By Iddi Yire

Accra, March 10, GNA – Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called for an end to violence against women, including gender-based violence.

The Vice President made the appeal in her keynote address at a National Dialogue to mark this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) in Accra, on the theme “Resetting the Agenda for Women: Accelerating Action on Women’s Rights, Equity, and Empowerment.”

This year’s IWD marks 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a commitment to advancing women’s rights globally. Reflecting on Ghana’s progress.

“We must choose to end all forms of violence against women and girls. In whatever form it may take, in whatever rationale we can profess for it, whether human trafficking, domestic violence, accusations of witchcraft and the resulting instant justice, child marriage, female genital mutilation or sexual violence, all of these demand our sustained action.

“Beyond decrying these unhelpful practices, we must interrogate whether there is any reason to justify these, to see them persist like incurable diseases in the space of women in their lives.

“We must try to tackle the problems at their roots, ignoring the needs of girls and women, obstructing their pathways to advancement, killing their dreams and clipping their wings, enforcing women’s acceptance of mediocrity, refusing even to encourage them, glamorizing systems that keep us at the bottom.”

She said all of these also constitute unacceptable forms of violence against women and they require urgent action.

“Today, we stand in solidarity with women and girls. We must live in dignity. We must be intolerant of any form of violence against girls and women, whether in our homes, in our schools, places of work, places of worship, communities and any place in our nation.”

The Vice President said it was time for women, it was time for men too, boys and girls, to choose to end such violations of fundamental human rights.

“Just the right to grow, the right to choose what helps, the right to contribute to your community, the right to contribute to your nation. It should not be seen as an aberration.”

The Vice President restated the need for sustained and inclusive action in the areas of women’s leadership and economic empowerment, girls’ education and reproductive health rights and eliminating gender-based violence in all forms.

She called for a renewed commitment to addressing systemic barriers that hindered women’s advancement, from harmful societal practices to economic and educational inequalities.

Vice President Professor Opoku-Agyemang also highlighted the Government’s immediate action on providing sanitary pads to keep girls in school.

She said the Affirmative Action Act beckoned, and that they must seize that moment to push forward policies that uplift, protect, and empower all Ghanaian women

She said the milestone that Ghanaians want to achieve as a country through an inclusive and sustained method was highlighted by an intersexual, intergenerational women’s dialogue, which aims at resetting the agenda for all of them, uplifting all Ghanaian girls and women, whether they were students, babies, parents, traders, farmers or fisher folk, people in other professions, homemakers or rulers, regardless their backgrounds, and abilities or disabilities, they all matter.

GNA

Ghana stands to lose about GH¢6.4 billion in revenue if the government cancels the COVID-19 and the E-Levy taxes in the 2025 budget.

That’s according to a pre-budget survey by auditing and accounting firm, KPMG.

This was stated in its 2025 Pre-Budget Survey submitted to the Ministry of Finance.

“KPMG notes that abolishing the E-Levy and COVID-19 Levy could result in a revenue shortfall of at least GH¢6.4 billion.

“Beyond the revenue measures proposed by respondents, the government should also leverage technology to enhance property rate administration and collection, as well as review taxation within the digital and e-commerce sectors. Additionally, strengthening public financial management systems, closing loopholes in public procurement, and reducing wasteful spending are critical to improving fiscal sustainability,” it said.

The firm also stated that for Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy to succeed, it should focus on industries that naturally thrive with round-the-clock operations, increased consumer demand, and global market competitiveness such as manufacturing, transport and logistics, healthcare, retail and hospitality, and digital services.

Most of the respondents in the survey believed that the new administration policy initiatives that will be in the budget can be the base for recovering the economy.

SP/AE

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The St. Augustine’s College Past Students Union (APSU) is inviting all Augusco alumni (APSUnians), students (Augustinians), staff, and well-wishers to join in the grand celebration of the College’s 95th Anniversary.

This landmark occasion is an opportunity to reflect on our cherished legacy, celebrate our achievements, and strengthen the bonds that make us one united APSU family.

The theme for the 95th Anniversary and Speech Day is “Leveraging Innovation Towards Economic and Social Sustainability for the Next Generation.”
With a rich history of excellence in academia, discipline, and leadership, St. Augustine’s College has shaped generations of trailblazers who continue to impact various fields across the globe. The 95th Anniversary is not just a commemoration but a call to action an opportunity to give back, mentor, and inspire the next generation of APSUnians.

A Week of Celebrations – Uniting the APSU Spirit

The anniversary week is packed with exciting, insightful, and memorable activities designed to celebrate our shared heritage. Here’s what to expect:

12th March 2025: Igniting Knowledge and Inspiration

• Lecture & Inter-Houses Quiz: A deep dive into the history of our alma mater and the anniversary theme, testing the students’ knowledge and sparking intellectual curiosity.
• APSU Student Mentorship and Career Workshop: An enriching session where accomplished APSUnians share their experiences, guide students, and inspire future leaders.

13th March, 2025: Spirit, Strength, and Tradition

• 95th Anniversary Float in Cape Coast Township: Showcasing APSU’s presence and legacy through an energetic procession in the heart of Cape Coast.
• Durbar with Teaching Staff: Strengthening bonds between APSU and the College’s esteemed faculty.
• Bonfire and Procession on Campus: Rekindling the flames of tradition, unity, and the APSUnian spirit under the starry sky.
  

14th March, 2025: Sports, Health, and Community Engagement

• Medical Outreach: Giving back to the Cape Coast community through healthcare services.
• APSU Games with Students: A thrilling encounter of past and present students in the spirit of sportsmanship.
• Annual Congress: The heartbeat of APSU’s governance, where alumni discuss the way forward.
• Fireworks Display: Lighting up the Cape Coast sky in a spectacular celebration of 95 years of excellence.
• APSU Pre-Speech Day Hangout – ‘Back to Cape Jams’ at The Breeze: A nostalgic musical and social experience with old friends and new connections.

15th March 2025: A Day of Honour and Celebration

• Parade by School Cadet and Regimental Band: A disciplined and elegant march showcasing the school’s military precision and pride.
• Legacy Project Handover by APSU 2000: This year’s hosting group leaves an enduring mark by presenting a legacy project to the College.
• 95th Anniversary Speech & Prize-Giving Day: Recognizing and rewarding academic excellence, dedication, and contributions to the Augusco community.
• 95th Anniversary Dinner Dance at Pempamsie Hotel: An elegant evening of camaraderie, good food, and entertainment.
• 95th Anniversary Night Party at The Lush: Wrapping up the day with a grand APSU-style celebration.

16th March 2025: A Time for Reflection and Fellowship

• 95th Anniversary Thanksgiving Mass on Campus: Giving thanks to God for 95 years of impact and looking ahead with hope.
• Aponkye K with the Headmaster at The Breeze: A beloved tradition of sharing a meal and forging stronger ties with the leadership of the College.

17th – 31st March 2025: Keeping the Momentum Alive

• Post Speech Day Appreciation: Expressing gratitude to all who made the celebration a success.
• Publicity and Media Engagement: Keeping the APSU spirit in the spotlight and ensuring continued engagement beyond the anniversary.

APSU Secretariat Announcement on Financial Obligations

The APSU Secretariat hereby announces for the information of its general membership that as of 10th March 2025, the following Year Groups, Branches, and Chapters of the St. Augustine’s Past Students Union (APSU) have fulfilled their financial obligations wholly or in part as per the Union’s Constitution:

Year Groups Fully Compliant:

• Year Groups up to APSU 1975
• APSU 1983 Year Group
• APSU 1986 Year Group
• APSU 1989 Year Group
• APSU 1990 Year Group
• APSU 1984 Year Group
• APSU 1994 Year Group
• APSU 1991 Year Group
• APSU 2003 Year Group
• APSU 1992 Year Group
• APSU 1985 Year Group
• APSU 1982 Year Group
• APSU 1980 Year Group
• APSU 2005 Year Group
• APSU 2002 Year Group

Year Groups Partially Compliant:

• APSU 1993 Year Group
• APSU 2001 Year Group
• APSU 1984 Year Group
• APSU 1996 Year Group

Exempt:

All other organs are kindly reminded to immediately settle their indebtedness to the Union’s Secretariat.

Invitation to the 95th College Anniversary & Speech Day

Under the distinguished patronage, the College Board and Management invite all APSUnians to the 95th College Anniversary & Speech Day, held on Saturday, 15th March 2025, at the College Quadrangle at 8:00 am.

Reminder of APSU Annual Congress

Members are reminded that the 2025 APSU Congress will be held on Friday, 14th March 2025, at the College Assembly Hall of St. Augustine’s College at 7:00 PM prompt. All APSUnians worldwide are kindly requested to take note and be present to help transact the business of Congress.

Join the Celebration – Be a Part of APSU History!

The APSU 95th Anniversary is more than just an event; it is a testament to our resilience, unity, and dedication to excellence. Whether you are a proud old boy (APSUnian), a current student (Augustinian), a teacher, or a supporter of St. Augustine’s College (Augusco), this is your moment to connect, give back, and celebrate.

Mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to relive the Augusco experience like never before!

Omnia Vincit Labor – Perseverance Conquers All!

APSU…Action Nkotsee!!!

The chairman of the advisory board of the Africa Governance Centre Mr Jeff Radebe has tipped the African Political Parties Initiative as having the potential to  boost capacity building and promote meaningful interactions among political parties on the African Continent. 

Addressing the launch of the African Political Parties Initiative which was held in Accra on Friday March 7, 2025, Mr Radebe noted that the Initiative was  geared towards breaking up the ideological silos, deep mistrust, and knowledge gaps that have kept African political parties apart and undermined cross-party consensus for the betterment of our citizenry.

Mr Radebe intimated that amidst the multiple onslaughts of the current geopolitical turmoil, increasing economic marginalization of youth and women, and the failure of governments to grapple with the full consequences of the planetary crisis induced by climate change, Africa stands on the precipice and can provide the world a refreshing lens to escape from this deep impasse and find imaginative ways of securing meaningful inclusive growth through broader coalition beyond what a single political party has to offer. 

He cited the example of South Africa, where political parties that have historically and ideologically opposed each other, were brought together I its last elections to form a government of national unity. 

He described Africa’s problems as  national, regional, and continental imperatives that demand collective solutions, hence the need for inter-party cooperation. Mr Radebe admonished that cooperation must beyond rhetoric, translate into institutional frameworks that enable political actors to work together on matters of national interest.

Also participating in the event, was the International Conference of African Political Parties (ICAAP) headquartered in the Republic of Korea, led by Secretary- General Kwon Hee-Sog. 

Mr Hee-Sog addressing the esteemed gathering throug an official communication, congratulated the Africa Governance Centre for birthing the vision to launch the African Political Parties Summit, stressing that the objectives and principles of the International Conference of African Political Parties did closely align with those of the Africa Governance Centre. 

He noted that the ICAAP has over the last few years, advanced their work beyond Asia, and stretching into other continents like Africa, Europe and Latin America. 

He noted, I believe that this initiative will undoubtedly lead to vibrant and democratic political activism, contributing to the promotion of democracy and good governance, sustained peace and shared prosperity across the continent.

Other dignitaries present at the event included The President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E John Dramani Mahama, the Vice President, Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, The Prime Minister of Sao Tome and Principe, H.E Americo Ramos, the National Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah and members of the Diplomatic Corps. 

The African Political Parties Summit is set to be held in July this year and is tipped to be the largest convocation of political parties on the continent of Africa.

The Africa Governance Centre is a policy, advocacy, and research think tank dedicated to strengthening governance systems across Africa and are the conveners of the Initiative. 

The African Political Parties Initiative is a flagship program of the Africa Governance Centre (AGC) aimed at strengthening democratic governance, political leadership, and party systems across the African  continent. 

Although the paramount event of the Initiative is the annual Africa Political Parties Summit which is slated for July this year, it also boasts of other governance-focused activities and events such as the Youth in Politics Forum, Women Political Leadership Summit, Political Leadership Academy, Political Parties Governance Index, and the Diaspora Political Parties Exchange.

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Dr Ishmael Yamson is Chairman of the National Economic Dialogue

The Chairman of the National Economic Dialogue, Dr. Ishmael Yamson, has called for the restoration of licenses to banks affected by the banking sector clean-up exercise if investigations reveal that the revocations were unwarranted.

Speaking in an interview on Hot Issues on Sunday, March 8, 2025, Dr. Yamson urged the government to establish an independent body to review the Bank of Ghana’s justification for closing the banks.

He noted that if the investigations conclude that the clean-up was “callous and reckless,” the affected banks should have their licenses reinstated to resume operations.

Reflecting on the financial sector clean-up, Dr. Yamson argued that instead of shutting down the banks, the government could have taken alternative measures, such as replacing management with competent leaders and punishing those found guilty of financial mismanagement.

He suggested that at the time, the government had various options, including requiring bank leaders responsible for liquidity challenges to relinquish their shares, rather than opting for closure.

Calling for an independent review of the decisions that led to the closures, he emphasised the need for a more careful approach to addressing the issue.

President John Mahama has also criticised the former leadership of the Bank of Ghana for the manner in which the banking sector clean-up was conducted.

The exercise led to the closure of several financial institutions.

During the swearing-in ceremony of the new Governor and Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 President Mahama expressed concern that the decisions made under the banking sector reforms had severe consequences for individuals and families.

The president has pledged to restore the licenses of banks that he believes were unjustly revoked.

SP/MA