well. According to him government recognizes the critical role of chiefs in the realization of its development agenda and will do all within its power to maintain and promote the sanctity of the chieftaincy institution so that the bond of partnership between them would be strengthened to ensure the needed development at all levels. Mr. Amidu on behalf of President Mills seized the opportunity to caution the youth against negativities that has the tendency of plunging the area into chaos and appealed citizens of the area to work collectively in ensuring discipline. He described as alarming the increasing spate of student unrest in some second cycle schools in the region and advised students to use the laid down grievance resolution mechanisms in their schools to seek redress and not resort to violent behaviours, which invariably impact negatively on their academic pursuits. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mark Woyongo on his part commended the kingmakers for reaching an amicable solution in the selection process of the Chiana-Pio and expressed his profound gratitude to the new Chiana-Pio for his election to the throne. He urged the contestants and other chieftaincy factions to eschew actions that could disturb the peace process and the development of the area. Chiefs, manning the various paramouncies in the region were also encouraged to consider eskinning queen mothers as a way of enhancing their activities in the selection of chiefs when necessary. Mr. Woyongo commended some paramountcies for taking steps to eskin queen mothers and urged the rest to follow suit. He later outlined a number of developmental projects earmarked for commencement in the area and called on the chiefs and people to support government in that regard. The 14 sub divisional chiefs of Chiana Traditional Area, later administered the swearing of allegiance of the Chiana-Pio to officially outdoor him as the substantive ruler of the area. The new Chiana Pio, 39 who is based in UK, succeeds his late father, Pe Roland Adiali Ayagitam. In a short Address, the new Chiana-Pio reiterated his people’s call for a model Senior High School to boost education in his area. He also appealed to government to help elevate the only health centre in Chiana to a full fledged hospital to also serve the basic health needs of the people. He was grateful to the President and the government for their support and pledged to work towards the development of his people.
Members of Pax Romana holds annual meting
Narration: Believers of the gospel have been encouraged to inculcate the habit of sharing with the poor and the needy in society in return for blessing from God. Delivering a sermon on the theme: “you are the salt of the earth, you are the light of the world” , a lecturer and a Senior Chaplain at the Bolgatanga Polytechnic, Rev Fr. Peter Ayorogo, said the act of sharing form the basis and criterion by which mankind would be judged. Rev. Fr. Ayorogo was addressing members of Pax Romana of the Bolgatanga Polytechnic, during their annual Pax Camp for the 2010/2011 academic year. Isaac Asare was there for Radio Ghana.
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Pax Romana is an international Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS) established in 1887 to fight against communism and poverty among communities in which they operates. The movement which has the motto “Liberation for peace and an option for the poor” was founded in Ghana in 1949 by Saint John Aquinas with the aim to promote peace, foster good relations with Christian believers, and moreover, strengthen and promote apostolate among tertiary students across the country. The movement also operates in 80 countries and takes part in matters relating to health, human rights, poverty, HIV and AIDS as well as environmental and sustainable developments. Addressing participants Rev. Fr. Ayorogo advised Christians to act as the light and salt of the world by learning to give to the poor and vulnerable in society. He described light and salt as valuable and complimentary elements necessary in making lives worth living and admonished Christians to show love and compassion to both Christians and non-Christians. He said as light dispel darkness and remove doubts and fear so shall Christians assist in sharing their knowledge, wisdom and talents to transform the lives of others who are in need . Speaking on the theme, “keep your roots deep in him, a resourced person from the regional health administration, Mr. Richard Asomani, encouraged Christians to be deeply rooted in Christ by relying on God’s scriptures. He cautioned Christians to desist from ungodly activities and live on the moral principles of God to help draw other people closer to him. He cautioned them against profanity and the use of derogatory and disparaging statements since the use of such words do not depict a true Christian character. According to him, the use of provocative statements has the tendency of inciting people into violent behaviours.. Mr. Asomani, therefore advised Christians to be firmly rooted in Christ through faith and pray without ceasing. Christians he emphasized are not at liberty to engage in immoral lifestyles though everything is permissible but rather portray outstanding lifestyles worthy of emulation. Mr Asomani later charged members of the movement to play their roles effectively in order to meet their set objective. In an interview with Radio Ghana, the Northern Zone Coordinator of Pax Romana, Thomas Ayila mentioned lack of funding as one of their major challenge, thus making the movement ineffective and dormant. Notwithstanding the challenges, Pax Romana, had chalked some successes in bringing students on board to brainstorm on issues affecting their welfare. He therefore encouraged members to stand the test of time and contribute their quota to the development of the movement. This years annual meeting of Pax Romana attended by eleven tertiary institutions across the country was marked with fun games and other social activities.
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Pax Romana is an international Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS) established in 1887 to fight against communism and poverty among communities in which they operates. The movement which has the motto “Liberation for peace and an option for the poor” was founded in Ghana in 1949 by Saint John Aquinas with the aim to promote peace, foster good relations with Christian believers, and moreover, strengthen and promote apostolate among tertiary students across the country. The movement also operates in 80 countries and takes part in matters relating to health, human rights, poverty, HIV and AIDS as well as environmental and sustainable developments. Addressing participants Rev. Fr. Ayorogo advised Christians to act as the light and salt of the world by learning to give to the poor and vulnerable in society. He described light and salt as valuable and complimentary elements necessary in making lives worth living and admonished Christians to show love and compassion to both Christians and non-Christians. He said as light dispel darkness and remove doubts and fear so shall Christians assist in sharing their knowledge, wisdom and talents to transform the lives of others who are in need . Speaking on the theme, “keep your roots deep in him, a resourced person from the regional health administration, Mr. Richard Asomani, encouraged Christians to be deeply rooted in Christ by relying on God’s scriptures. He cautioned Christians to desist from ungodly activities and live on the moral principles of God to help draw other people closer to him. He cautioned them against profanity and the use of derogatory and disparaging statements since the use of such words do not depict a true Christian character. According to him, the use of provocative statements has the tendency of inciting people into violent behaviours.. Mr. Asomani, therefore advised Christians to be firmly rooted in Christ through faith and pray without ceasing. Christians he emphasized are not at liberty to engage in immoral lifestyles though everything is permissible but rather portray outstanding lifestyles worthy of emulation. Mr Asomani later charged members of the movement to play their roles effectively in order to meet their set objective. In an interview with Radio Ghana, the Northern Zone Coordinator of Pax Romana, Thomas Ayila mentioned lack of funding as one of their major challenge, thus making the movement ineffective and dormant. Notwithstanding the challenges, Pax Romana, had chalked some successes in bringing students on board to brainstorm on issues affecting their welfare. He therefore encouraged members to stand the test of time and contribute their quota to the development of the movement. This years annual meeting of Pax Romana attended by eleven tertiary institutions across the country was marked with fun games and other social activities.
Leo Kaba sure of retaining seat as MP for Paga
19-03-2011
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Paga Constituency, Leo Kaba, has declared his intention to serve another term of office to pursue his developmental agenda set for his constituents. To this effect, Mr. Kaba, who has already served his second term in office under the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has filed his nomination to contest for the party’s upcoming primaries. Speaking to Radio Ghana at Paga, the MP expressed his determination to outwit his two contesting bodies in the race and promised to give them a good run for their money by matching them boot for boot. He was sure of holding on to the baton and urged his people to rally behind him to succeed. According to him the Paga constituency since his assumption of office, has witnessed a number of developments that stretches from education, health, sports and the infrastructure among other amenities, stressing that, his outfit is poised of pursuing such developments to the latter. Mr. Kaba therefore appealed to his constituents to maintain the healthy political atmosphere in the area and support him, live up to expectation. To him, development cannot strive when there is chaos, anarchy, division and backbiting and therefore reiterated his call for the maintenance of peace in the area. He also called on the rank and file of the party, particularly, party executives to desist from all forms of divisive tendencies and iron out their differences for the sake of the party, which he said is determined to wrestle power from the incumbent come 2012. Internal party wrangling, he noted, has the tendency of creating disunity among party members, hence, the need to fashion out remedies in settling such situations and not resort to negativities that has the edge for opponents to take advantage of. Touching on developments under his reign, Mr. Kaba, said his outfit with support of his constituents, is committed to enhancing the level of education in the Paga constituency and pledged to ensure the speedy completion of ongoing school projects to increase school enrolment. Additionally, all schools under trees would soon be a thing of the past and assured the people of working tirelessly to that effect. A number of schools and libraries he said would be provided for his people in due time. He described education as the panacea for development and urged parents to make education of their ward their topmost priority. Mr Kaba said measures are being put in place to provide market sheds for the various communities and mentioned the Kayoro and Sirigu Market as some of the beneficiaries. He explained that the provision of the market sheds would help improve the revenue mobilization process of the district and also help improve the livelihood of the people, particularly market women. Mr Kaba also pldged to enhance the health service delivery in the area by providing OPD structures among other workable tools for the health facilities. He also expressed his willingness to lighten up the area with street lights and hook up most deprived communities to the national grid. Mr. Kaba later disclosed his intention to promote sports in his constituency and urged the youth to develop interest in sports to help unearth their inherent talents for development. He encouraged his people, particularly; party members to remain focus and united at all times to ensure peace and development. Mr Kaba assured the people of more developmental projects if given the nod to serve another term. Some party executives who later spoke to Radio Ghana expressed their party’s determination of recapturing power in the next elections since the people are impressed with the level of development under the administration of the MP.
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The Member of Parliament (MP) for Paga Constituency, Leo Kaba, has declared his intention to serve another term of office to pursue his developmental agenda set for his constituents. To this effect, Mr. Kaba, who has already served his second term in office under the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has filed his nomination to contest for the party’s upcoming primaries. Speaking to Radio Ghana at Paga, the MP expressed his determination to outwit his two contesting bodies in the race and promised to give them a good run for their money by matching them boot for boot. He was sure of holding on to the baton and urged his people to rally behind him to succeed. According to him the Paga constituency since his assumption of office, has witnessed a number of developments that stretches from education, health, sports and the infrastructure among other amenities, stressing that, his outfit is poised of pursuing such developments to the latter. Mr. Kaba therefore appealed to his constituents to maintain the healthy political atmosphere in the area and support him, live up to expectation. To him, development cannot strive when there is chaos, anarchy, division and backbiting and therefore reiterated his call for the maintenance of peace in the area. He also called on the rank and file of the party, particularly, party executives to desist from all forms of divisive tendencies and iron out their differences for the sake of the party, which he said is determined to wrestle power from the incumbent come 2012. Internal party wrangling, he noted, has the tendency of creating disunity among party members, hence, the need to fashion out remedies in settling such situations and not resort to negativities that has the edge for opponents to take advantage of. Touching on developments under his reign, Mr. Kaba, said his outfit with support of his constituents, is committed to enhancing the level of education in the Paga constituency and pledged to ensure the speedy completion of ongoing school projects to increase school enrolment. Additionally, all schools under trees would soon be a thing of the past and assured the people of working tirelessly to that effect. A number of schools and libraries he said would be provided for his people in due time. He described education as the panacea for development and urged parents to make education of their ward their topmost priority. Mr Kaba said measures are being put in place to provide market sheds for the various communities and mentioned the Kayoro and Sirigu Market as some of the beneficiaries. He explained that the provision of the market sheds would help improve the revenue mobilization process of the district and also help improve the livelihood of the people, particularly market women. Mr Kaba also pldged to enhance the health service delivery in the area by providing OPD structures among other workable tools for the health facilities. He also expressed his willingness to lighten up the area with street lights and hook up most deprived communities to the national grid. Mr. Kaba later disclosed his intention to promote sports in his constituency and urged the youth to develop interest in sports to help unearth their inherent talents for development. He encouraged his people, particularly; party members to remain focus and united at all times to ensure peace and development. Mr Kaba assured the people of more developmental projects if given the nod to serve another term. Some party executives who later spoke to Radio Ghana expressed their party’s determination of recapturing power in the next elections since the people are impressed with the level of development under the administration of the MP.
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Thursday, 10 March 2011
State Institutions Challenged to Provide Disability Friendly Structures
09-03-2011
An advocate for Social Justice and a former Assembly member for Zaare Electoral Area of the Upper East Region, Alagskoma Asakeya Noble, has observed with grave concern the existence of various infrastructural facilities without the provision of accessibility for persons with disability. Speaking to Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga Mr Asakeya Noble said to enable persons with disability to live independently and participate fully in all aspect of society, policy makers and state parties should take appropriate steps to ensure that such persons have access, on an equal basis with others facilities and services provided to the public, both in rural and urban areas. Moreover facilities including buildings, schools, medical facilities, roads, transportation and other indoor and outdoor facilities and workplaces should be made disability friendly. The provision of these facilities he said would help promote an inclusive society where persons with all forms of disability would have equal access to facilities open to the public. Mr. Asakeya Noble however called on parliament to as a matter of urgency pass a law to make it mandatory for all structures to be disability friendly. He also called on private entities that offer facilities and services to the public to take into account all aspect of accessibility for persons with disability. Mr. Asakeya Noble, further stressed the need to promote forms of assistance and intermediaries including signage in Braille, professional language interpreters and easy to read materials to help facilitate accessibility to buildings and other facilities made available to the public. Stakeholder training on accessibility issues facing persons with disability should be periodically organized to find lasting solutions to the problem. He said society has come to realize the enormous contribution persons with disability play in the socio-economic development of the country, hence the need to seek to their right and wellbeing.
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An advocate for Social Justice and a former Assembly member for Zaare Electoral Area of the Upper East Region, Alagskoma Asakeya Noble, has observed with grave concern the existence of various infrastructural facilities without the provision of accessibility for persons with disability. Speaking to Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga Mr Asakeya Noble said to enable persons with disability to live independently and participate fully in all aspect of society, policy makers and state parties should take appropriate steps to ensure that such persons have access, on an equal basis with others facilities and services provided to the public, both in rural and urban areas. Moreover facilities including buildings, schools, medical facilities, roads, transportation and other indoor and outdoor facilities and workplaces should be made disability friendly. The provision of these facilities he said would help promote an inclusive society where persons with all forms of disability would have equal access to facilities open to the public. Mr. Asakeya Noble however called on parliament to as a matter of urgency pass a law to make it mandatory for all structures to be disability friendly. He also called on private entities that offer facilities and services to the public to take into account all aspect of accessibility for persons with disability. Mr. Asakeya Noble, further stressed the need to promote forms of assistance and intermediaries including signage in Braille, professional language interpreters and easy to read materials to help facilitate accessibility to buildings and other facilities made available to the public. Stakeholder training on accessibility issues facing persons with disability should be periodically organized to find lasting solutions to the problem. He said society has come to realize the enormous contribution persons with disability play in the socio-economic development of the country, hence the need to seek to their right and wellbeing.
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Women urged to take their rightful positions in society
08-03-2011
As today marks the International Day for Women, it is incumbent on women to take up the challenge of occupying their rightful places in society and also contribute their quota to the development of the country. Men on the other hand should help in championing the cause of women and not underestimate their potentials since they serve as important elements in society. The National Director of the Widows and Orphan Ministry, Madam Betty Ayagiba who made the call in an interview with Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga, observed the enormous contribution women play in the socio-economic development of the country, saying that women poses the qualities of manning various positions in the society. Meanwhile their rights are being relegated to the background making them poor and vulnerable. Women’s plight and vulnerability she emphasized is exacerbated by numerous challenges including superstition, apathy, and lack of self confidence among other dehumanizing socio-cultural practices. Madam Ayagiba however stressed the need for women to rise up and defend their right and moreover contribute their quota in the decision making processes of the county. This way, she noted will promote the right of women in all fields of endeavours. She mentioned the education of the girl child as an essential area that needs to be given greater priority and attention in the empowerment of women and called on the government and other relevant stakeholders in the education sector to effectively play their respective roles in the promotion of girl child education, particularly in deprived areas of the country. Madam Ayagiba pointed out that women in northern part of the country are considered the poorest of the poor and attributed illiteracy and cultural practices as some of the challenges hampering their progress in society. Giving women the needed education she added is the only surest way of breaking the shackles of poverty among them. She therefore appealed to traditional authorities to as a matter of concern halt certain dehumanizing practices that impede the progress of women but rather support them through education so that they can develop their potentials to the fullest and also occupy their rightful places in the country. She also charged women not to succumb to such practices but rather see themselves as agents of change capable of turning the fortunes of the country uprightly.
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As today marks the International Day for Women, it is incumbent on women to take up the challenge of occupying their rightful places in society and also contribute their quota to the development of the country. Men on the other hand should help in championing the cause of women and not underestimate their potentials since they serve as important elements in society. The National Director of the Widows and Orphan Ministry, Madam Betty Ayagiba who made the call in an interview with Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga, observed the enormous contribution women play in the socio-economic development of the country, saying that women poses the qualities of manning various positions in the society. Meanwhile their rights are being relegated to the background making them poor and vulnerable. Women’s plight and vulnerability she emphasized is exacerbated by numerous challenges including superstition, apathy, and lack of self confidence among other dehumanizing socio-cultural practices. Madam Ayagiba however stressed the need for women to rise up and defend their right and moreover contribute their quota in the decision making processes of the county. This way, she noted will promote the right of women in all fields of endeavours. She mentioned the education of the girl child as an essential area that needs to be given greater priority and attention in the empowerment of women and called on the government and other relevant stakeholders in the education sector to effectively play their respective roles in the promotion of girl child education, particularly in deprived areas of the country. Madam Ayagiba pointed out that women in northern part of the country are considered the poorest of the poor and attributed illiteracy and cultural practices as some of the challenges hampering their progress in society. Giving women the needed education she added is the only surest way of breaking the shackles of poverty among them. She therefore appealed to traditional authorities to as a matter of concern halt certain dehumanizing practices that impede the progress of women but rather support them through education so that they can develop their potentials to the fullest and also occupy their rightful places in the country. She also charged women not to succumb to such practices but rather see themselves as agents of change capable of turning the fortunes of the country uprightly.
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Wednesday, 2 March 2011
Bolgatanga Nurses Training Cries for Accreditation.
02-03-2011
The Bolgatanga Nurses Training School, one of the outstanding health training institutions in the country , stands the risk of not getting accreditation from the National Accreditation Board (NAB) due to poor inadequate infrastructure confronting the school. The Principal of the college, Mac Musa mommin, described the facilities at the school as woefully inadequate, hence the need for massive renovation and expansion. Adherence to the call he indicated would help the school meet the standard requirements necessary for accreditation. Mr. Mommin disclosed this in an interview with Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga. He said the school has a current student population of 458 with only 3 classrooms housing all the students. The staff strength of the school comprising teaching and non teaching staff is nothing to write home about as it can boast of only six tutors giving tuition in all the courses undertaken by the students. The situation, Mr. Mommin lamented, has greatly affected the school’s academic performance over the years. According to him the school for the first time in 6 years recorded a 50 percent below pass during their recent examination conducted for final year students nationwide. He said despite several appeals and a notification, nothing concrete has been done to stem the situation which he claimed has persisted since its establishment. He attributed the continuous decline of the school’s academic performance to a number of factors and mentioned inadequate teaching and learning aids as one of the major challenges. Mr. Mommin however appealed for computers and teaching aids to enable the students to take part in computer studies, which forms part of the curriculum. He also called on the district assembly and non-governmental organizations to come to the aid of the school. He noted that the school as part of its challenges is faced with the problem of land litigation and compensation for land owners. Mr. Mommin further called on the assembly to find an alternative way of dealing with the situation since some community members have threatened to resolve the issue their own way. On the issue of accommodation, Mr. Mommin pleaded with the health directorate to help provide staff quatres’s and hostel facilities for students particularly those drawn outside the region.Mr Mommin later called on all stakeholders in the health sector of the region to contribute their quota in helping the school achieve model and accreditational status.
GBC END IA/
The Bolgatanga Nurses Training School, one of the outstanding health training institutions in the country , stands the risk of not getting accreditation from the National Accreditation Board (NAB) due to poor inadequate infrastructure confronting the school. The Principal of the college, Mac Musa mommin, described the facilities at the school as woefully inadequate, hence the need for massive renovation and expansion. Adherence to the call he indicated would help the school meet the standard requirements necessary for accreditation. Mr. Mommin disclosed this in an interview with Radio Ghana at Bolgatanga. He said the school has a current student population of 458 with only 3 classrooms housing all the students. The staff strength of the school comprising teaching and non teaching staff is nothing to write home about as it can boast of only six tutors giving tuition in all the courses undertaken by the students. The situation, Mr. Mommin lamented, has greatly affected the school’s academic performance over the years. According to him the school for the first time in 6 years recorded a 50 percent below pass during their recent examination conducted for final year students nationwide. He said despite several appeals and a notification, nothing concrete has been done to stem the situation which he claimed has persisted since its establishment. He attributed the continuous decline of the school’s academic performance to a number of factors and mentioned inadequate teaching and learning aids as one of the major challenges. Mr. Mommin however appealed for computers and teaching aids to enable the students to take part in computer studies, which forms part of the curriculum. He also called on the district assembly and non-governmental organizations to come to the aid of the school. He noted that the school as part of its challenges is faced with the problem of land litigation and compensation for land owners. Mr. Mommin further called on the assembly to find an alternative way of dealing with the situation since some community members have threatened to resolve the issue their own way. On the issue of accommodation, Mr. Mommin pleaded with the health directorate to help provide staff quatres’s and hostel facilities for students particularly those drawn outside the region.Mr Mommin later called on all stakeholders in the health sector of the region to contribute their quota in helping the school achieve model and accreditational status.
GBC END IA/
Tuesday, 1 March 2011
Community Health Nurses Receives training on motorbike riding
01-03-2011
A week long training programme on motor riding has been organized for final year students of the Community Health Nurses Training School at Navrongo in the Upper East Region. About 152 students are taking part in the training, which is the third of its kind to be held for the school. The purpose for the training is to equip trainees with necessary skills in motor riding before they are dispatched to the various communities to provide health care for the people. The exercise will assist the nurses to commute and meander their way through hard to reach areas to deliver quality health care to the doorstep of their clients. The Principal of the school, Mr. David Amalba told Radio Ghana that the training of the nurses would go a long way to help improve the health status of the people and also contribute immensely in the reduction of maternal and infant mortality in the deprived areas of the region. He noted that the training programme has impacted positively in the health service delivery in areas where access to health facilities is difficult to come by. And that, beneficiaries through the motor training, would be able to perform their expected roles effectively without any hindrance. Mr. Amalba mentioned inadequate number of motor bikes as one of the major challenges that hinders the activities of the training programme, which he indicated, involves training in defensive driving and riding through rocky and waterlogged areas. He therefore made a passionate appeal to the health ministry through the regional health directorate to assist the school with more motor bikes for the training of the students. Mr. Amalba also recommended the programme to all the health training institutions across the country, adding that the health care of the people living in remote areas is paramount in achieving the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 4 and 5, hence the need to assist health personnel with the requisite and needed training they deserve to deliver. One of the trainers, Hypolite Yeleduor, touched on difficulties they encounter during the course of the exercise, stressing that majority of the students do not have the technical know how and the zeal to ride on motor bikes. He expressed the hope that participants would make something meaningful out of the training before they are dispatched to the various communities. Mary Amoah, a trainee expressed appreciation to the school authorities for initiating the training programme, adding that the training has enhanced her knowledge in motor riding and has moreover, given her more insight as to how to ride with caution.
GBC END IA/
A week long training programme on motor riding has been organized for final year students of the Community Health Nurses Training School at Navrongo in the Upper East Region. About 152 students are taking part in the training, which is the third of its kind to be held for the school. The purpose for the training is to equip trainees with necessary skills in motor riding before they are dispatched to the various communities to provide health care for the people. The exercise will assist the nurses to commute and meander their way through hard to reach areas to deliver quality health care to the doorstep of their clients. The Principal of the school, Mr. David Amalba told Radio Ghana that the training of the nurses would go a long way to help improve the health status of the people and also contribute immensely in the reduction of maternal and infant mortality in the deprived areas of the region. He noted that the training programme has impacted positively in the health service delivery in areas where access to health facilities is difficult to come by. And that, beneficiaries through the motor training, would be able to perform their expected roles effectively without any hindrance. Mr. Amalba mentioned inadequate number of motor bikes as one of the major challenges that hinders the activities of the training programme, which he indicated, involves training in defensive driving and riding through rocky and waterlogged areas. He therefore made a passionate appeal to the health ministry through the regional health directorate to assist the school with more motor bikes for the training of the students. Mr. Amalba also recommended the programme to all the health training institutions across the country, adding that the health care of the people living in remote areas is paramount in achieving the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 4 and 5, hence the need to assist health personnel with the requisite and needed training they deserve to deliver. One of the trainers, Hypolite Yeleduor, touched on difficulties they encounter during the course of the exercise, stressing that majority of the students do not have the technical know how and the zeal to ride on motor bikes. He expressed the hope that participants would make something meaningful out of the training before they are dispatched to the various communities. Mary Amoah, a trainee expressed appreciation to the school authorities for initiating the training programme, adding that the training has enhanced her knowledge in motor riding and has moreover, given her more insight as to how to ride with caution.
GBC END IA/
Upper East Regional Health Directorate Takes delivery of Pulse Oximeters
01-03-2011
A team of health expert from Southampton Hospital in the United Kingdom with support by Afrikids , has donated 9 set of Pulse Oximeters and ancillary equipments to the Upper East Regional Health Directorate to assist the various health facilities perform surgery with ease. The provision of the surgery equipments which is to replace the conventional method of performing operation with the aid of blood pressure apparatus among other methods forms part of effort aimed at improving anaesthesia and safe surgery under a worldwide project dubbed: “Safe Surgery saves lives”. It is a partnership programme hosted by the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists , involving the Association of Anaesthetists of UK and Ireland and the Harvard School of Public Health. Dr Oliver Rox who is the leader of the team indicated that the provision of the pulse oximeters comes along with training of health personnel manning the various health facilities in the region. The one week training he noted would go along way to assist beneficiary health facilities perform surgery with ease and also enable them save lives. He said the equipment are meant for supply to low resourced hospitals and are to be used according to guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Mr. Rox expressed the belief that the provision of the equipments will contribute in reducing the increasing spate of maternal and infant mortality by 50 percent in the health sector of the region. Receiving the items, the Regional Director of Health Services, Dr John Koku-Awoonor-Williams emphasized the relevance of the equipments in dealing with emergency cases especially at the theatres, where surgeries are performed. He however expressed profound appreciation for the gesture and pledged on behalf of the beneficiaries to put them into good use. According to him some selected health personnel manning the various district hospitals would be taken through training to ensure the proper handling of the equipments so as to prolong their lifespan. He was grateful to the team and called for sustainable and effective partnership between them and the directorate. Dr. Awoonor-Williams also called on the support of other donor agencies to assist the region address some of its infrastructural and human resource challenges to save more lives. A senior nurse anaesthetist at the Sandema District Hospital, Mr. Samuel Akologo described the oximeters and the ancillary equipments as essential since the heart rate and the oxygen concentration of patients would be continuously monitored until the operation is over. He said the equipments have a monitoring and alarm system capable of given all the necessary alertness when surgery is being performed on a patient. Mr Akologo called for more of such equipments to help save more lives particularly in the remote health facilities.
GBC END IA/
A team of health expert from Southampton Hospital in the United Kingdom with support by Afrikids , has donated 9 set of Pulse Oximeters and ancillary equipments to the Upper East Regional Health Directorate to assist the various health facilities perform surgery with ease. The provision of the surgery equipments which is to replace the conventional method of performing operation with the aid of blood pressure apparatus among other methods forms part of effort aimed at improving anaesthesia and safe surgery under a worldwide project dubbed: “Safe Surgery saves lives”. It is a partnership programme hosted by the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists , involving the Association of Anaesthetists of UK and Ireland and the Harvard School of Public Health. Dr Oliver Rox who is the leader of the team indicated that the provision of the pulse oximeters comes along with training of health personnel manning the various health facilities in the region. The one week training he noted would go along way to assist beneficiary health facilities perform surgery with ease and also enable them save lives. He said the equipment are meant for supply to low resourced hospitals and are to be used according to guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Mr. Rox expressed the belief that the provision of the equipments will contribute in reducing the increasing spate of maternal and infant mortality by 50 percent in the health sector of the region. Receiving the items, the Regional Director of Health Services, Dr John Koku-Awoonor-Williams emphasized the relevance of the equipments in dealing with emergency cases especially at the theatres, where surgeries are performed. He however expressed profound appreciation for the gesture and pledged on behalf of the beneficiaries to put them into good use. According to him some selected health personnel manning the various district hospitals would be taken through training to ensure the proper handling of the equipments so as to prolong their lifespan. He was grateful to the team and called for sustainable and effective partnership between them and the directorate. Dr. Awoonor-Williams also called on the support of other donor agencies to assist the region address some of its infrastructural and human resource challenges to save more lives. A senior nurse anaesthetist at the Sandema District Hospital, Mr. Samuel Akologo described the oximeters and the ancillary equipments as essential since the heart rate and the oxygen concentration of patients would be continuously monitored until the operation is over. He said the equipments have a monitoring and alarm system capable of given all the necessary alertness when surgery is being performed on a patient. Mr Akologo called for more of such equipments to help save more lives particularly in the remote health facilities.
GBC END IA/
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