Ghana Excels in WAEC Excellence Awards: Minister Attributes Success to President Akufo-Addo’s Education Legacy
The recent triumph of Ghana in this year’s West African Examinations Council (WAEC) Excellence Awards has been lauded by the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Adutwum, as a clear testament to President Akufo-Addo’s significant impact in the education sector. Apexnewsgh reports During the Council’s Meeting in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Ghana clinched the top three International Excellence Awards, designed to honor students who displayed exceptional performance in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). All three recipients of the prestigious awards hailed from Ghana, marking a momentous achievement for the nation. The spotlight was on St. James Seminary as the school’s students dominated the awards ceremony, with two out of the three top performers emerging from their ranks. This outstanding performance comes in the backdrop of the 2023 WASSCE, which was attempted by a record-breaking 2,327,342 candidates across the five member countries of the council. Addressing attendees at the launch of the Ghana Smart Schools project in Accra, Dr. Adutwum emphasized the impressive track record of Ghanaian students in the WAEC examinations. He proudly stated, “Last year, two out of three high-performing WASSCE students from West Africa hailed from Ghana, with two of them originating from a remarkable institution in Bono; St. James High School and Seminary.” The Minister continued, “This year, all three top-ranked students in West Africa hailed from Ghana, with once again two of them being products of St. James and one from Labone Senior High School. This speaks volumes of the enduring legacy established by the government of Nana Akufo-Addo in the field of education.” The remarkable success of Ghana in the WAEC Excellence Awards not only highlights the academic prowess of its students but also underscores the impactful reforms and initiatives spearheaded by the current administration towards enhancing the educational landscape of the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Energy Minister dismisses demand for load-shedding timetable as ECG assures of restoration efforts
The Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, has rejected the request made by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) for a load-shedding timetable amid ongoing power supply challenges in Ghana. Apexnewsgh reports The country has been grappling with unstable power supply, leading to disruptions in electricity supply and internet connectivity issues. The regulator, PURC, had instructed the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to submit a load management timetable by 2nd April 2024. However, ECG has stated that a load-shedding timetable is currently unnecessary. Dr. Opoku Prempeh expressed disbelief at the demand for a timetable, describing it as wishing evil upon the country. The Energy Minister assured Ghanaians that the government is working towards resolving the power supply issues. He acknowledged that power outages are a significant challenge but noted that the situation is better under President Akufo-Addo’s leadership than it was previously. Meanwhile, ECG has initiated a thorough inspection of all distribution transformers in the Ashanti Region to ensure uninterrupted power supply. The inspection covers all twenty-one districts in the region and aims to address disruptions caused by recent attacks on pylons by suspected thieves. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities to the authorities for swift action. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Former Sanitation Minister’s Housemaids Not Restricted from Disposing of Allegedly Stolen Properties
The High Court in Accra has recently decided to strike out State Prosecutors’ request to restrict two housemaids of former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, and five others from disposing of properties allegedly bought with stolen money from the alleged crime. This ruling was made by Justice Marie-Louise Simmons after the prosecution was asked to provide further and better particulars of their application seeking restrictions on the disposal of properties. During the court session on Monday, March 24, the State Prosecutors informed the Court that they were withdrawing the application, following discussions with their superiors. Justice Mrs. Simmons subsequently announced that the application for an order to restrict the disposal of properties had been struck out as withdrawn. The accused persons, including Patience Botwe and Sarah Agyei, have pleaded not guilty to a combined 31 counts, which include charges of conspiracy, stealing, dishonestly receiving, and money laundering. Despite being granted bail, they are still in lawful custody and are yet to fulfill their bail conditions. The Case Management Conference has commenced, and the parties involved are expected to conclude the case by April 17, 2024. The prosecution had previously sought an order restricting the disposal of properties allegedly purchased with stolen funds of the former sanitation minister, citing section 147 of the Criminal and Other Offenses Act, Act 30 as the grounds. However, the presiding judge, Justice Simmons, pointed out that the said section related to third parties in possession of properties and as a result, the court could not consider the application in its current form. The charges against the accused persons have also increased to 31 counts, including allegations of stealing various sums of money and money laundering. The accused persons, including the former minister’s housemaids, have not been restricted from disposing of the properties, paving the way for further proceedings in the case. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Zimbabwean Man Commits Suicide Live on Facebook After Alleged Girlfriend Betrayal
Kelvin Mhofu Ngoshi, a Zimbabwean residing in Middleburg, South Africa, shocked the online community after he tragically took his own life in a live-streamed video on Facebook. The devastating act was reportedly triggered by his girlfriend’s alleged infidelity. According to a report by Crime Watch Zimbabwe (CWZ) on X, the distressing video showed Ngoshi silently drinking what onlookers initially mistook for a regular Coca-Cola. It was later revealed that the drink had been intentionally poisoned, leading to Ngoshi’s untimely death. In the heart-wrenching footage, Ngoshi did not utter a single word as he consumed the toxic beverage, shedding light on the pain and despair he was experiencing due to the betrayal he faced. The harrowing incident has raised discussions around mental health, relationship struggles, and the impact of social media on individuals’ lives. Tragically, Ngoshi’s passing has left behind a young daughter, highlighting the devastating ripple effects of his decision on his loved ones. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of seeking help and support during times of emotional turmoil. As the online community mourns Ngoshi’s tragic end, calls for increased awareness and support for mental health issues continue to resonate, with hopes of preventing similar tragedies in the future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Newly constituted TOR board can turn the refinery into a profitable institution
The Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), Ghana’s premier oil refinery, has the potential to become a profitable institution if the newly constituted board of directors is allowed to focus on its core mandate without interference from external interests, a source familiar with the activities of the board has told the media. Apexnewsgh reports Appointed by President Akufo-Addo, the 11-member board, chaired by experienced professional Leon Kendon Appenteng, includes individuals with expertise in various sectors. The board is set to be sworn in on Tuesday, 26 March 2024, with the Energy Minister, Matthew Opoku Prempeh presiding over the ceremony. With the goal of providing quality energy products and services to fuel Ghana’s economic growth in an environmentally sustainable manner, the new board is seen as a fresh opportunity for TOR to regroup, cut costs, and enhance productivity. While concerns have been raised by some union members over the new board chair’s alleged involvement in a past botched deal, sources close to the board clarify that there is no evidence of any wrongdoing. Instead, the focus is now on exploring new partnership opportunities to steer TOR towards profitability. Tema Oil Refinery, founded in 1960, has faced financial challenges over the years, recording significant losses and accumulating debt. However, with strategic leadership and a commitment to operational excellence, TOR has the potential to become a success story in Ghana’s energy sector. The newly constituted board represents a mix of seasoned professionals from diverse backgrounds, poised to steer TOR towards a new chapter of growth and sustainability. By staying true to its core values and commitment to excellence, TOR can transform into a profitable and sustainable institution, benefitting both its workforce and the Ghanaian economy. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
President Akufo-Addo Announces Plan to Build 30 SMART Schools Across Ghana
President Akufo-Addo has revealed plans to construct at least thirty SMART schools across Ghana by the end of the year as part of the Ghana Smart Schools project. Apexnewsgh reports This initiative is aimed at enhancing senior high school education by providing teaching and learning management systems, digital learning content, and electronic devices to all senior high and TVET schools nationwide. The project is in line with the Ministry of Education’s digitalisation agenda for pre-tertiary education and supports the government’s objective of utilizing technological advancements to equip Ghanaian students for the fourth industrial revolution. During the official launch of the Ghana Smart Schools project in Accra, President Akufo-Addo highlighted that the schools will operate off the national electricity grid and will feature digitalized infrastructure to enhance teaching methods. He stated, “The other component of the Ghana Smart Schools project is the provision of infrastructure. The government intends to build 100 Smart Schools across the country. The first thirty of these will be completed this year, and the remaining seventy will be completed in the next two years.” President Akufo-Addo also disclosed that these 100 SMART schools will be strategically located in various cities and towns across all 16 regions of Ghana. The initiative marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to revolutionize education through technology and innovation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Isaac Adongo Warns Businesses Against Trusting Dr Bawumia’s Promises
Isaac Adongo, the Ranking Member on the Parliamentary Select Committee on Finance, has issued a cautionary reminder to business owners regarding promises made by Dr Mahamadu Bawumia, the Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Apexnewsgh reports Mr. Adongo emphasized that Dr Bawumia, as the head of the Economic Management Team, has a track record of unreliability. Adongo pointed out that Dr Bawumia had previously pledged a shift from taxation to production, only to impose an additional 40 taxes on businesses upon assuming office. Such broken promises have legitimately raised doubts about Bawumia’s credibility going into the 2024 general elections. Regarding Dr Bawumia’s recent promise of tax amnesty if elected in 2025, Adongo deemed it deceitful, advising business owners not to place their trust in it. He questioned Dr Bawumia’s motives for withholding tax relief until potentially being elected, suggesting that if Dr Bawumia genuinely intended to help struggling businesses, he would have utilized his current position as Vice President to implement such measures. Dr Bawumia announced his commitment to granting tax amnesty to all businesses and individuals to start afresh in 2025, during a gathering at the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Ghana Bar Association on March 20, 2024. Adongo made these remarks in response to Bawumia’s promise during an interview on Accra-based Neat FM on Monday, March 25, 2024. He criticized Dr Bawumia for making numerous promises leading up to the December 7 elections, citing a pattern of unfulfilled commitments. In summary, Isaac Adongo cautioned business owners against placing trust in Dr Bawumia’s promises, highlighting past instances of broken pledges and urging skepticism towards future assurances made by the Vice President. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Ghana’s Gross International Reserves See Growth in 2024
In the first two months of 2024, Ghana experienced a significant increase in its Gross International Reserves (GIR), reaching $4.02 billion by February. This marked a 9.99% rise from the previous year, excluding Encumbered Assets and Petroleum Fund. According to the Bank of Ghana’s March 2024 Summary of Economic and Financial Data, this amount translates to 1.8 months of import cover. In December 2023, GIR stood at $3.66 billion, equivalent to about 1.7 months of import cover. By January 2024, the figure had increased to $4.17 billion before slightly declining to $4.02 billion in February. The country’s reserves have been steadily growing since August 2023, as reported by the Bank of Ghana. Furthermore, Ghana recorded a trade surplus of $392.8 million in February 2024, accounting for 0.5% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), a decrease from the previous year’s $862.5 million, representing 1.1% of GDP. Exports in February 2024 amounted to $2.86 billion, with gold remaining a dominant export earning $1.26 billion. Crude oil exports generated $619.8 million, while cocoa proceeds declined to $508.4 million due to reduced volumes and prices. Other exports, including non-traditional exports, showed a marginal decrease to an estimated value of $479.5 million in February 2024 compared to $480.0 million in the previous year. Ghana’s trade balance and international reserves continue to be important indicators of the country’s economic performance. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Akufo-Addo Government to Launch ‘Ghana Smart School Project’ to Enhance E-Learning and Digitalisation
The Akufo-Addo-led government is poised to introduce the ‘Ghana Smart School Project’ initiative on Monday, 25 March 2024, with the aim of improving e-learning and digitalisation in the education sector. Apexnewsgh reports President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will spearhead the launch of this initiative, which is focused on strengthening Senior High School Education. The project will provide Teaching and Learning Management Systems, Digital Learning Content, and Electronic Devices to all Senior/TVET schools nationwide. According to a statement released by the Ministry of Education, signed by spokesperson Kwasi Kwarteng, the initiative is a key part of the Ministry’s digitalisation agenda for pre-tertiary education. It is also designed to help the government harness technological advancements to better prepare Ghanaian students for the fourth industrial revolution. The ‘Ghana Smart School Project’ is expected to revolutionise the education landscape in Ghana by equipping schools with the necessary tools and resources to facilitate e-learning and drive digitalisation in the education sector. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com
Dr. Bawumia Outlines Qualities Ghana’s Next Leader Must Possess
During a speech at the NPP International Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President and Flagbearer of the NPP, emphasized the qualities that he believes Ghana’s next leader must possess in order to move the country forward. Apexnewsgh reports Dr. Bawumia asserted that a visionary leader with a proven track record and credibility is essential to solving generational problems and advancing Ghana to the next level. He highlighted his own role as a problem solver and a generational thinker with innovative ideas, citing various policy initiatives he has spearheaded as Vice President. Notable among these initiatives are the digital national identity system, digital national property address system, mobile money interoperability, digitalization of public services, and delivery of essential drugs to remote areas through drones. Dr. Bawumia also pointed out other policies such as One Ambulance One Constituency and Agenda 111 hospitals as examples of his contributions to address the country’s challenges. Drawing a comparison between himself and his main competitor, John Mahama, Dr. Bawumia expressed confidence in his abilities based on his “track record, work ethics, and vision.” He contrasted himself with Mahama, stating that the former president’s performance during his tenure was lacking and that he has already been rejected twice by the electorate. Dr. Bawumia concluded that while he has not held the office of President before, his record as Vice President demonstrates his commitment to hard work and problem-solving. He positioned himself as the candidate for change and progress in Ghana’s political landscape, contrasting himself as a candidate for the future against Mahama representing the past. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana For publication please kindly contact us on 0256336062 or Email apexnewsgh@gmail.com