UTAG-UG Demands Resignation of Auditor-General Over Controversial Payroll Audit Report
The University of Ghana Chapter of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG-UG) has called for the immediate resignation of Auditor-General Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu in light of a contentious payroll audit report that has raised serious concerns within the academic community. The demand follows the release of a special payroll verification audit from the Auditor-General’s office, which asserts that the University of Ghana overstated employee compensation by GH¢59.2 million between 2022 and 2024. However, UTAG-UG has vehemently disputed these findings, labeling the report as misleading and inaccurate. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, May 20, UTAG-UG General Secretary Jerry Joe Harrison criticized the audit as damaging to the university’s reputation and that of its staff. He emphasized that the report was released without allowing the university an opportunity to respond or clarify any discrepancies highlighted in the findings. Harrison accused the Auditor-General of ethical misconduct, stating that the way the audit was compiled disqualifies him from continuing in office. “It appears to us that the audit service is more interested in appearing to be working rather than doing the right thing, and in so doing, they ignore ethical standards that guide their profession,” he declared. Moreover, he pointed out that the University of Ghana was not given a chance to review or comment on the audit results before they were made public, which he deemed unfair and unethical. “The University of Ghana maintains that the audit report was not shared with them for them to make comments and clarify any discrepancies before this was made public. This is a serious breach of the ethics required of the audit service and the profession,” Harrison asserted. Declaring that the situation represents a failure of professional standards, UTAG-UG has called for decisive action. “For the Auditor-General to sit in his office and preside over such an institution that disregards ethical standard practice, we are hereby calling for the resignation of the Auditor-General, or we will petition the President for him to be removed,” Harrison concluded, underscoring the gravity of the issue as the university community rallies behind their call for accountability. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Empowering Young Minds: Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre’s Gift to BECE Candidates
In a heartwarming display of kindness and commitment to education, Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre has donated 1,500 mathematical sets to the Ghana Education Service (GES) in Zebilla. Apexnewsgh reports This generous gesture is part of a five-year journey to support and encourage young students, particularly those preparing for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). The mathematical sets will be distributed to all BECE candidates across the 59 basic schools in the district. This thoughtful donation serves as a reminder to the students that they are not alone in their academic pursuits. Mr. Julius Abanga Asigri, Deputy Director for Planning and Statistics at GES-Zebilla, graciously received the sets on behalf of the Service, ensuring they reach every candidate. As the students prepare to begin their exams on June 9, 2025, Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre’s message is clear: “Step into the exam room with confidence and courage, knowing we are always with you, always cheering you on.” This kind gesture is a testament to the power of community and support in helping young people achieve their goals. The donation has brought together the Honorable District Chief Executive, Mr. James Ayamweogo, the GES-Zebilla family, friends, and comrades, all of whom have shown their support for the students. As Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre aptly puts it, “Let us continue to uplift and stand with our younger siblings as they build the future they desire.” With the mathematical sets in hand, the BECE candidates are ready to take on their exams with confidence. Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre wishes them all the best, saying, “Thank you, and best of luck to all BECE candidates.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghanaian Scholars Abroad Plan Protest Over Unpaid Stipends and Allowances
The Coalition of Ghanaian Scholars Abroad, made up of beneficiaries of the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat studying in various countries, has announced a planned demonstration on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Apexnewsgh reports The protest aims to address the government’s failure to provide long-overdue stipends and allowances, which have left many students in dire financial straits. According to the students, many of whom are recipients of the Scholarship Secretariat’s foreign scholarships, they have gone without their monthly stipends for an alarming 14 months. Additionally, book and health allowances have not been paid for the past two academic years, exacerbating their financial difficulties. In a joint statement released by representatives from across Europe, North America, and Asia, the students expressed their frustrations, accusing the government of neglecting its responsibility to support their education. Despite numerous appeals and efforts to engage diplomatically with authorities, they feel abandoned and unsupported. The Coalition emphasized that their demonstration is a peaceful assembly intended to raise awareness about their prolonged hardships and to demand accountability from the Ghanaian government regarding the disbursement of funds. “This protest is not a political move. It is a desperate cry for survival. Many of us are stranded, unable to pay rent, buy food, or access healthcare. We feel forgotten by the country we are representing,” the statement declared. As the planned demonstration approaches, the Coalition is hopeful that their collective voice will prompt action and bring attention to the urgent situation facing Ghanaian students abroad. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Pupil-Teacher jailed 10 years for …
Mr Edward Ekuadzi, a 36-year-old pupil teacher in Aflao in the Ketu South Municipality of the Volta region, has been sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment with hard labour for engaging in incestuous relations with his 17-year-old daughter. He appeared before the Denu Circuit Court on 2nd May 2025, where he pleaded guilty simpliciter to the charge. As presented by the prosecution, the complainant, Madam Christy Kwau, is a trader and the biological mother of the victim (name withheld), a 17-year-old Senior High School student. Both the complainant and the accused are divorced, and the victim had lived with the convict since infancy. On 22nd April 2025 at approximately 10:00 am, the victim went to the complainant at Sepenukope and refused to return to the accused. Upon questioning, the victim disclosed that in March 2025 at about 4:20 am, and again on 17th April 2025 at 4:30 am, the accused had forcibly had sexual intercourse with her in their living room. He had also threatened her against disclosing the act, warning that she would “risk dying” if she did.The complainant subsequently reported the case to the Aflao Police Station, and a medical form was issued for the victim to undergo examination. The accused (now convicted) was arrested and interrogated on 30th April 2025, during which he confessed to having sexual intercourse with the victim on three occasions. The convict was a teacher at a private basic school in the Ketu South Municipality.
CHASS Disappointed Over Minister’s Comments On School Food Quality
The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has expressed surprise and disappointment over Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu’s recent remarks about the quality of food served in senior high schools. Apexnewsgh reports The Minister had raised concerns about “poor quality food” and hinted at possibly reversing the decision to allow school heads to directly procure food. CHASS National Secretary, Primus Baro, described the Minister’s comments as unexpected, stating that no formal reports have been received about schools serving poor-quality food. In fact, feedback suggests improvement since headteachers began procuring food themselves. Baro urged that concerns about food quality be handled internally and constructively, rather than in the media, to avoid creating a misleading impression based on isolated incidents. It’s worth noting that a different perspective on this issue comes from Yaw Osei Adutwum, who argued that relinquishing control over the food system doesn’t guarantee a seamless process, highlighting historical challenges faced by the system. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Alice Ellen Abeere-Inga takes over as East Regional Education Director
A significant ceremony was held at the Regional Education Office in the Upper East Region on Monday, April 28, 2025, as Regional Director of Education (RDE) Mr. Bright Armstin Lawoe officially handed over office. Apexnewsgh reports Mr. Lawoe, who has been leading the region’s education sector since February 2023, is set to assume the role of substantive Regional Director of Education in the Savannah Region. During his tenure, Mr. Lawoe was known for his firm leadership, commitment to promoting quality education delivery, and fostering collaboration among education stakeholders across the region. His dedication to improving education outcomes has left a lasting impact on the region. The leadership mantle now passes to Mrs. Alice Ellen Abeere-Inga, the outgoing Municipal Director of Education for Kasena-Nankana East. With decades of experience in the education sector, Mrs. Abeere-Inga brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. She has held various positions, including classroom teacher, School Improvement Support Officer, Chief Inspector of Schools, and Headmistress of Chiana Senior High School. In his handing-over remarks, Mr. Lawoe expressed deep appreciation to staff, Municipal and District Directors of Education, and partners for their support throughout his tenure. He expressed confidence that the region will continue to thrive under Mrs. Abeere-Inga’s capable leadership. Mrs. Abeere-Inga pledged to build on the strong foundation laid by her predecessor and called for continuous support from all stakeholders to advance the cause of education in the Upper East Region. The ceremony concluded with warm exchanges and a renewed commitment from all present to work collaboratively in promoting excellence in education across the region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/ Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen.
Ghana Offers 1000 Scholarships to ECOWAS Students
President John Dramani Mahama has announced that Ghana will offer 1000 scholarships to tertiary students across the ECOWAS sub-region to study in universities in Ghana. Apexnewsgh reports The President made this announcement at the launch of the 50th anniversary celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held in Accra on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. The President explained that the gesture is to strengthen regional bonds and foster unity amongst young people in the ECOWAS sub-region. “To mark this moment and strengthen regional bonds, Ghana is offering 1000 scholarships to tertiary students from across the ECOWAS sub-region to study in our universities,” he said. President Mahama emphasized that the scholarships are not just a gesture, but an act of solidarity aimed at promoting a future where young people will see each other as partners, not foreigners. “This is not just a gesture, it is an act of solidarity, it is a brace to a future where our young people will grow up seeing each other not as foreigners but partners,” he added. The President stressed that unity and solidarity should guide ECOWAS in managing insecurity and diversity amongst its members as it approaches its centenary celebration. He called for ECOWAS to remain a forum for listening, healing, and visionary African-led solidarity and diplomacy. President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s unwavering commitment to the ECOWAS mission and its values of dialogue, peace, and partnerships. He also called for ECOWAS to be positioned not only as a political and economic bloc but as a diplomatic anchor for the continent, a model of integration, dialogue, and peaceful co-existence. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
KTS Teachers Appreciate Headmistress’s Leadership
In the heart of the Kalbeo Tindonsoblgo Primary School (KTS), an atmosphere of gratitude and appreciation filled the air as the teachers gathered to honor their Headmistress, Diana Dong. During the vacation day, the staff took a moment to reflect on the profound impact her leadership has had on their professional lives and the school community. In a heartfelt message, the teachers expressed their appreciation, stating, “To our beloved Headmistress, Madam Diana Dong, we extend our sincere gratitude for your kindness, support, and care. Your leadership has fostered a positive work environment, and we truly appreciate the gifts of love you bring to our school every day.” Madam Dong’s compassionate approach has not only made KTS a beacon of learning but has also cultivated a spirit of camaraderie among the staff. Her ability to listen and support her colleagues has been instrumental in creating a nurturing space where everyone feels valued. The teachers also took a moment to honor the legacy of their former Headmistress, Madam Wayo Ajara. They fondly recalled her dedication and selfless service during her tenure, recognizing the strong foundation she laid for the school. “We miss her presence and are grateful for her contributions,” they remarked, reminiscing about the positive changes she brought to the school. Meanwhile, in addition to expressing gratitude, the staff emphasized the importance of unity in their call to action. They urged their fellow headteachers and educators to come together as one family, sharing a vision for excellence that would ultimately benefit their students. “Together we stand, divided we fall,” they stated passionately. “May God guide us in our pursuit of unity and excellence.” As the marked the vacation day, the heartfelt sentiments shared by the teachers resonated throughout KTS, reinforcing the significance of strong leadership and collaboration. Under the guidance of Madam Dong, the school community is poised to continue thriving, united in their mission to nurture and inspire the next generation of learners. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
CCEM and Talent Homecare Agency Corp Join Forces for Children’s Welfare
On a memorable Easter Friday, April 18, 2025, CCEM found joy in the generous support of the Talent Homecare Agency Corp, a heartfelt organization from the United States dedicated to uplifting communities. Their mission focuses on providing much-needed educational support to children in need, and on this day, their kindness brought smiles to the faces of many in the Garu District of Upper East Ghana. The donation occurred at the Farfar Bible Club, where excitement filled the air as CCEM proudly distributed 100 school uniforms, exercise books, pens, pencils, sandals, and backpacks to eager children. The scene was one of pure happiness, with teachers and parents sharing in the celebration of this significant contribution to their community. As an added treat, the children enjoyed refreshments, making the day even more festive and memorable. In expressing heartfelt appreciation, CCEM extended their sincerest thanks to Talent Homecare Agency Corp for their unwavering generosity and support. CCEM also took this opportunity to acknowledge all the kind-hearted individuals who have contributed to their ongoing efforts since their establishment in 2016. The organization, committed to making a positive impact, relies heavily on the kindness of donors to enhance their initiatives. The importance of this donation cannot be overstated, as it promises to greatly improve both the education and well-being of the children involved. Through the partnership with Talent Homecare Agency Corp, CCEM’s work in fostering a supportive environment for those in need has been significantly bolstered. Established in 2016, the Christian Children Evangelistic Ministry (CCEM) is a non-denominational Christian organization aimed at nurturing children in the fear of God. Operating in the Upper East and North East Regions of Ghana, CCEM engages children, parents, and church leaders through a variety of enriching activities, which include quarterly retreats for children, training for children’s service teachers, church leadership engagements, parents’ retreats, Bible quizzes, and Bible club meetings. As CCEM carries the gospel across villages, it encounters numerous challenges faced by children, including a lack of basic needs such as food, educational materials, and school uniforms. In response to this pressing need, CCEM launched the CCEM Needy Children’s Project, a vital initiative designed to raise funds and provide support. Through this project, CCEM offers monthly feeding stipends to vulnerable children and quarterly distributions of school uniforms, sandals, and books, striving to alleviate their hardships. In alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), CCEM’s initiatives reflect a commitment to: SDG 2: Zero Hunger: working towards ending hunger, achieving food security, and improving nutrition. SDG 4: Quality Education: promoting inclusive and equitable quality education while encouraging lifelong learning. Through these efforts, CCEM continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children in need, providing them with the essential support required to thrive and fulfill their potential. As the organization moves forward, the collaboration with generous partners like Talent Homecare Agency Corp showcases the power of community and compassion in creating a brighter future for the next generation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Harvard in Standoff with Trump Administration Over Federal Funding
The Trump administration has announced a freeze on $2.2 billion in federal grants and $60 million in contracts for Harvard University due to the school’s refusal to implement policy changes demanded by the administration. Apexnewsgh reports These demands include ending diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, banning masks at campus protests, enforcing merit-based admissions and hiring, and reducing the influence of faculty viewed as politically active. Harvard University President Alan Garber坚ently rejected these demands, stating, “We will not surrender our independence or constitutional rights.” Garber added that most of the demands amount to government overreach into academic freedom. The university’s firm stance has led to a growing standoff between elite academic institutions and the federal government. Harvard faculty and the American Association of University Professors have filed a lawsuit seeking a temporary restraining order to block the funding freeze. The lawsuit argues that the administration is violating the First Amendment and attempting to dictate university policy. This move underscores the university’s commitment to defending its autonomy and academic freedom. The funding freeze could significantly impact Harvard’s research initiatives, potentially forcing some researchers to halt their work. However, the Department of Education has clarified that federal student loans and Pell grants will remain unaffected. Harvard President Garber assured students that they should continue to register for and attend classes without interruption. The standoff between Harvard and the Trump administration has sparked widespread debate, with some lawmakers expressing support for the administration’s actions. House Speaker Mike Johnson defended the order, stating it’s an application of common sense. Conversely, critics argue that the freeze would harm scientific research and local governments. Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea J. Campbell has joined 22 other state attorneys general in announcing plans to sue the White House, calling the freeze unconstitutional. Source: Apexnewsgh.com