The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) Composite Index gained 105.82 points to close at 6,776.09 on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, driven by active trading in MTN Ghana shares.

Total market turnover reached GH¢12.08 million across 3.88 million traded shares.

MTN Ghana (MTNGH) dominated trading volume, with 3.44 million shares changing hands at GH¢3.35 per share a 3.1% daily increase.

The transaction contributed GH¢11.52 million to total market value. SIC Insurance Company (SIC) declined 4.5% to GH¢1.05 amid active selling, while Standard Chartered Bank Ghana (SCB) held steady at GH¢28.00.

The Alternative Market (GAX) recorded no trades. Market capitalization rose to GH¢143.46 billion, extending the year-to-date index gain to 0.39%.

By Jibril Abdul Mumuni

Accra, July 30, GNA- The Christian Council of Ghana has urged rival factions in the Bawku conflict to embrace dialogue, uphold the sanctity of human life, as they resolve their differences peacefully.

In a press statement copied to the Ghana News Agency and signed by Reverend Dr. Cyril Fayose, General Secretary of the Council, the Council noted its particular concern regarding the devastating impact of the conflict on churches and mission establishments in Bawku.

The Council highlighted that Bawku is home to numerous Christian congregations and mission facilities, many of which have suffered damages and the suspension of their activities.

These institutions, according to the Council, have long contributed to peacebuilding and social development in the region, and their safety and continuity are essential for the well-being of all residents.

The statement further called on local opinion leaders, religious groups, civil society organisations, women’s groups, and youth groups, all of whom play crucial roles in mediation and reconciliation, to intensify their efforts towards lasting peace.

The Council urged the security agencies stationed in Bawku to carry out their duties with utmost professionalism, impartiality, and restraint.

“Security personnel must avoid any actions that may inflame tensions or alienate the local population. The foremost responsibility is to protect the citizens, including vulnerable groups and places of worship, without discrimination or intimidation,” the Council stated.

Declaring its solidarity with all peacebuilding stakeholders, the Council called for a non-violent resolution to the conflict.

It also urged the government to implement inclusive and sustainable peace initiatives that meaningfully engage all relevant parties.

Additionally, the Council called on pastors and church members across the nation to commit to fervent prayer for peace, healing, and divine guidance for all those working towards reconciliation in Bawku.

The Council noted that continued instability in Bawku did not only endangered lives but also undermined social cohesion and development in the Upper East Region and beyond.

“Restoring peace is a shared responsibility, one that requires the collective effort of traditional leaders, ethnic communities, religious institutions, security agencies, and government authorities,” the statement said.
GNA

Edited by Samuel Osei-Frempong

By Philip Tengzu

Wa, (UW/R), July 30, GNA – The Rotary Club of Wa has held its ninth handing over and tenth anniversary to celebrate the successes chalked in impacting the lives of people in the region and beyond within the ten years of its existence.

Rotarians in Ghana and beyond including the Assistant Governor (AG) of the Rotary District 9104, Rotractors and friends of the Rotary Club participated in the event, which was held in Wa.

The Club chronicled the interventions it executed within the period in partnership with other Rotary Clubs, Rotary Foundation and individual donors under the 2024/2025 Rotary theme of “The Magic of Rotary”, which had impacted the lives of many people.

The projects included the Jirapa water expansion project, the Bole school Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), the Eremon Senior High Technical School computer and WASH projects, the Sabuli and Karni health projects, and six boreholes for communities under the GhanaWASH project, among others.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Zakarea Al-Hassan Balure, the Immediate Past President of the Rotary Club of Wa, expressed gratitude for the partnerships they had received over the years, which had helped them to execute many impactful projects.

He said the Club, under his leadership, executed six projects including the WASH project at Bole Senior High School and renovation of the classrooms at the Korabaso primary School and donation of USD 2,500.00 worth of equipment to the Karni Health Centre among others.

He added that through his leadership and with the support of Club members, the Rotaract Club of Wa would soon receive its charter presentation to operate under the Rotary International.

He encouraged continuous commitment of the members to enable the Club to achieve its set goals for the ensuing Rotary year, while assuring his unwavering commitment to the course of the Club.

Mr Jonathan Kwofie, the President of the Rotary Club of Wa, called for unity among the members in respect of the 2025/2026 theme of “Unite for Good” to harness their collective synergies in impacting lives in society.

“From this year’s theme, we are encouraged as Rotarians to foster unity among ourselves and the communities, we work with.

“Cohesion brings a sense of belongingness, making individuals feel connected and supported.

We can only tremendously achieve and impact the world with a shared purpose and common goal as Rotarians”, he explained.

Mr Kwofie announced that the Club had planned to establish electronic libraries in the Dr. Hilla Limann Technical University and three Senior High Schools in the region, carry out prostate and cervical cancer screenings in Wa, and refurbish the Wa SHS Laboratory and equip it with modern equipment within the next year.

The Club is also set to construct an ultra-modern kitchen for the Wa Methodist School for the Blind as its 10 year anniversary legacy project with support from other Rotary Clubs and individuals.

The Rotary International operates on seven focus areas – peace and conflict prevention/resolution; disease prevention and treatment; water and sanitation; maternal and child health; basic education and literacy; economic and community development, and environmental protection.

GNA

Edited by Caesar Abagali/ Christian Akorlie

By Edward Dankwah

Accra, July 30, GNA – The German Development Cooperation, in collaboration with the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhlE), Robert Bosch Ghana and Consolidated Bank Ghana Limited, has officially launched the Professionalisation of Artisans (ProfArts) mobile application in Accra.

The mobile application is designed to expand employment opportunities for local artisans working in Ghana’s building and construction industry by connecting them directly with customers in a secure and practical way.

The ProfArts mobile application offers a range of features including secure profiles for artisans and clients, a search function by location and type of service, and real-time messaging for service discussions.

The mobile application also has booking tools with calendar synchronisation, integrated payment options, and a rating system for both artisans and customers to strengthen trust, transparency and service quality across the sector.

Ms. Chantel Kristin Lahmer, on behalf of the German Ambassador to Ghana, said the ProfArts project was initiated five years ago under the Special Initiative Decent Work for a Just Transition, operating under the Invest for Jobs brand, an initiative of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

She said the project was implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH in close cooperation with GhIE, Robert Bosch Ghana, Consolidated Bank Ghana Limited, UVEX Safety Germany and other supporting partners.

Ms. Lahmer said the ProfArts application builds on existing achievements by helping artisans secure fairer working conditions, expand their customer base and deliver professional services that meet industry standards.

She said their commitment to harnessing digital tools to strengthen local economies, create employment opportunities, and promote inclusive and sustainable development across Ghana remained strong.

Mr. George Opare Addo, the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, said the Government sees a lot of potential in the construction sector, and welcomed every single effort and initiative to ensure the opportunities within the industry were properly explored.

He said it was for this reason that the Ministry supported the ProfArts project as a contribution towards promoting the formalisation of the informal sector, and welcomed the introduction of the ProfArts mobile application to specifically serve the construction sector.

“The initiative promises to increase the attractiveness of the sector to the youth, by helping them not only gain employment but to do that in a dignified way,” he stressed.

He said the ProfArts project and mobile application was poised to revolutionise Ghana’s construction industry by demystifying the erroneous notion that construction work lacked professional dignity while unlocking new avenues for the many skilled youth within the industry.

Mr. Opare Addo said the ProfArts application came at a time when the National Apprenticeship programme had been introduced to train and equip young people with hands-on skills across several industries, which included the construction sector.

He encouraged both artisans and consumers to capitalise this revolutionary initiative, urging the artisans to get onto the App for more opportunities and reach.

Consumers, he said, should utilise the App for safe, quality service and promote the professionalisation and decent jobs for all agenda.

Mr. Samuel Magnus Asiedu, the Executive Director of GhIE, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to improving skills, trust and market access for artisans.

He acknowledged the role of the ProfArts project in onboarding craftsmen onto the GhIE register, in line with legal requirements and welcomed the next phase of collaboration with GIZ,

which would focus on further capacity building, licensing and onboarding new artisans onto the mobile application.

GNA

Edited by Benjamin Mensah

The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has called on the government to immediately arrest and interdict the National Security operatives involved in the recent assault and detention of JoyNews journalist, Carlos Carlony.

Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News on Wednesday, July 30, he welcomed the government’s statement condemning the act but described it as inadequate, insisting that mere condemnation without swift action is not enough.

“We expect the government, even though we welcome their condemnation, to immediately interdict and arrest the security officers involved and begin investigations. If, after investigations, they are not guilty, then they can be released. But what is the meaning of just issuing a directive for investigations while we sit back and watch?” he queried.

Mr. Dwumfour further indicated that the GJA would be addressing the media and the public on Thursday, July 31, to officially state its position on what he called the rising and alarming rate of attacks on journalists in Ghana.

The demand follows disturbing revelations by JoyNews reporter Carlos Carlony, who recounted being assaulted and forcefully detained by National Security operatives. The incident occurred while he was covering a demolition exercise at a warehouse reportedly owned by prominent businessman Daniel McKorley, popularly known as McDan.

According to Carlony, the soldiers initially questioned why he and his team were filming the exercise. Despite informing them that they were journalists reporting on the event, one of the officers allegedly assaulted him from behind just as he was preparing to go on air.

He was then bundled into a vehicle along with McDan and three others and transported to the National Security Headquarters.

In response to public outrage, the government issued a statement condemning the assault. Presidential Spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, described the actions of the soldier involved as “utterly unacceptable.”

However, the GJA maintains that the government’s response has fallen short of expectations and insists on concrete steps to hold the officers accountable. The association says failure to take decisive action could embolden further attacks and undermine press freedom.

The players and technical team of Asante Kotoko have presented the latest trophies won by the team to the club’s Life Patron and owner, His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

The Porcupine Warriors have this month won two trophies and are currently feeling confident ahead of the 2025/26 football season.

The Reds, earlier this month, defeated rivals Hearts of Oak to claim the 2025 President’s Cup.

Just last Saturday, the team also defeated South African outfit Kaizer Chiefs, emerging as champions of the 2025 Toyota Cup.

Today, the Asante Kotoko team, including the players and the technical team, visited Manhyia Palace, where the two trophies were presented to His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

The team also used the opportunity to present to Otumfuo the new home jersey designed by kit sponsor the Hope Brand for the 2025/2026 season.

Our warriors presented the Presidents Cup and the Toyota Cup trophies to His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at the Manhyia Palace this afternoon.

Our King was also presented with his customized @thehopebrand_ Kotoko home Kit for the 2025/2026 season. #AKSC #Fabucensus… pic.twitter.com/eal0VBfXGm

— Asante Kotoko SC – 2X CAF CL Winners🥇 (@AsanteKotoko_SC) July 30, 2025

Ahead of the upcoming football season, Asante Kotoko will be hoping to win more trophies to honour His Royal Majesty.

In that campaign, the team will compete in the Ghana Premier League, MTN FA Cup, and the CAF Confederation Cup.

By Anthony Adongo Apubeo

Bongo (U/E), July 30, GNA – A peacebuilding and governance initiative is yielding positive results, empowering local communities, fostering social cohesion, and deepening trust and local governance in parts of the Upper East Region.

As a result of the project, some community members and local representatives in the Garu, Bongo, and Bawku West Districts have reported renewed trust in local authorities, improved citizen engagement, and strengthened social ties.

The project, “Enhancing social cohesion and social contract through the empowerment of women and youth in three Northern Regions of Ghana,” is jointly implemented by the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), RISE-Ghana, CARO, and SIMBA Ghana.

It is funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Through a series of innovative, community-driven interventions, the project is addressing the root causes of local conflicts and vulnerabilities to violent extremism.

The project employs strategic communication via radio and social media campaigns, town hall engagements, youth parliaments, and a mentorship programme, among other approaches, to build trust and increase citizen participation in governance.

“Before the project, it was difficult to bring constituents together or explain our limitations as Assembly Members. Now, thanks to the radio programmes, people understand our roles better and are reaching out to engage us. It has brought clarity and opened communication lines,” said Mr Elvis Nyaaba, the Assembly Member for Bongo-Feo in the Bongo District.

Citizens also welcomed the town hall sessions, saying they had brought technocrats from various district departments directly to rural communities and created opportunities for residents to interact with authorities.

“Considering the far location of the district assembly, there was no way our community could get an opportunity to listen to the various departments there. Seeing them all here and having the opportunity to ask them about their work and critique it makes us feel involved as citizens. The organizers must be commended,” said Madam Amina Abugre, a resident of Kupela in Bawku West.

The project has also revitalised civic structures such as youth parliaments. In the Garu District, a Youth Parliament was inaugurated for the first time, giving young people a formal platform to engage in local governance and mobilise for peace across political and ethnic divides.

In addition, a mentorship programme pairing youth and women with experienced leaders from politics, local government, civil society, and the business community has begun breaking down barriers to participation and leadership.

“Some people who wanted to aspire to become Assembly Members were discouraged by the constant demands placed on them. But after joining the mentorship programme, this project has shed more light on our local governance, and we are now ready to support our local governance machinery to function,” said Madam Sakina Adam, a youth mentee from Denugu in the Garu District.

GNA

Edited by Caesar Abagali/Christian Akorlie

By Kamal Ahmed

Somanya(E/R), June 30, GNA – Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, Eastern Regional Minister, has brokered a temporary truce with youth groups in the Krobo area following the suspension of a planned protest over the deteriorating condition of the Somanya-Kpong road.

The demonstration, initially scheduled to pressure authorities into addressing the long-neglected road, was called off after a high-level meeting between the Minister and leaders of the advocacy groups Kloma Gbi and Kloma Hengme.

Also present were Municipal Chief Executives (MCEs) from Yilo and Lower Manya Krobo, and district security officials.

Speaking to the media after the meeting held on Monday, Mrs. Awatey said the government had issued fresh directives to ensure the stalled project resumes promptly.

“We’ve agreed with the youth groups to hold off on the protest,” she said. “President John Dramani Mahama has instructed contractors to return to abandoned project sites, and the Somanya-Kpong road is a priority.”

As part of interim measures, the MCEs have been directed to water the road twice weekly until work resumes in October.

The Minister also pledged to involve youth representatives in further engagements with sector ministers to promote transparency and accountability.

Despite the suspension, some residents expressed scepticism, citing past delays and broken promises. “This road is a hazard. Someone nearly died last week because of a pothole,” Mr. Samuel Kwesi Emahi, a resident stated. “We feel like our voices are being dismissed once again.”

Dr. Eric Lawer Sikatse, Secretary of Kloma Hengme, clarified that the protest was not cancelled, but only suspended pending action within a two-month window.

“This is a gesture of good faith,” he said. “If by October we see no results, the protest will go ahead. We are not politicising the issue; we are demanding accountability.”

He noted that the decision was also influenced by appeals from traditional leaders and assurances provided by the Minister.

Still, tensions linger in the Krobo communities, with some youth accusing local leaders of caving in to political pressure. Others have threatened to organise independent demonstrations should the government fail to act.

The Somanya-Kpong road serves as a key route for commuters, traders, and farmers. Its current state riddled with potholes and crumbling edges, continues to endanger lives and hamper economic activity.

While the Minister’s assurances have offered a temporary pause in planned protests, residents remain watchful. For many, real assurance will only come with visible progress on the ground.

GNA

Edited by D.I. Laary/Christian Akorlie

By Kingsley Mamore

Dambai (O/R), July 30, GNA- The Oti Region is in mourning following the passing of legendary musician, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba and requested that he should be given a state burial. 

Residents of Dambai, the regional capital, expressed their grief to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), describing Lumba’s music as a profound part of their lives. 

According to the residents, Lumba’s approach to music was distinct, singing not to his audience but through them. 

“His voice served as a bridge between confession and catharsis, resonating deeply with listeners who found solace in his lyrics,” a mourner said. 

The residents praised Lumba’s mastery of paradox, which rendered him timeless; they said he embodied contradiction and conveyed the depth of someone who had witnessed life’s complexities. 

Mr. Noah Gyamesi, a resident, said Lumba’s music was the backbone of many people’s experiences, particularly those who grew up in the 1990s and 2000s.  

He emphasised that Lumba’s lyrics accompanied them through heartbreak, family conflicts, first loves and private contradictions. 

The youth at ” Yehowa Ne Mabankese”, a welding and fabrication shop in Dambai, in an interview with GNA described Lumba’s music as a source of inspiration and comfort. 

Twenty of them shared how Lumba’s songs had helped them through various challenges. In addition, they credited his songs with providing solace and motivation, helping them navigate life’s ups and downs. 

Mr. Richard Dunugbe, prayed that God would grant Daddy Lumba eternal life, despite his passing. 

GNA 

Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah 

The Disability and Social Development Advocacy Africa (DaSDA Africa), also known as Positive Impact, has urged the government to make deliberate provisions for persons with disabilities and ratify the African Disability Protocol, a human rights treaty aimed at addressing discrimination against people with disabilities across Africa.

The call was made during the launch of a 12-month advocacy project promoting the African Disability Protocol and the rights and freedoms of women with disabilities.

The event took place on Tuesday, July 29, at Anyinam in the Atiwa East District of the Eastern Region.

The project, titled “Advocacy and Sensitisation Exercise to Promote the African Disability Protocol: The Rights and Freedoms of Women with Disability,” is being spearheaded by DaSDA Africa in collaboration with Rev. Perpetual Essel-Cobbah, Minister in Charge of the Methodist Church, Anyinam.
Speaking at the launch, Isaach Kwaku Wadi, Executive Director of DaSDA Africa, explained that the initiative is funded by ADD International through the Disability Justice Fund for Women (DJFW).

He said the project seeks to empower individuals with disabilities through advocacy, inclusion, and social development, aiming to build a more accessible and equitable Africa for all.

“We are advocating for the African disability protocol to be ratified, because the Disability Act 715 does not incorporate or cover all aspects of disability-related issues. The African disability protocol rather provides a wider framework that includes a lot of disability issues, “he said.
Also addressing the gathering, Inspector Eunice Amuzu from the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) highlighted the Ghana Police Service’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities.

She said the launch of the advocacy project reaffirms the Service’s dedication to protecting all citizens, including persons living with disabilities (PWDs).

In line with the National Persons with Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715), and Ghana’s ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), the Police Service is working to ensure that persons with disabilities receive equitable treatment, legal protection, and access to justice.

This includes integrating disability studies into law enforcement training curricula, promoting dignified treatment of persons with disabilities, and ensuring police services are accessible to all.

In a related development, DaSDA Africa also unveiled an official theme song for the project, titled “We Rise.” The song calls on all stakeholders to support the cause of disability advocacy and stand in solidarity with persons with disabilities.

The launch event drew participation from key stakeholders, including departmental heads of the Atiwa East District Assembly, religious and traditional leaders, and members of the Ghana Society of Physically Disabled (GSPD) within the district.

The YAFO Institute has called on Parliament to deepen the decentralisation focus of the Ghana Scholarships Authority Bill by giving local educators, particularly head teachers, a stronger role in identifying and supporting needy but brilliant students.

In a statement, the policy and research think tank commended Parliament for considering the bill, which seeks to overhaul the management and disbursement of government scholarships across the country.

The bill is currently under review by the Joint Committee on Education, Public Administration, and State Interests and Civil Society Organizations.

According to the Institute, while the bill represents a critical step towards transparency and merit-based scholarship allocation, it must go further in empowering communities to take part in the process.

“We believe that education is the foundation for sustainable development,” the statement read. “Bringing the process closer to the communities, especially through head teachers who are familiar with students’ realities, will ensure the scholarships truly benefit the most deserving.”

The Ghana Scholarships Authority Bill proposes a centralized board that includes representatives from key ministries, the Attorney General’s office, the Association of Ghana Industries, and presidential nominees.

It also emphasizes focus areas like STEM and aligns scholarship awards with national development priorities through coordination with the National Development Planning Commission.

But the YAFO Institute believes the lack of grassroots representation on the board is a gap that could limit the impact of the bill.

“Head teachers, particularly at the basic level, know which students are academically capable but held back by financial challenges. Including them in the decision-making process will bridge the gap between policy and reality,” the Institute said.

To this end, the YAFO Institute has proposed the creation of a nomination system where head teachers in both public and private basic schools are formally involved in identifying qualified students.

This would allow teachers to recommend students who demonstrate academic excellence but face economic hardship, ensuring no talent is overlooked due to location or lack of access to information.

The Institute is also advocating for training programs to help head teachers understand scholarship criteria, navigate online application systems, and effectively engage in the selection process. In rural areas, this may include providing digital tools and internet access to help bridge the technology gap and ensure their participation.

To promote fairness and reduce potential abuse, YAFO is recommending the formation of district-level verification committees. These would consist of head teachers, education officers, and respected community leaders who work together to screen scholarship nominations and confirm eligibility. This structure would also allow for a feedback mechanism to improve the system over time.

The Institute believes it is equally important to recognize the efforts of educators who identify deserving students. Schools and teachers that consistently produce successful scholarship recipients could benefit from professional development opportunities, public recognition, or educational resources that support their efforts.

The institute also emphasized the need for strong public awareness, especially at the basic school level. They propose using school assemblies, radio, and community forums to educate students, teachers, and parents about scholarship opportunities and the application process.

In addition, the Institute suggests aligning scholarships with both STEM and vocational pathways. This, they believe, will create more opportunities for students who show potential in technical and hands-on fields, not just traditional academic areas.

Local industries and technical institutions could also play a role by providing mentorship and career exposure to scholarship recipients.

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, who presented the bill to Parliament, has stated that the legislation is intended to eliminate political patronage, nepotism, and corruption in the scholarship process. YAFO’s recommendations support that goal by anchoring the system in community knowledge and firsthand experience.

The Institute stressed that these proposals align with Ghana’s Shared Growth and Development Agenda and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal Four, which calls for inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

As Parliament continues to examine the Ghana Scholarships Authority Bill, YAFO is urging lawmakers to include stronger provisions for grassroots involvement. They are also calling on the Ministry of Education and the Scholarships Authority to pilot this model in selected regions before implementing it nationwide.

The Institute expressed readiness to work with government, policymakers, the Ghana Education Service, civil society organizations, and private school associations to shape a truly inclusive and impactful scholarship framework.

“The Ghana Scholarships Authority Bill has the power to transform access to education. But for it to truly serve its purpose, it must include the voices of those who see and nurture potential every day—our head teachers,” the statement concluded.

YAFO remains committed to removing the financial barriers that keep thousands of talented young Ghanaians from accessing the education they deserve and contributing meaningfully to national development.

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.

By Kodjo Adams 

Accra, July 30, GNA – Dr Monica Obeng-Koranteng, a multidisciplinary educationist, has admonished Ghanaian students to be innovative with the knowledge acquired to help address societal problems. 

“In the modern era, intelligence is no longer solely about knowledge but about applying those skills creatively to solve complex problems and drive innovations,” she said. 

Dr Koranteng gave the advice at the maiden Accra Technical University (ATU) Career Job Fair, in partnership with the African Centre for Career Enhancement and Skills Support. 

It is on the theme: “Fostering Employability and Skills Development through Industry-Academia Collaboration.” 

The fair brought together ATU students and selected senior high and technical schools in the Greater Accra Region, where students interacted with industry players for career development. 

Dr Koranteng said job security was not about holding a position in an organisation but exploring new areas of interest to expand their scope. 

“A career path is not linear but characterised by twists and turns. It is imperative to see challenges as opportunities and growth,” she urged the students. 

She encouraged them to develop a range of skills like critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration to be relevant in the world of work. 

She said entrepreneurship was a mindset, an attitude, a set of skills, and a process that enhanced personal and organisational effectiveness, profitability, and growth, which had benefits to navigate in the current emerging world. 

“You need personal skills like artificial intelligence adaptability and time management to fit into the contemporary market economy,” she said, and urged them to be more deliberate in searching for career jobs. 

Professor Felix Kutsanedzie, the Acting Pro-Vice-Chancellor, ATU, said the fair would help the workforce and students to interact for mutual benefits. 

That, he said, was important because the employer needed a competent person to optimise profit and solve problems. 

“The cost of making a mistake in a company can collapse the business; hence, the interaction between industry and academia addresses these challenges,” he said. 

Mr Seth Allotey, the Dean of Students at ATU, expressed optimism that the fair would open doors for internship, mentorship, and job opportunities for the students. 

“Career success is not only about getting jobs but also about being passionate about the opportunities,” he said. 

“Being passionate means, you do the job well and effectively to ensure optimal success.” 

GNA 

Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe 

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that his government will build a new public technical university in the Western Region to expand access to technical and vocational education for young people.

In a speech at the Jubilee House during a courtesy call by the Paramount Chief of the Essikado Traditional Area, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, and other members of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, President Mahama said the new university forms part of a broader plan to prepare the region’s youth for emerging job opportunities in mining, oil and gas, agribusiness, and digital industries.

He explained that the technical university will be designed to meet the practical needs of industries in the region and across the country.

According to him, this move is crucial to Ghana’s long-term development goals, especially as the Western Region continues to contribute significantly to the national economy through natural resources.

“The Western Region holds immense potential to lead Ghana into a new era of industrialization and job creation. But we must equip our young people with the right skills. That is why we are building a new public technical university here” the President intimated.

He added that this new institution will work alongside other youth-focused programs, including a region-wide employment initiative focused on agri-tech, tourism, green jobs, and digital entrepreneurship.

President Mahama revealed plans to upgrade the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital into a modern teaching hospital that will serve as a referral center for the Western and Western North regions.

This, he said, would improve healthcare delivery and provide training grounds for medical students.

He assured the chiefs that these initiatives would help bridge development gaps and ensure that the youth in the region have better access to education, training, and jobs.

The President urged the chiefs to support these efforts by promoting peace, unity, and development in their communities.

By Jibril Abdul Mumuni 

Accra, July 30, GNA– The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced stricter measures against Banks, Dedicated Electronic Money Issuers (DEMIs), Enhanced Payment Service Providers (EPSPs), and Money Transfer Operators (MTOs).  

This comes as part of the ongoing fight against non-compliance with inward remittance guidelines. 

In a notice signed by Ms. Sandra Thompson, Secretary at the central bank, the bank observed persistent violations of the Foreign Exchange Act, 2006, and the Updated Guidelines for Inward Remittance Services by Payment Service Providers, despite previous cautions. 

The BoG has observed continued infractions, which include the termination of inward remittances using unapproved channels, engagement in Foreign Exchange Swaps within the context of Inward Remittance Business. 

Other violations, according to the central bank, included the termination of remittances on behalf of institutions without prior approval from the Bank of Ghana and the application of unprescribed Forex Exchange rates. 

The Bank of Ghana has emphasized its commitment to sanctioning any violating institution and terminating the remittance partnerships of all MTOs whose operations were not in compliance with the approved guidelines. 

To ensure strict adherence, the BoG has reiterated that the funding of the Local Settlement Account should be strictly done in accordance with section 7.1 (c) of the Updated Guidelines for Inward Remittance Services by Payment Service Providers. 

The central bank also instructed that all disbursements shall be from the Local Settlement Account as stated in section 7.2 (a) of the Updated Guidelines for Inward Remittance Services by Payment Service Providers.  

It also said DEMIs/EPSPs should also ensure that pre-funding arrangements with the Settlement Bank shall be done in accordance with section 7.2 (b) of the Updated Guidelines for Inward Remittance Services by Payment Service Providers. 

In the bid to ensure transparency and accountability in the foreign exchange and remittance ecosystem, all Banks, DEMIs, and EPSPs are now expressly directed to submit weekly reports per MTO.  

These comprehensive reports must detail daily individual inward remittance transactions logs, along with the corresponding daily sum of foreign exchange credited into respective Nostro accounts. 

The Bank of Ghana stressed that failure to submit accurate and timely reports constituted a regulatory breach under Section 42 of the Payment Systems and Services Act (Act 987) and Section 93(3) (d) of Act 930, and will attract the appropriate administrative sanctions. 

GNA 

Christian Akorlie