Ministerial Nominee Andrew Egyapa Mercer Makes Case for Completion of National Cathedral Project
Ministerial nominee for Tourism, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, reiterated the importance of completing the National Cathedral project for the nation. Mr. Mercer, who is also the Sekondi Member of Parliament, emphasized the significant state investment already made in the project and stressed the necessity of seeing it through to its conclusion. Dismissing claims that the project is the “world’s most expensive hole,” Mercer highlighted its broader national significance and the imperative of national unity in ensuring its successful realization. He cautioned against leaving the project unfinished after substantial state expenditure, noting that doing so would be counterproductive. Mercer underlined the importance of efficiently utilizing state resources for the Cathedral’s construction, emphasizing its potential to positively contribute to the country’s development agenda. He stated, “While we may not have unlimited resources, substantial funding has been allocated to the project, and I believe it is imperative for its completion. The notion that it is the world’s most expensive hole is not acceptable. It stands as a national asset in its current state and must be finalized, in my opinion.” With these remarks, Ministerial nominee Andrew Egyapa Mercer has made a strong case for the completion of the National Cathedral project, highlighting its importance for the nation and advocating for the efficient use of resources to see it through to its conclusion. Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062
NSS Deploys Over 13,000 Trained Teachers for National Service
The National Service Scheme (NSS) has announced the deployment of 13,516 trained teachers from accredited Colleges of Education to undertake their mandatory 1-year national service in basic and second-cycle schools across the country. This move is aimed at addressing the shortage of teachers in schools and improving the quality of education in Ghana. According to a statement issued by the NSS management on Monday, March 4, 2024, all service personnel in this category are required to log on to the scheme’s website to check their placements and proceed to the various NSS Regional Secretariats to complete the registration process. Registration is set to begin on Friday, March 8, 2024, at all centres, and deployed trained teachers are urged to accept their placements and report accordingly. This initiative will not only provide valuable teaching support to schools but also give the newly qualified teachers practical experience in the field. It is essential for the development of the education sector and the overall well-being of students in the country. The NSS management is confident that this deployment will contribute positively to the educational system and hopes for a successful service year for all trained teachers. Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062
IMF Monitoring Impact of Ghana’s Anti-LGBTQI Bill on Financial Support
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has stated that it is unable to provide any comments regarding Ghana’s anti-LGBTQI bill, which was recently approved by Parliament but has not yet been signed into law. In an email response to Joy Business, the IMF mentioned that they are not in a position to assess the economic and financial implications of a bill that has not been enacted. The IMF also noted that its internal policies do not permit discrimination based on personal characteristics, including gender, gender expression, or sexual orientation. Emphasizing the importance of diverse and inclusive economies, the IMF stated that they are closely monitoring the developments in Ghana. On the other hand, Ghana’s Ministry of Finance has raised concerns about potential financial repercussions if President Nana Akufo-Addo approves the anti-LGBTQI bill. The ministry warned that Ghana could lose approximately $3.8 billion in financial support from the World Bank if the bill becomes law. This loss would impact various development projects and the country’s foreign exchange reserves. Furthermore, the US Ambassador to Ghana, Ms. Virginia Evelyn Palmer, expressed disappointment over the bill, stating that it would violate basic human rights and constitutional freedoms. She highlighted the negative impact the bill could have on public order, public health, Ghana’s international reputation, and economy. Ms. Palmer urged for the protection of the LGBTQ community and emphasized the importance of inclusivity for economic growth and investment in Ghana. If the bill is enacted, Ghana may face significant economic consequences and potential loss of international financial support. The government’s decision regarding the bill could have lasting implications on the country’s development and global standing. Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062
South Dayi MP Apologizes to Asamoah Gyan for Controversial Penalty Comments
In a surprising turn of events, South Dayi MP Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor has issued a public apology to former Ghanaian international footballer Asamoah Gyan for his controversial comments regarding Gyan’s missed penalty during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Initially, Mr. Dafeamekpor, a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), had alleged that Gyan’s penalty miss against Uruguay was intentional and politically motivated. He suggested that Gyan may have thrown away the penalty to prevent the NDC from gaining popularity. However, after facing criticism for his remarks, Mr. Dafeamekpor retracted his statement and expressed remorse for any offense caused to Gyan. He took to social media to extend an unreserved apology to the former Ghana Captain, acknowledging the iconic role of the Black Stars and other national teams in representing the country’s aspirations on the global stage. “The Black Stars & other national teams have iconically rallied & carried our passions, dreams and aspirations for glory to the world. Upon reflection & calls from people like Kenpong, I retract & unreservedly apologize to Asamoah Gyan for my comments,” Mr. Dafeamekpor wrote in his social media post. It is worth noting that Mr. Dafeamekpor’s allegation against Gyan came after the former footballer decided to join New Patriotic Party flagbearer Mahamadu Bawumia’s manifesto campaign team for the 2024 elections. The apology from the MP signals a shift in tone and a willingness to acknowledge any missteps in his original comments. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
Parliamentarians Demand Investigation into Alleged GHS68.5 Million Expenditure on WASSCE Past Questions
The Minority in Parliament has raised alarm over the reported spending of GHS68.5 million on photocopying past questions for WASSCE candidates in 2020 and 2021. The issue was brought to light by Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum during a session in Parliament, revealing that the Ministry had allocated GHS33.6 million in 2020 and over GHS34 million in 2021 for this purpose. In response to these revelations, the Minority is calling for a comprehensive investigation into the matter. Ashaiman Member of Parliament, Ernest Norgbey, expressed the caucus’ concerns over the alleged misuse of public funds and has urged the Special Prosecutor to intervene to address what they perceive as potential corruption. The procurement of past questions from Messrs Kingdom Books and Stationery at a unit price of GHS78.00 for the preparation of SHS students for the WASSCE has raised eyebrows among the Minority members. They question the exorbitant cost per copy and the overall expenditure of taxpayers’ money on such materials. Despite Minister Adutwum’s explanation that the procurement was intended to support students amidst the challenges of COV1D-19 and aid in their exam preparation, the Minority remains skeptical. They have vowed to pursue a thorough investigation to ensure that accountability and transparency are maintained in the use of public funds. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the Special Prosecutor will heed the calls for an inquiry into the alleged misappropriation of GHS68.5 million on WASSCE past questions. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.
Blakk Rasta on a passionate mission to revive a sense of patriotism among the younger generation in Ghana
Popular Ghanaian reggae musician, Blakk Rasta, is on a passionate mission to revive a sense of patriotism among the younger generation in Ghana. As part of his Dear Ghana Tour, the musician is urging Ghanaians, especially the youth, to embrace their national identity and hold onto the core values that define the country. In a candid conversation with Ital on A1 Radio’s City Bus monitored by Apexnewsgh, Blakk Rasta expressed his deep concern over the apparent lack of patriotism within the country. He lamented the diminished sense of national pride, particularly evident in religious institutions where materialism has overshadowed patriotism. Blakk Rasta highlighted the need for Ghanaians to prioritize their country over seeking opportunities abroad, emphasizing the importance of fostering a strong sense of love and respect for Ghana. He expressed disappointment in the societal trend of glorifying corrupt individuals instead of recognizing and celebrating true patriots. “All we are interested in is electing thieves and awarding them, celebrating them for being corrupt and calling them smart instead of us calling them thieves.” Taking his message directly to the youth, Blakk Rasta is conducting visits to Senior High Schools as part of the Dear Ghana Tour. Through engaging discussions and conscious reggae music, the musician is encouraging students to establish Young Patriots Clubs within their schools to promote a culture of patriotism and responsibility. Blakk Rasta’s efforts to inspire a new generation of patriotic Ghanaians are resonating strongly with the students, who are eager to learn more about their country’s history and culture. The impact of the Dear Ghana Tour is fostering a sense of pride and commitment to Ghana among the youth, paving the way for a brighter future filled with patriotic citizens. Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062.