The U-20 national team

The Atlas Cubs’ triumph is not an accident of sport but the fruit of long-term reform, vision, and investment in Moroccan youth.

The royal reception of Morocco’s U-20 World Champions by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan was more than a gesture of congratulations — it was a symbolic moment in the story of a nation that has made youth and sports a pillar of its development strategy.

Strategic Reform and Modern Infrastructure

The team’s victory stands as “the culmination of a far-reaching strategic vision” and “the fruit of comprehensive reform launched with the Royal Message to the National Conference in Skhirat.”

Under HM King Mohammed VI’s guidance, Morocco has built one of the most advanced sports infrastructures in Africa and beyond. The Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmoura, described as “one of the finest sports centers in the world”, symbolizes this ambition.

Moreover, “the creation of more than 7,000 neighborhood football pitches across the Kingdom has democratized access to the sport and opened opportunities to all categories of society”.

A Comprehensive and Sustainable Success

Reaching the World Cup final itself was “strong evidence of the success of this comprehensive approach”.

And the U-20 world title serves as “confirmation that Moroccan excellence is not circumstantial, but a sustainable and inclusive success that cements Morocco’s status as a great footballing nation on the global stage”.

This victory represents the tangible results of a consistent royal vision: Morocco’s commitment to education, discipline, and the belief that sports can drive both national pride and social cohesion.

Source: MAP

The Ministry of Education has launched urgent investigations into allegations of bribery linked to the ongoing school placement process.

This follows media reports quoting the Member of Parliament for Akrofuom, Joseph Azumah, who claimed that a resident approached him for help in securing school admission and later returned with proof of having paid GH¢30,000 to secure the placement.

“Someone who knew I was an MP came to me at Community 16, where I live, and asked me to help their child gain admission to a certain school. Within a week, the person came back with evidence showing that they had paid GH¢30,000 to secure the placement. Why are we doing this to ourselves?,” the MP was quoted as saying.

In a statement issued on October 22, 2025, and signed by Dr. Clement Apaak, Deputy Minister for Education, the Ministry described the allegations as serious and worrying. It said the Minister for Education has met with National Security and referred the matter for urgent and thorough investigation.

The Ministry mentioned that similar concerns had earlier been raised by Mr. Richard Asamoah Mensah, Secretary of the Construction and Building Workers’ Union of the Trades Union Congress (TUC).

The statement assured the public that the Ministry was committed to upholding integrity, transparency, and fairness in the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS).

It warned that anyone found guilty of bribery, extortion, or manipulation of the system would face the full force of the law.

The Ministry further called on Joseph Azumah, Mr. Richard Asamoah Mensah, and other individuals with credible information to cooperate with investigators to ensure accountability.

According to the Ministry, it remains firm in its commitment to protect the integrity of the placement process and to make sure that access to secondary education in Ghana remains free, fair, and based on merit.

By: Jacob Aggrey

Jerry John Rawlings’ transformative rule and lasting legacy

By Stanley Senya

Accra, Oct. 21, GNA – The Slamm Foundation, in partnership with the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (ARCC) and the National Youth Authority (NYA), has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the country’s digital transformation.

This is by equipping young people with essential skills in cybersecurity and Information Technology (IT).

The week-long Cybersecurity and IT Training Programme, held in Kumasi, brought together over 120 young participants and offered practical instruction in cybersecurity monitoring and policy, basic networking, IT audit, digital forensics, and investigative tools.

Dr. Samuel Boateng, Chief Executive Officer of Slamm Foundation said the initiative formed part of the Foundation’s long-term vision to empower African youth with technology-driven skills that are relevant to the global digital economy.

“I have acquired cybersecurity and IT knowledge over the past 25 years, and I believe there’s no better way to give back than to share that knowledge,” he said.

The CEO said the world was changing, and Africa, especially Ghana must be part of this digital revolution.

He said “My wife and I founded Slamm Technology in 2007, and for the past five years, we have trained more than 200,000 young people. Our goal is to train one million within the next ten years.”

He explained that the training aligned with the global Cybersecurity Awareness Month and aimed to help the youth develop the digital competencies needed to create jobs, start technology-driven enterprises, and contribute to national development.

“We are targeting the youth so they can build their technology ideas and create employment opportunities. That’s how we build a stronger digital Ghana,” Dr. Boateng added.

Mrs Francisca Boateng, the Founder, Slamm Foundation expressed commitment to providing further support to the participants.

She encouraged the participants to start applying the knowledge gained in their various communities.

“I wish to congratulate the participants and want to encourage them to make the most of what they have learnt here this week and we are ready and available to support – internships, job opportunities them all the way through,” she added.

Mr Samuel Twum, the Deputy Director of Administration at the ARCC representing the Ashanti Regional Minister commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful.

“This training has come at a time when technology and innovation, along with related cybersecurity challenges, are on the rise,” he said.

It covered key cybersecurity concepts, practical demonstrations, and hands-on exercises that have enhanced participants’ skills.

He said the employable IT skills would enable them to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s digital transformation.

Mr. Twum, expressed appreciation to the Slamm Foundation and its partners for their continuous investment in Ghanaian youth, emphasising that the ARCC remained committed to working with such organisations to strengthen the nation’s digital future.

“The Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council is forever grateful to the Slamm Foundation for this impactful collaboration. We encourage all participants to apply what they have learnt to improve their lives and Ghana’s cyberspace,” he stated.

Mr George Owel Amponsah, the Ashanti Regional Director of NYA praised the programme’s success, highlighting its role in promoting digital literacy and responsible online behaviour among young people.

“This training has empowered our young people with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the digital age. We are especially grateful to Slamm Foundation, Slamm Technology, ISC2, ARCC, and the Regional Minister for their unwavering support,” he said.

He added that the NYA would continue to collaborate with Slamm Foundation and other partners to connect graduates of the training to firms for internships and job opportunities.

“We want to encourage you not to rush. Volunteer, gain experience, and grow into your dreams. Our doors are always open to support you,” Mr. Amponsah assured.

Fathia Chindo Yahaya, one of the participants said “For the past five days, we have gained knowledge on cybersecurity, networking, and risk management, especially how to identify when a system is under threat and how to address it early.”

She expressed the confidence to go back home and help the women in her community, especially market women, to be vigilant and to use strong passwords to protect their financial accounts.

GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba

Ghana’s former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has died at the age of 76.

She was the widow of Ghana’s longest-serving leader, Jerry John Rawlings, who died five years ago.

He led two coups before twice being elected president in multiparty polls.

Social media is awash with tributes to the former first lady, who Ghanaian presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu said had died after a short illness on Thursday morning.

As first lady, Mrs Agyeman-Rawlings founded the 31st December Women’s Movement – a women’s group named after the date of her husband’s second coup which took place in 1981.

The aim of the non-governmental organisation over the decades has been to empower women and teach them how to earn money to develop their communities.

The Eastern Regional Police Command has assured the public, especially visitors traveling to Akropong for the Odwira Festival, that adequate security measures will be in place before, during, and after the event.

This comes after one person was killed and others were injured following a violent clash during the Odwira Festival at Ahwerease in the Akuapem South Municipality of the Eastern Region on Wednesday, October 22.

The festival began on Monday, 20th October 2025, and will climax on Friday, 24th October, with a durbar of Chiefs and other commemorative activities.

The police, in a statement on Thursday, October 23, said key security protocols have been set for the festival, including a strict ban on weapons and live ammunition within the durbar grounds and the municipality. Only authorised individuals permitted to fire musketry will be identifiable and properly tagged at all times.

Additionally, motorbikes will not be allowed beyond the old Assembly junction in Akropong, with designated parking available at Audit Service premises and the old court premises, among other locations.

To ease traffic congestion, official parking areas have been designated at Shoe Fabrique, the Municipal Assembly, Dachie Junior School, Christ Church Park, and the Old Court Premises.

All festival activities, including the visit of Amaprobi to bring the Odwira, will take place during daylight hours to ensure sufficient security coverage.

Travelers heading to the region are advised to use alternative routes such as Ofankor-Pokuase-Nsawam and Dodowa-Somanya-Adukrom roads to avoid heavy traffic along the Ayi-Mensah-Aburi-Mamfe road.

Police presence will be heightened on highways, in Akropong township, and at the durbar grounds throughout the festival period. The Regional Police Command emphasized their commitment to maintaining peace and will take strict action against anyone disturbing public order.

The police urge all visitors and residents to cooperate fully to ensure a safe and peaceful Odwira Festival.

Meanwhile, the 34 suspects arrested following a violent clash at Ahwerease during the Odwira Festival have been arraigned before the Mampong Magistrate Court, the Eastern Regional Police have confirmed.

Read also…

Odwira shooting incident: 34 charged with rioting and causing harm

Ghana’s former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has died at the age of 76.

She was the widow of Ghana’s longest-serving leader, Jerry John Rawlings, who died five years ago.

He led two coups before twice being elected president in multiparty polls.

Social media is awash with tributes to the former first lady, who Ghanaian presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu said had died after a short illness on Thursday morning.

As first lady, Mrs Agyeman-Rawlings founded the 31st December Women’s Movement – a women’s group named after the date of her husband’s second coup which took place in 1981.

The aim of the non-governmental organisation over the decades has been to empower women and teach them how to earn money to develop their communities.

Parliament has adjourned its sitting following the death of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, former First Lady of Ghana and founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement. 

The announcement of the adjournment was confirmed by our parliamentary affairs reporter. 

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, who served as First Lady from 1982 to 2001 during the tenure of her late husband, Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, was widely recognised for her advocacy for women’s rights and social development initiatives. 

She championed education for children in underserved communities and was instrumental in the enactment of the Intestate Succession Law, which strengthened inheritance rights for women across the country.

Her death has prompted tributes from politicians across the political divide, including members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and other parties, who commended her contributions to Ghana’s social and political landscape.

Parliament is expected to resume sittings after a period of mourning, with further discussions anticipated on paying official tribute to Mrs Agyemang-Rawlings.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Your Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama,

You have long demonstrated deep admiration for Ghana’s founding father, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, a man whose vision for a sovereign, self-reliant, and technologically advanced Ghana still inspires millions today.

Among Nkrumah’s boldest and most far-sighted ambitions was his desire to bring nuclear energy to Ghana, not for war, but for peace and economic growth. And now, Mr President, you have the singular opportunity in your Legacy Presidential term to transform that vision into reality, to leave your mark not only as a leader of your time but as the one who carried forward Nkrumah’s unfinished dream.

A Legacy That Awaits Fulfilment

In 1963, Dr Nkrumah established the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) as a cornerstone of our nation’s scientific future. He believed strongly that nuclear energy would be the backbone of Ghana’s industrialisation and long-term energy security. Though political events delayed the fulfilment of that dream, the vision never died. And today, Ghana is not starting from scratch.

More Than Three Decades of Readiness

President, for over 30 years, Ghana has worked steadily with international partners, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and countries with advanced nuclear programs through sustained technical cooperation, education, and workforce training.

Through these decades of quiet, diligent preparation:

• Ghana has built a highly skilled local workforce of nuclear scientists (home and abroad), engineers, technicians, and regulators ready to operate and manage a nuclear energy program safely and efficiently.

• The country has successfully operated a research reactor at GAEC and completed several IAEA milestones, demonstrating commitment, capacity, and credibility.

• Key national institutions have been established or strengthened, including the Nuclear Regulatory Authority, to meet international safety and oversight standards. In simple terms: Ghana is ready.

This is not an aspiration built on hope alone; it is backed by decades of capacity building, technical expertise, and international confidence.

Why You, Why Now?

President Mahama, your legacy already includes transformative strides in infrastructure, education, and energy access. But there remains a powerful, unfinished chapter that only you can complete.

Before you leave office, you can be the president who cuts the sod for Ghana’s first nuclear power plant. Not just as a developmental milestone, but as a symbolic act of continuity linking your leadership to that of Nkrumah in a direct and powerful way.

By championing this final leap:

• You will ensure Ghana’s long-term energy independence and reliability.

• You will unlock industrial potential, as stable base-load power attracts investment and boosts productivity.

• You will elevate Ghana as a continental leader in science and innovation, inspiring future generations.

A Legacy Cast in Stone

Dr Nkrumah laid the foundation. Ghana’s scientists and engineers have spent over three decades preparing the ground. All that remains is a leader who understands Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s nuclear energy access vision to cut the sod, authorise the build, and set Ghana irreversibly on the path to nuclear energy.

President, this is your moment. Let it not be said that we waited for the world to act while we stood idle. Let it be remembered that under your leadership, Ghana moved from readiness to realisation.

Let it be said that President Mahama not only honour Nkrumah in word, but in action.

Meanwhile, watch the latest Sports Check interview with Alex Kotey, the GFA Referees Manager below:

By Morkporkpor Anku

Accra, Oct. 22, GNA- The Ghana Gold Board (“GoldBod”) has opened applications for Jewellery and Fabrication Licences (Categories A, B, and C), as well as applications for Refinery License, effective October 22, 2025.

This initiative forms part of the GoldBod’s broader mandate to formalize downstream gold value-addition, enhance regulatory compliance and promote sustainable industry growth in accordance with the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).

A statement issued in Accra by the Board reminded the public that only duly licensed persons were authorised to engage in gold trading, jewellery manufacturing, gold fabrication and gold refining businesses in Ghana.

It said engaging in these activities without a valid GoldBod licence constituted an offence and is punishable under Act 1140.

“All existing licenses issued by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources for gold refining, fabrication, among others, are no longer valid under the current legal framework,” it added.

It said all existing jewellery manufacturers, fabricators and gold refineries were by this statement notified and required to regularise their operations by applying for and acquiring a license under the Ghana Gold Board Act (ACT 1140), 2025 latest by 31st December, 2025.

The statement said operating a gold refinery business, jewelry manufacturing business and/or gold fabrication business after the non-extendable deadline ( December, 31, 2025) without a GoldBod license, shall constitute a punishable criminal offense.

It said, all applications are to be submitted exclusively via the official GoldBod website www.goldbod.gov.gh, while manual or in-person submissions will not be accepted.

“Applicants are advised to carefully review all eligibility requirements, documentation
checklists, and applicable fee schedules published on the website before submission,” it added.

New Licenses now opened for application are: Jewellery & Fabrication Licence – Category A for Ghanaian sole proprietor artisans and fully-owned Ghanaian small-scale jewellery businesses engaged in the business of fabricating jewellery and other castings solely for local sale.

It said for Jewellery & Fabrication Licence – Category B, it was for fully-owned Ghanaian registered businesses or companies and medium-sized manufacturers, engaged in the business of fabricating jewellery and other castings for local sale and export.

The statement said for Jewellery & Fabrication Licence – Category C, it was for large-scale companies (both local and foreign) fabricating jewellery and other castings for local sale and export.

It said for the Refinery Licence, it was for entities seeking to operate gold refineries in Ghana.
GNA

Edited by Samuel Osei-Frempong

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings is a former first lady of Ghana

Social media has been awash with tributes and messages of condolence following the passing of Ghana’s former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, at the age of 76.

Sources close to the family confirmed that she passed away in the early hours of October 23, 2025, at the Ridge Hospital in Accra.

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, was a towering figure in Ghana’s political and social history.

She was a staunch advocate for women’s rights and social empowerment and founded the 31st December Women’s Movement to advance the welfare and participation of women in Ghana’s development.

She later went on to form the National Democratic Party (NDP) after parting ways with the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Before her passing, Nana Konadu remained active in public life. She was among the dignitaries who laid wreaths at the Forecourt of the Jubilee House to honour the eight public servants who died in a helicopter crash, and she also participated in the Dote Yie funeral rites for the late Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.

Her death has left many Ghanaians in shock and sorrow, prompting reflection on her legacy and impact.

Tributes from all walks of life have since poured in across social media.

Businessman and philanthropist Kofi Abban wrote:

“I’m so sorry to hear of the passing of former First Lady of Ghana, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and all who mourn her loss. May you find strength, peace, and comfort in this difficult time.”

Another user posted, “Ghana’s former First Lady, Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, has reportedly passed away at Ridge Hospital, Accra. May her soul rest in perfect peace.”

Media personality Fiifi Adinkra added, “Heartfelt condolences on the passing of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement. Her remarkable contributions to women’s empowerment, leadership, and national development will forever be remembered.”

Others shared their shock in a more casual tone.

“You shun dey booze nor then somebody die again. RIP Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings,” one user wrote.

Another netizen reflected on the number of prominent figures who have passed away in 2025, “What a year. We’ve lost so many great people — the Asantehemaa, the chopper crash victims, Daddy Lumba, Kantanka, and now our former First Lady. May their souls rest in peace.”

Heartfelt condolences on the passing of Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement. Her remarkable contributions to women’s empowerment, leadership, and national development will forever be remembered. pic.twitter.com/zWHPRprwI3

— Fiifi Adinkra (@fiifiadinkra) October 23, 2025

I’m so sorry to hear of the passing of former First Lady of Ghana, Nana Konadu Agyeman‑Rawlings. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends and all who mourn her loss.

May you find strength, peace and comfort in this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/v64KIqJ7M3

— Kofi Abban (@kofiamoaabban) October 23, 2025

Ghana’s former First Lady Konadu Agyeman Rawlings has reportedly passed away in Ridge-Hospital, Accra. May her soul rest in perfect peace 🙏🏾💐🕊️🖤#Ghana #NDC #FirstLady pic.twitter.com/hRH3Qj0Hnc

— Kelvin Dagbatsa Doe (@_K_D_D) October 23, 2025

What a year, this year we’ve lost a lot of our great people. Asantehemaa, the chopper crash, Daddy Lumba, Kantanka, and a lot and now our former First Lady, may their souls rest in peace

— Baby Face 🇬🇭 (@MrHood70) October 23, 2025

Rest in peace, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Your legacy in shaping early childhood education in Ghana endures. 🕊️

Our prayers and thoughts are with your children. One can only imagine how children feel when their mother is gone. pic.twitter.com/QylWl7TI8i

— Mark Eghan, PhD (@dr_eghan) October 23, 2025

Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings has passed on

May she have favor with God

— INFLUENCER 🇹🇿🇺🇬🇰🇪 (@influencerwoww) October 23, 2025

We mourn the passing of

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, former first lady of Ghana. May her soul rest in peace and her spirit continue to inspire. pic.twitter.com/pqS1oLCOIl

— Kasa Channel (@KasaChannel1) October 23, 2025

AK/MA

Former First Lady of Ghana, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, passed away on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the Ridge Hospital in Accra. She was 76 years old.

Early Life and Education

Born on November 17, 1948, in Cape Coast, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings (née Agyeman) received her early education at Ghana International School and later at Achimota School, where she met her future husband, Jerry John Rawlings.

She pursued higher education at the University of Science and Technology (now KNUST), studying Art and Textiles, before earning a diploma in Interior Design from the London College of Arts in 1975.

Over the years, she expanded her academic and professional expertise with diplomas in Personnel Management and Development Studies from Ghanaian institutions and completed fellowships in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Management in the United States.

Role as First Lady and Political Career

Nana Konadu served as Ghana’s First Lady during two major political eras—first in 1979 and later from 1981 to 2001—spanning both the military and civilian administrations of her husband, the late President Jerry John Rawlings.

She founded and led the 31st December Women’s Movement (DWM) in 1982, an influential organization that sought to empower women socially, politically, and economically.

Under her leadership, the movement became one of the most impactful women’s groups in Africa, mobilising over two million women across Ghana.

In 2009, she was elected First Vice Chairperson of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and made history in 2016 as the first woman to contest Ghana’s presidency, running on the ticket of the National Democratic Party (NDP)—a party she founded after leaving the NDC. Her bold move earned her the nickname “the Hillary Clinton of Africa.”

Advocacy and Impact

Throughout her public life, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings was a formidable advocate for gender equality and social justice. Under her leadership, the 31st December Women’s Movement established over 870 pre-schools, promoted adult literacy, family planning, child development, and women’s participation in governance.

Her efforts were instrumental in Ghana becoming the first country to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1991.

She also championed the Intestate Succession Law (PNDCL 111), a landmark legislation that secured inheritance rights for widows, reshaping Ghana’s customary laws on marriage and property.

Through tireless grassroots mobilization, she inspired women across the country to engage in politics and civic life, leading to a marked increase in female representation in Parliament in the early 1990s.

Legacy

Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings leaves behind a formidable legacy as one of Ghana’s most influential women—a visionary leader, a reformer, and a symbol of courage in the struggle for gender equality and national development.

Her life’s work transformed the discourse on women’s empowerment in Ghana and across Africa, and her voice remained a force for progress long after she left office.

Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings dies at 76