Home Blog Page 23

Ghana must deliberately invest in science to accelerate development – Prof. Akazili

0

The Dean of the School of Public Health at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS), Prof. James Akazili, has called for deliberate investment in science, technology and innovation, arguing that Ghana cannot achieve sustained development without committing resources to these areas.

Prof. Akazili said countries that have recorded significant development have consciously invested in science and innovation to improve productivity, develop solutions to local challenges and drive economic growth.

“If you look at countries that have development, they deliberately embark on science and innovation. A country’s development falls back heavily on its conscious investment in science and its related courses to improve growth,” he said.

Speaking on A1 Radio on the topic, “The Future of Science and Technology Education in the Upper East Region: The Role of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences,” Prof. Akazili said Ghana must move beyond discussions about the importance of science and commit resources to developing the necessary skills, institutions and innovations.

He said universities have an important role in equipping young people with scientific and technological skills that can be applied to challenges confronting their communities and the wider economy.

Prof. Akazili also called for greater attention to science and technology education in the Upper East Region, arguing that deliberate investment could help develop young innovators capable of producing solutions relevant to the region and the country.

He said strengthening science education, research and innovation would also provide opportunities for universities such as UTAS to contribute more directly to Ghana’s development.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga

Gurene set to become examinable at 2027 BECE

0

Gurene is expected to be examined at the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) for the first time in 2027, following a directive for the language to be included among subjects available for candidates to register.

The Upper East Regional Education Directorate has consequently directed Municipal and District Directors of Education to prepare schools for the teaching and examination of the language.

In a letter dated September 7, 2026, Upper East Regional Director of Education Razak Abdul-Korah said the Director of Schools and Instructions had, in an earlier letter dated January 29, 2026, tasked the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to include Gurene among subjects available for BECE registration.

“There is every indication” that candidates sitting the 2027 BECE will constitute the first cohort to be examined in Gurene, according to the Regional Education Directorate.

Municipal and District Education Directors have therefore been directed to incorporate Gurene into school timetables, rationalise and deploy appropriate teachers and take other steps necessary for its implementation.

The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has also developed curriculum and teaching and learning materials to support the teaching of Gurene at different levels of education.

The latest development addresses a longstanding concern among Gurene-speaking communities over the inability of students to write the language in national examinations despite its teaching and development over the years.

Earlier in 2026, BONABOTO called for Gurene to be made an examinable subject, arguing that although the language had received recognition from the Ghana Education Service, its examination had not been operationalised.

The September 7 directive requires education authorities in the Upper East Region to prepare schools for the implementation of Gurene and ensure they are adequately prepared for its teaching and examination.

The letter was also copied to the President of the Gurene Language Development Association (GULDA).

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bolgatanga

Upper East’s Gifty Apana Atogbase crowned world female Oware champion

0

Gifty Apana Atogbase, an Oware player based in the Yorogo community in the Upper East Region, has been crowned World Female Oware Champion after representing Ghana at the VI World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan.

Ms Atogbase represented Oware Society Ghana at the international competition, which brought together competitors in traditional sports and games from countries around the world.

The VI World Nomad Games were held from August 31 to September 6, 2026, with the opening ceremony in Bishkek and the main competitions held in the Issyk-Kul region.

Oware, listed as “Owari” at the Games, was among the traditional board games featured at the competition.

Ms Atogbase officially received her crown in September following her performance at the Games.

Her achievement gives Ghana a world title in the female Oware competition and puts the spotlight on a traditional strategy game that has long been played in Ghana and other parts of Africa.

Ms Atogbase competed under the banner of Oware Society Ghana, which represented the country and showcased the traditional game at the international event.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bolgatanga | Bolgatanga

Alfred Nyaaba Akuresoh declares bid for Bongo NDC Youth Organiser

0

Alfred Nyaaba Akuresoh, popularly known as Akuureyaaba, has declared his intention to contest the Youth Organiser position of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Bongo Constituency when nominations open.

Mr Akuresoh says his campaign will focus on youth empowerment, skills development, employment opportunities and strengthening grassroots mobilisation within the party.

His campaign is being run under the theme, “Youth Leadership, A Stronger Bongo,” with a focus on increasing the participation of young people in the party and the development of the constituency.

According to Mr Akuresoh, he became an active member of the NDC in 2012 and has since participated in party activities at the branch and constituency levels.

He said he previously served as Chairman of the Ayopia Primary School A Branch from May 2026 until September 14, 2026.

Mr Akuresoh said his experience includes mobilising young people to participate in party programmes and contributing to campaign activities at the branch level.

He said he would seek to unite, organise and mobilise young members of the party while strengthening the NDC’s grassroots structures if given the mandate.

Mr Akuresoh is appealing to delegates and other party stakeholders for support ahead of the constituency executive contest.

His campaign also carries the message, “A Stronger Bongo Built by Our Youth.”

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bolgatanga

Multiple taxes, regulatory charges hurting hotel businesses – Upper East hoteliers

0

The Upper East Regional Chairman of the Hoteliers Association, Simon Aluzeele, has warned that multiple taxes, levies and penalty charges imposed on hotels by regulatory agencies are putting pressure on businesses and threatening their sustainability.

Mr Aluzeele, who is also Manager of Tap Hotel, has consequently called on the government and the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) to develop a harmonised framework for charges imposed on businesses in the hospitality sector.

“Our members across the various regions continue to grapple with the overwhelming multiplicity of taxes, levies and penalty charges imposed by agencies including the EPA, FDA, the Fire Service, the Municipal Assemblies and a host of other regulatory bodies,” he said.

Mr Aluzeele was speaking at the Ghana Tourism Authority’s 2026 Upper East Regional Tourism Awards held at Akayet Hotel in Bolgatanga.

He said the cumulative cost of the charges is affecting the profitability of hotels and could discourage investment in the hospitality sector.

“This multiplicity does not only erode profitability; it discourages us and undermines our competitiveness within the destination in the southern regions,” he stated.

Mr Aluzeele called on the government and the GTA, which regulates the tourism industry, to initiate discussions towards harmonising the various charges imposed on hospitality businesses.

“Our theme is about crossing borders. We respectfully renew our appeal to government and the Ghana Tourism Authority, our principal regulator, to initiate a harmonised framework that will keep us in business,” he said.

He argued that reducing the regulatory and financial burden on hotels would help businesses remain operational and strengthen their contribution to employment and the local economy.

The 2026 Upper East Regional Tourism Awards brought together hoteliers, tourism operators, government officials and other industry stakeholders to recognise individuals and institutions in the sector.

The event was held under the theme, “Celebrating Excellence Beyond Borders: The Black Star Experience.”

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Joseph Napoleon Anaaya | Bolgatanga

A1 Radio named Tourism-Oriented Media Organisation of the Year in Upper East

0

A1 Radio has been named Tourism-Oriented Media Organisation of the Year in the Upper East Region by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).

The Bolgatanga-based station, a subsidiary of Agreed Best Communication Company, received the Tourism-Oriented Media (Radio) of the Year award at the GTA’s 2026 Upper East Regional Tourism Awards held in Bolgatanga.

The GTA recognised the station for its coverage and promotion of tourism, cultural heritage and hospitality in the region.

“The Ghana Tourism Authority recognizes A1 Radio for its outstanding and sustained contribution to tourism promotion and advocacy in the region. Through dedicated programs, interviews, and features, you have consistently provided a strong platform for creating awareness of the region’s tourist attractions, cultural heritage, and hospitality opportunities,” the citation accompanying the award stated.

The Authority also highlighted the role of the media in promoting local tourism and its potential contribution to economic development.

“You have demonstrated that the media can be a powerful partner in creating opportunities, preserving culture, promoting local destinations, and stimulating economic development,” the citation added.

“The Ghana Tourism Authority is proud to confer on you TOURISM-ORIENTED MEDIA (RADIO) OF THE YEAR,” it concluded.

The 2026 awards were held under the theme, “Celebrating Excellence Beyond Borders: The Black Star Experience.”

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | David Azure | Bolgatanga

Music is a spiritual gift, not just about recording songs – Dennis Azeriya

0

Upper East Region gospel musician Dennis Azeriya says music is a spiritual gift that must come from within an artiste if it is to make a meaningful impact on listeners.

Speaking on Bolga FM’s Tooma La Dengo Sanga, Mr Azeriya said music goes beyond recording and releasing songs, stressing the importance of genuine inspiration and a spiritual connection to the craft.

According to him, without that spiritual foundation, musicians risk producing songs that may not have the desired impact on their audiences.

He therefore encouraged musicians, particularly gospel artistes, to recognise the purpose and responsibility that come with their talents and use their music to positively influence listeners.

Mr Azeriya also advised young and upcoming musicians not to make money their primary motivation when beginning their careers.

He encouraged them to remain focused on developing their craft and committed to the purpose behind their music.

Mr Azeriya made the comments while discussing his musical journey and the role of gospel music in society.

He also appealed to his fans and supporters to continue supporting his work as he prepares to release more songs.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bolgatanga

Musicians must be good role models for young people – Joseph Apole Akaguri

0

Upper East Region gospel musician Joseph Apole Akaguri has urged musicians to be mindful of their conduct, saying young people who admire them may imitate their behaviour and lifestyles.

He said musicians should recognise the influence they have over their audiences and demonstrate good character both on and off stage.

Speaking on Bolga FM’s Tooma La Dengo Sanga, Mr Akaguri said musicians should pay particular attention to their dressing, speech and general conduct in public.

According to him, young people interested in pursuing music often look up to established artistes and may adopt aspects of their lifestyles.

He therefore urged musicians to use their influence to set positive examples for their fans and aspiring artistes.

Mr Akaguri also called on gospel musicians to concentrate on using their music to preach the Gospel, encourage listeners and promote positive values.

He said gospel musicians should avoid using their songs to insult, mock or tease other people, arguing that gospel music should instead carry messages capable of inspiring listeners.

Mr Akaguri encouraged musicians to recognise the responsibility that comes with having a public platform and use their influence to positively impact their audiences.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bolgatanga

Bongo MP supports Ganlagrum school project with 100 bags of cement

0

The Member of Parliament for Bongo, Lawyer Charles Bawa-Dua, has donated 100 bags of cement to the Ganlagrum community in the Bongo-Balungu area to support the construction of additional classroom facilities.

Within three days of receiving the cement, residents moulded all 100 bags into blocks as their contribution towards the project, as the community pushes for improved educational infrastructure for its growing number of schoolchildren.

Residents have also secured and documented a piece of land for the construction of a new primary school to ease pressure on the existing classroom facilities.

The intervention follows concerns raised by residents and local representatives about inadequate classroom space and its impact on teaching and learning in the community.

Speaking during a visit to Ganlagrum, Lawyer Bawa-Dua said the intervention was intended to support the expansion of educational infrastructure and provide a better learning environment for children in the community.

The residents, however, used the MP’s visit to draw attention to other development challenges confronting the community, including a deteriorating dam and poor road access.

Youth leader Albert Aniah said the community’s dam requires urgent rehabilitation to enable it to store sufficient water for livestock and domestic activities.

He appealed to the relevant authorities to intervene before the condition of the dam deteriorates further.

Mr Aniah also raised concerns about the road connecting Ganlagrum to the main road, saying its poor condition makes transportation difficult and affects residents’ access to essential services.

He said the challenge becomes particularly serious during emergencies, including when pregnant women have to be transported from the community to health facilities for delivery.

Mr Aniah therefore appealed for the rehabilitation of the dam and improvement of the road while calling for continued support to address the community’s educational needs.

Responding to the concerns, Lawyer Bawa-Dua urged residents to exercise patience and said he would work with the Bongo District Assembly to explore ways of addressing the challenges.

A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bongo

Bongo MP assures Awukabisi, Namoo Sikabiisi of completion of electricity projects

0

The Member of Parliament for Bongo, Lawyer Charles Bawa-Dua, has assured residents of Awukabisi and Namoo Sikabiisi that efforts are underway to complete electricity projects in the two communities and connect residents to power.

The assurances were given during separate visits to the communities, where residents raised concerns about electricity projects that are yet to result in connections to their homes and essential facilities.

At Awukabisi, Youth Leader Wisdom Aduko raised the issue when the MP visited the Bongo-Soe Vincent Akurigo Memorial R/C Primary School to hand over a KG block whose roof had been ripped off.

Mr Aduko said the electricity project was initiated during the previous NPP administration when Peter Ayinbisa Ayamga was Bongo District Chief Executive, but residents are yet to benefit from power.

He said electricity would support businesses and other daily activities in the community while providing students with the opportunity to study at night.

Responding, Lawyer Bawa-Dua said efforts had already been made towards completing the project, including the provision of electricity meters.

According to him, the remaining challenge is securing some materials required by the contractor, including a transformer and other equipment needed to complete and power the project.

The MP recalled promising residents during the 2024 election campaign that he would work towards completing the electricity project if elected.

Assembly Member for the Awukabisi Electoral Area, Apangaboya Ateo Aboga, said electricity remains a major need for the area and that he had repeatedly engaged the MP over the project.

At Namoo Sikabiisi, residents raised similar concerns about their electricity project and sought clarity on when the community would be connected.

Lawyer Bawa-Dua assured them that efforts were being made to extend electricity to the various sub-communities in the area and urged residents to exercise patience.

He said the Bongo District has several development needs and that interventions have to be prioritised while efforts are made to spread development across communities.

Community member Joe Akariboga Adongo said some residents did not fully understand the work being undertaken by the contractor, a situation he said had contributed to misunderstandings over the project.

He said completing the electricity project was particularly important because the Namoo Sikabiisi CHPS compound and school need power to support healthcare delivery and teaching and learning.

Another resident, Joseph Aniah, expressed appreciation to the MP for engaging the community and said residents were looking forward to the completion of the project.

Residents of both communities are now awaiting the completion and powering of the electricity projects.

A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bongo

1...222324...2,029Page 23 of 2,029