Is Marriage The Ultimate In Contemporary Africa?

Mashud Zakaria

---

“The overall African philosophy is that life and the reproduction of life sit at the core of human society. Men and women have children who ritualise their parents and ancestors”-Molefi Asante

My long uneventful weekend was rudely interrupted by a friend’s devastation over his parent’s marriage ultimatum served on him. He is to marry, by September, the woman betrothed to him. He is simply not ready for marriage and can’t understand why it should be such a burden. 

This scenario got me wondering whether marriage need be the ultimate in Africa. Of course, on a socio-cultural level, it might seem obligatory, but on an individual basis, the picture may just look different.

Centuries ago, marriage was and still is key in one’s transition from childhood to adulthood. It is one of the rites that could never be overlooked, especially after puberty. So among the Krobos, an ethnic group in Ghana, a woman was ready for marriage right after successfully going through the initiation rites.

Marriage is a very important institution within the traditional African context. Not only does it unite couples, but it also brings together entire families and communities. Beyond that, it signifies maturity and ushers the couple into a state of responsibility, especially when baby making is the greater expectation of the marriage. That is why marriage was so common in the past and even in recent times. Forced marriages are also rampant and even characteristic of certain rural communities in Africa. Marriage was and still is a big deal in Africa. That is why my friend’s case comes to me as no surprise.

It is a taboo in Africa for a mature woman of childbearing age to remain unmarried, especially when in her 30s. And President Jacob Zuma’s comment that he “wouldn’t want to stay with daughters who are not getting married,” perhaps, sums up the Continent’s disgust for singleness. “I know that people today think being single is nice. It's actually not right,’’ Zuma stressed.

But I often ask if marriage is meant for everyone. Is everyone supposed to get married? And why won’t families and society just let people be? 

In my opinion, marriage mustn’t be compulsory, nor must it be all there is to life. It is, a choice for those who meet the criteria for it. Marriage entails a lot and not everyone qualifies for it. Not everyone will get married and not everyone is eligible for marriage. 

Sometime in 2005, former Ghana Television News Anchor, Gifty Anti, had an interview with the Catholic Archbishop of Accra, Charles Palmer-Buckle, about marriage in Christianity. In the interview, the Archbishop noted that marriage is an institution from God; it is a blessing, but it isn’t compulsory.

The idea that one necessarily needs to get married in life may be an ancient notion, but it still lingers even today. So some women, forced by socio-cultural pressures, find their way into marriages, which never last. 

Though the old perception that one must at all cost get married at some point and have children still holds sway, I dare say its stranglehold on society isn’t as potent as before. These days quite a number of people, mature women especially, prefer making babies as single mothers to marrying. Though childbearing is generally highly encouraged in Africa, it isn’t pacifying enough to have children outside marriage, given the reverence for, and vitality of marriage within on the Continent. While the woman gets mocked for mothering a bastard, the child may yet have his own share of the scorn from his peers. While some women simply don’t care about the societal backlash and are easily able to shrug it off, others with not-so-tough skins may flounder in justifying their social deviancy while bearing the cultural brunt of such waywardness. 

The cultural edict that marriage is the ultimate, is stifling. It is unnerving sometimes when your parents, for example, keep hinting at the need for you to get married, even when you don’t feel ready for it. I really got angry when my mother gave me such hints when I was 23-years-old. But my case is way better than my big sister’s. At 31, the pressure being brought on her to get married is unbearable. Sadly, she appears to be succumbing to the insufferable socio-cultural pressures that have conspired with her desperation to beat her biological clock. As a result, she’s been railroaded into the arms of a man I consider as a very irresponsible person who is by no means deserving of her. 

You see, social pressures force people into marriages that may torment them for years. Besides, not everyone can withstand the odds of marriage. Infidelity, childlessness, pressure from in-laws and other demands may push some people over the cliff. Those who overlook these odds, end up annulling their marriages in a few months. But of course, some are able to stomach all the hardship that come with getting married. They accommodate abuse, infidelity, and childlessness in their bid to please society. But for how long can they keep up appearances?

A married woman once told me that a major challenge in her marriage had to do with a clash of expectations. The feeling of marriage at the initial stage was delightful for her. She thought it was just a way of satisfying social and family expectations and so hurriedly got married, despite the obvious incompatibility with the man. And now conflicts, disappointments and obstacles are the lot of the marriage. She now feels it is better being single than married. 

Then again, there is a constant conflict between an individual’s readiness for marriage and society’s timing and demand for it. There is a rift between the individual’s plans and society’s readiness to accept the conditions of the individual – a situation often overlooked by the same people who clamour to see their sons and daughters married. 

Marriage is often cited as a solution to sexual immorality. But who says married couples don’t go frolicking outside their matrimonial homes. 

Sometime in 2008, my father forced a poor uncle of mine to get married simply because he was ageing. My uncle argued he wasn’t financially sound to look after a family at the time. My father promised to support my uncle financially. Sadly, my Dad reneged his promise when it mattered most. The marriage broke down because, despite his scrounging to supplement his measly 2 cedi per hour minimum wage, my uncle couldn’t keep his family afloat. 

Beyond psychological and physiological readiness, money is key in making every marriage work. Society will hypocritically brand you as irresponsible if you marry and aren’t able to cater for your family. And that’s exactly what happened to my uncle.

I don’t want to be part of this social charade. Yes, I would want to get married someday, but society won’t dictate the pace for me. And I believe strongly that just as nature doesn’t allow every man or woman to be a father or mother, not everyone can be a wife or husband. Society must allow people to have a choice whether to marry or to stay single. 

http://www.infoboxdaily.com/index.php/component/k2/item/1170-is-marriage-the-ultimate-in-contemporary-africa

VOLUNTEERS GHANA, URGENT NOTICE : FIRST DEPARTURE

Arrangements have been finalised for the first batch of 100 volunteers to be deployed to the Central Gonja Constituency in the Northern Region of Ghana to teach and mentor pupils in the deprived communities there.

DURATION - 4 WEEKS

DEPARTURE : JUNE 1st 2014. TIME 4PM

CONVERGING POINTS- SRC UNION BUILDING , U.G
AND ROYAL PARADE GROUND, KNUST
Transportation, Accomodation and Feeding for the 4 weeks will be provided for all volunteers.
CONTACTS
ACCRA - 0240299367 , 0544362526 , 0249307716
KUMASI - 0246732538

We are still registering interested Volunteers so please call any of the numbers above if you want to be a part of this wonderful experience. Let us give hope to the Hopeless,Inspire Confidence and help build a bright future for these children.

We are also pleading with all Kind Hearted people to donate (Kind, Cash etc) towards this course. Thanks.

VOLUNTEERS GHANA-Touching Lives, Transforming Societies through Volunteerism.


Eric Edem Kobby

ONE MAN THOUSAND : The Tiny Fish That Feeds A Village

A HEART TOUCHING MARRIAGE STORY

A WIFE’S UNFAILING LOVE FOR HER HUSBAND

I, Sarah Adams take you, Lawson Kuti as my lawful wedded husband, to love and to cherish, in

Sickness and in health, till death do us part She smiled at him through her veil.

‘You may now kiss your bride Mr. Lawson’ The Pastor beckoned.

Lawson’s heart raced as he gently unveiled his bride’s face. She looked so beautiful. He gently bent over and placed a soft kiss on her lips. Sarah in turn embraced him tightly with tears of joy streaming down her face.

‘Never leave me Sarah’ He whispered in her ear. ‘I will never leave you’ she whispered and they slowly released themselves from the embrace.

‘I present to you the latest couple!’ The Pastor exclaimed excitedly The church cheered and Sarah cried more in her husband’s arms

5 YEARS LATER

Sarah silently tip toed behind her husband. He was in his study, engrossed in reading. She smiled to herself and gently covered his eyes with both hands. ‘It’s just you and I in this house Sara, plus, I smelled you the moment you walked in’ He dropped

Sara released her hold, sighed and sat on the study table, ‘Why do you figure me out so easily’ I can’t even surprise you! That sucks? She curled her arms around his neck ‘You are my wife, nothing you do is supposed to surprise me’ He playfully pecked her nose.

‘But you’ve been in the study all day and I’m bored!? She rolled her eyes ‘So what kind of fun do you suggest we have then?’ He swooped her off the table in his arms ‘No! Not that kind of fun!’ She hit him playfully till he put her down ‘Ok’, He folded his arms on his chest, looking into her eyes, ‘So what do you want us to do?’

‘Not us. Actually, all I want is to play with your play station and you’ve hidden it again! Just give it to me and you can continue your reading, pleaaaseee’ She blinked her eyes playfully

‘No way’, He went back toward his study chair and sat, ‘Not my play station?

‘Why! You never let me touch it’ like it’s your baby’ She sulked ‘Well’, he rolled his eyes, ‘Not like you’ve given me a baby yet’

Sara paused for a moment. Did he just say that to her? The words struck her deep down

‘You shouldn’t have said that Lawson’ She managed to say, her countenance changing.

‘But its true’ I’m only saying the truth Sara’ He turned to face her, still sitting on the chair.

‘The truth’ you think I don’t want us to have kids?’

‘Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that?? He stood to face her now.

‘Then what are you saying Lawson’ Tell me, what is the truth??

‘Let’s not do this today’ please. You can have the play station and play all you want. It’s in my footwear locker and the key is in my Bible’

‘You always do this’ hurting me with your words’ Her voice began to shake

‘Don’t start Sara please’

‘Tell me why you said those words to me! I want to know!’

‘Because I’m tired! I want to be a father! I want to have my own kids Sara’ ‘and you think I don’t? Sara flared, trying not to let the tears pour

‘Then why can’t you get pregnant Sara’ This is the fifth year we are trying.’ He clenched his teeth and walked out of the study room.

Sara was in shock. She sat on the chair for some seconds, stood up again and sat on the chair again this time she held on to her blouse and burst into tears.

2WEEKS AFTER

‘Lawson, wake up please’ Sara tapped him

Lawson gently opened his eyes and looked at the alarm clock by his bedside, It’s 2:00am Sara

‘It’s urgent’

‘I’m listening’ He said drowsily

‘Mother says we should come for tests. She says she’s spoken to her doctor and he said we should come.’

‘What?’ Lawson opened his eyes now, ‘Your mother is in the UK for Christ’s sakes’

‘Let’s just do it. We can go for the weekend, let’s just give it a shot, please.’

‘No. That would be rather expensive and’

‘It’s my birthday today and the only thing I want from you is this trip’

Lawson fell quiet now. For the past two years now, his wife’s birthday skips his mind totally.

‘I’m sorry Sara’ It skipped my mind’

‘It always does’ She lay down back on the bed, backing him.

Lawson wrapped his arms around her waist, ‘I said I’m sorry’

No response.

Lawson sighed, ‘Fine, we go this weekend’

‘Really?’ She turned sharply, excited

‘If it will make you happy today’

‘Thank you baby’ she hugged him.

A WEEK AFTER

Sara jerked at the vibration of the phone in her pocket.

‘Hi mom!’ she pressed the phone to her ear with her shoulders, wiping the washed dishes with her hands.

‘Honey?’

‘What is it mom?’ she pressed it harder

‘The result’ the result of the tests?

Her mother cried

Sarah gently dropped the plate and the wiper, hear racing ‘Just say it mom’

That night

‘I can never have children Lawson’ Sara cried

Lawson felt his world crash right in front of him, ‘what?’

‘Mama called today’ she’s gotten the tests results’

‘Jesus Christ’ Lawson stood, placing his palm on his head, ‘but you told me you were ok before we got married, you told me the doctor said your abortion didn’t damage your womb’

‘Don’t bring my past into this!’ Sara flared

Lawson laughed and got serious almost immediately, you are crazy. I married a crazy woman!’

Sara looked at him in shock, like he’d lost his mind.

‘The results say you can never have children and we both know that this has to do with the abortion you had before we met!’, he flared, ‘are you happy?’ you know we’re screwed right? No kids? What are we going to tell the world?’

?Lawson we can adopt?? Sara cried

‘Adopt’ Wow!’, he laughed again, ‘I married a funny woman too!’ He got serious again, ‘Its still not our baby! The damn baby is not my flesh and blood! You are full of deceit Sara’ He looked into her eyes. Sara could see him fighting his tears.

‘Lawson stop’ you are hurting me?’ Sara fell on her knees crying

‘You want to know what I’m thinking?’ Lawson looked at her with disgust, ‘I’m thinking how on earth I’m going to stand seeing your deceitful face for the rest of my life?

‘Sara cried harder, ‘Don’t give up Lawson’ So far I have a womb’ I can still carry our baby’

‘I am not giving up on having my baby, I’m giving up on you’ Lawson turned around to leave

‘Lawson!’ She held his feet, ‘I’m hurting too’

He only dragged his feet from her hold and drove out of the house. She wept.

A MONTH LATER

‘Mother, he’s not even talking to me. All of a sudden we are both strangers’ He doesn’t eat my food, comes home late’ he hates me so much and it’s killing me. I’m confused’ to think that it’s truly hurting’

‘For how long will you hide this truth from him. You’ve got to let him know’ you can’t carry his’.....

There was the sound of a car horn

‘Mom I’ve got to go’ he’s back’

‘Baby, you’ve got to let him know. It can work when you two are one in mind’

‘Bye mom’ she ended the call.

Lawson came into the house, about to walk past her.

‘Lawson’ She held him

‘I’m tired’ He didn’t want to look at her face

‘I know’ can we talk for some minutes?’ She tried to help him remove his suit

‘Look what is it’ He jerked from her

‘Do you hate me this much? you can’t even look me in the eye? you can’t even stand my sight? Lawson? it’s me Sara’ Your best friend’ Her eyes grew moist

‘I’m in no mood for this’ He turned around to walk away

‘Don’t you dare leave when I’m talking to you!’ She dragged him by the suit. Just then, some papers fell to the floor. Sara quickly bent to pick them up, her hands shook and her body became numb all over.

‘Divorce papers? Lawson?’ She searched his eyes

‘Answer me goddammit!’ She held him by the collar of his shirt, crying

‘They are for you to sign. I want to be out’ Lawson dropped

‘You what?’ she slowly freed him from her hold

‘It’s not going to work Sara, can’t you see?’

‘Lawson I can’t believe you would think of a divorce and even go this far’ why are you so wicked!?

She cried, angry

‘No! Why are you so wicked!? He retorted, flaring Think about me for once. I am a man for Christ’s sakes. My children are my pride! and you are about to deny me that for the rest of my life because of your stupid mistake!?’

‘What about me! have you stopped for once to think about what I’m going through? It’s your cross, carry it’ Lawson fixed his angry eyes on his wife

‘No, its now our cross and I am not signing those divorce papers! We vowed never to leave each other!’

‘Isn’t it better Sara that you save yourself more hurt and sign these papers than to see another woman move into this house before your very eyes?’ he said with a tone of sarcasm

Sara’s heart thumped, ‘What?’

‘You heard me’ another woman who can help raise a family, so save yourself the stress and sign the damn papers. I need it tomorrow’ He turned around to leave again She still can’t carry your baby’ Sara dropped

‘Not all women had abortions. Not every woman was like you.’ He scorned ‘You are the one who can’t give me a child!’ Sara let out, crying.

Lawson stopped now, turned around and walked towards her, ‘Whatever your plan is won’t work’ ‘I told you I could never have a child because it’s you who can’t make me pregnant’

‘Shut up! shut up Sara! What the hell are you saying!? He shook her shoulders violently

‘You are infertile Lawson’ The doctor says you have primary infertility’ Sara burst into tears Lawson gasped, loosing his balance.

‘Mother called me to give me the news. I was shattered, I felt like my world was over but more importantly I thought of you. I thought of what the news could do to you, I thought of the best way to tell you’ never for once did i think of leaving you. I bore your insults, your scorn, because of my past. It was so easy to judge me and think of yourself. I am the one who is hurting, I am the one who should bring some miserable divorce papers’ but I thought of you’ I thought of hope, faith and a miracle ‘I thought of my vow to you on that altar. In sickness and in health remember?’

She smiled through her tears,

‘All of a sudden you are as weak as a baby’ looking in your eyes, I can see you suddenly have lost all your guards, You are so wicked?

‘Sara?’ Lawson fell on his knees

‘No!’ She quickly fell on her knees too, ‘No Lawson’ She couldn’t bear to see him cry

‘I’m infertile?, he cried, ‘What is left of me?’ he searched his wife’s eyes

‘Lawson please?’she held his face, ‘I understand’ it has been so hard for me’ I have put myself in your shoes since the first day’

‘You don’t deserve this’ you deserve better ‘I can’t believe I scorned you all along’ please let me leave you’

‘No’ she shook her head, ‘You are my husband. I won’t leave you. I won’t let you leave me ‘I believe in miracles’

‘I’m doomed’ Sara I’m doomed’ He allowed his wife take him in her arms and on her shoulder he wept like a child.

In the Morning

Sara gently opened her eyes, looking beside her bed, it was empty. She quickly sat up on seeing a note gently placed on the bed. Hands shaking, she opened the letter to read.

Sara,

I cannot bear the shame. I have treated you so unfairly, yet you love me still, you are with me even in this condition of mine. To think that you knew all along and you never for once gave me a clue that it is my fault we are in this mess, makes me so unworthy of you. I love you enough to let you build another life with a man who can make you happier. I’m torn Sara and all I ask is your forgiveness. I have always loved you and if you truly love me then please start your life over again without me .I am truly sorry for disappointing you.

Lawson.

Sara couldn’t control the tears. She couldn’t think straight anymore. She picked her cell phone, shaking

‘Hi Mr. Lawson’s office please’

‘Hi Lola’ she cried, ‘have you seen my husband today?’

‘No’ ma’am, we’ve been expecting him at work. He has a presentation in fifteen minutes’

‘Oh God’ Sara dipped her hand in her full hair

‘Everything ok ma’am?’

‘Thank you’ she ended the call.

She quickly got down from the bed and in her pyjamas she ran into her car. She dialled his number repeatedly as she drove no answer.

At 2:00pm

She sped into Fred’s compound, a close friend to her husband.

‘Fred!’ she banged the door hastily till the door flung open

‘My God Sara what’s wrong?’ Fred held her

‘It’s Lawson’ have you seen him? is he here?’

‘No Haven’t heard from him in a week’

‘Oh God’ she held her hair

‘What’s wrong?’

But she was already walking away into her car.

‘Sara!’ He called after her.

She zoomed away.

4:30pm

‘Mom, Dad, I can’t find Lawson I can’t find your son’ she cried as she paced in front of the two who looked lost

‘You have to calm down and tell us what happened’ Lawson’s mother put her arms around Sara.

Sara burst into tears, ‘Please Dad could you try his number, maybe he’d pick your call?’

‘Have you been to his office?’ He picked his cellphone and dialed his son’s number

‘I have been everywhere I know him to be likely available’

‘It’s ok’ calm down please’ Lawson’s mother pet her

‘He’s not picking. What exactly went wrong between you two?’ Lawson’s father searched Sara’s eyes

9:00pm

Sara was still in her pyjamas and on her way back home, exhausted and stuck in the traffic. She had told Lawson’s parents everything. The poor couple was so shattered and also begging her to begin a new life. Sara buried her head on the steering, crying; she hadn’t realized the green light.

‘Hey get off the freaking road!’ a driver cursed from behind her

‘God please don’t let him harm himself’ keep him safe and lead me to him’ please God’ she quickly started the car and began to move.

Suddenly she remembered the church where they wedded and took their vows. It was two hours from here; she made a u-turn and headed for the church hoping to find some peace. She tiredly got down from the car, drenched and exhausted. She trudged into the open entrance of the church. She paused for a moment; shocked it was Lawson sitting at the front row of the empty church, facing the altar.

‘Lawson!’ She began to run towards him, happy, relieved that he was ok.

‘Sara?’ He quickly stood as she approached him, ‘Sara?’

They both ran into each other’s arms. He hugged her so tightly

‘I looked for you everywhere’. this was the last place I thought you’d ever be’ I just came and I saw you’ Lawson. I’m so happy you are ok’ she touched his face

‘I didn’t know where else to go’ It just feels like I can’t face the world anymore’ he slowly released her from his embrace.

‘Take my hand’ Sara stretched out her hand, come-on, just take it’

Lawson gently clasped his hand into hers and she took him to the altar and stood to face him. She searched his eyes so deeply and hadn’t seen him so weak and helpless.

‘Five years ago Lawson, we both stood on this altar. Remember our vows? Remember you whispered in my ear never to leave you. I told you I wouldn’t that’s why I’m here. I am your wife

Lawson, I am meant to be with you forever, though the bad and good times. We’ve had good times, why would I leave you now? All I want from you is to believe that you can still give me a child despite what the result said, I want you to believe in a miracle, she held his face, ‘remember when you told me I was a miracle in your life?’ our children will be our miracles too. Trust God with me because I know it won’t be long’

‘Who are you Sara?’ Lawson was weak with her words

‘The one who vowed to be with you till the end’ she smiled through her thin tears

‘God I love you so much Sara’ He hugged her again

‘So will you come back home with me?’ Sara searched his eyes

‘I have no other place to call home’ He placed a soft kiss on her lips.

2 years after

Lawson and Sara were on the sofa watching a late night movie. Sara was resting on his shoulders when she felt the movement

‘Lawson Lawson, it moved again’ don’t miss it this time touch’ she gently placed his palm on the side of the stomach. Both felt the movement of their child

‘I can feel him’ I can feel him’ Lawson placed his head on her belly

‘I can feel him growing each day inside of me’

‘What do you think its saying now by this movement?’

‘Thank you dada for believing in me’ she laughed. They both laughed ‘The movement has stopped’ he slowly removed his head from her stomach, ‘I think he’s sleeping’.

Sara rested on his shoulders again, In six months you’d be a father, ‘You finally got your miracle’

Lawson tilted his wife’s face to him, looking into her eyes, ‘Sara’ you were the miracle I needed.

Thank you for not leaving me.

Sara tickled his nose with hers, ‘I love you too. Always will’, she smiled, ‘We missed a whole lot on our movie’

‘Movie can wait, but this can’t He gently planted a kiss on her belly.



HI FRIENDS,

First, we forget our vows so easily, so quickly that once our marriages start hitting the rocks, we fail to realize that there is power in union. When there is union, every mountain can be subdued.

The problem is people don’t yet understand the concept of marriage and trust me, until you do, please don’t go to the alter because what you don’t understand will eventually become a burden and confuse you. The concept of marriage is ‘for better, for worse’. The ‘worse’ moments always come. I am not saying expect bad things but I’m saying that challenges come in marriage to make you stronger in oneness so don’t use it against yourselves.

Second, miracles are real and I hope we all learn to have the patience to have our miracles in the end. Remember that marriage is a ‘stick and stay’ relationship not a ‘hit and run’ thing.

Remember your vows each day, enjoy your marriage, you deserve it!





From: www.rhodiesworld.com

ALMA MATER GAMES 2014

All roads lead to EL-WAK SPORTS STADIUM - 7th and 8th June, 2014

Over 50 OLD STUDENTS ASSOCIATIONS

RE-LIVE your 'INTERCO' days through FUN GAMES (football, volleyball, basketball, 100/200M race, 4*100 relay race) with up to GHC20,000 CASH and PRODUCT PRIZES for winning schools

Pure unadulterated JAMA, BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT NETWORKING,
FAMILY WEEKEND-OUT,
LUCKY DRAWS,
OMOTUO SPECIAL/BUBRA & PALM-WINE CORNER & loads to eat & drink,
Music, FUN & more FUN...

I rep ST. THOMAS AQUINAS; which school will you represent?

Sammy Obeng 

NUGS PRESS STATEMENT: CONCERNS OF GHANAIAN STUDENTS

PRESS STATEMENT READ AND ISSUED BY THE NATIONAL UNION OF GHANA STUDENTS (NUGS), NATIONAL SECRETARIAT, ON CONCERNS OF GHANAIAN STUDENTS – DATED, MAY 22 2014 

You are all welcome to this press conference today 22nd May 2014. 

The leadership of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) on behalf of Ghanaian students both in Ghana and abroad wishes to use this opportunity to bring to the knowledge of the general public and draw the attention of the government to some worrying developments in the educational sector. It is our believe that if these developments are not checked and addressed immediately, we stand the risk of having our educational sector gradually collapsing and the immediate victims of such avoidable circumstance is the Ghanaian students. We are therefore using this platform to accordingly express our enormous dissatisfaction and dissolution at the way and manner the government is massaging these disturbing issues with particular reference to the lack of concern to the plight of students in Ghana 

It is factual that the Ghanaian media landscape of late has been overwhelmed with negative reportage about problems bedevilling the educational sector; which ranges from lack of basic teaching and learning materials like teachers’ notebooks, chalks, textbooks etc, to issues of industrial unrests in the educational sector, astronomical hikes in school fees among several others. 

It is also reflected in government’s failure to make do with its promise of building 50 SHS each year, converting polytechnics into technical universities as well as the construction of 10 new colleges of education in the country which were all stated in the Government’s 2012 manifesto presented to the Ghanaian student anywhere he had the opportunity to meet them. 

We are also not oblivious of the plight of our brothers and sisters who are schooling in the three regions of the north; precisely, at the second cycle institutions relative to government’s failure to release feeding grant and subventions to their school authorities that resulted in them staying at home while their counterparts in the south were in school learning.

In order to further establish our case of discontentment about the way and manner our issues are being handled by the relevant State institutions and hence the fact that the ordinary Ghanaian student is made worse off in the governance of this country, we wish to interrogate these issues under the following headings

THE AILING STATE OF THE GHANA EDUCATION TRUST FUND (GETFUND) 

The National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) has over the period observed with great disquiet the bemoaning state of the once vibrant Ghana Education Trust Fund (GetFund) which is now at the brink of collapse due to inadequate funding from the central government; even though there have always been budgetary allocations to the Fund. In fact, the current administrator of GetFund in the person of Mr. Sam Garbah has had cause to complain bitterly on the airwaves about government’s failure to ensure the prompt release of the huge arrears due his outfit resulting in the slow-but-sure-death of this hitherto viable state institution.

For instance, in the 2013, an amount of GHC 691 million was expected to be transferred to the fund. However, the Government of Ghana through the Ministry of Finance managed to release only GHC 133 million (representing just about 19% of the expected amount) to the GetFund. Only six (6) months’ allocations for last year have been released. 

This year, parliament has approved about GHC 739 million as allocation to the fund and GHC 97million has been collected for January and Ferbruary 2014. It is sad to note that not a pesewa or ‘kobo’ of these funds have been transferred to the GETFund. 

In total, there is an outstanding transfer of GHC 558 million. It is more disturbing to note that these are monies that have been paid by the tax payer to be transferred to the fund within 30days purposely towards the development of education in Ghana but the President Mahama led administration through the ministry of finance has deliberately refused to comply with the GETFund Act 581 (2000). 

All of these have led to serious setbacks in the development of education in Ghana. There have been several distress calls from students who are on GetFund scholarship abroad. They are now being threatened with imminent dismissals from their respect institutions due to non-payment of fees. 

Today, when you go to most of our educational institutions, you would realise that almost all GetFund projects have stalled completely; a development which has now compelled some school authorities to surcharge students as a desperate measure to raise funds for the completion of such projects

You ask yourself whether the government is really interested in sustaining the operations of this body, and the development of Education in general.

EDUCATION/ YOUTH/STUDENTS’ RELATED BOARDS

Another manifestation of President Mahama led government’s inertia and lack of commitment towards education and the youth could be seen in the President’s unwillingness to appoint substantive Boards for GetFund, Student Loan Trust Funds (SLTF) and the National Youth Authority (NYA). The term of office of all of these Boards ended in 2012. Interestingly, one can only but be fascinated by the alacrity with which the President reconstituted the Board of the Ghana Airport Authority when the mandate of the last Board expired in recent past. It actually took the president less than a week to do that, yet in the case of GetFund, we are talking about one and half years and it is still chaired by the chairman of the ruling NDC party Dr. Kwabena Adjei. Where is the political will towards education? 

We also condemn the posturing of the various Youth Organizers of the political parties. Instead of them seeking for the common good of the youth in Ghana, they have become so parochial in their activities and do not show any concern to the plight of the ordinary youth.

THE WITHDRAWAL OF NURSING AND TEACHER TRAINEE ALLOWANCES

One other cudgelling issue of concern to NUGS has to do with the government’s decision to infamously withdraw teacher trainee allowances against all odds; a policy that existed for well over four decades. As if that is not enough, the meagre allowances that were hitherto given to trainee nurses to cater for some of their needs have also not been forthcoming for the past two years. As we all know, the trainee allowances are essentially meant to serve as a motivator and a cushioning stimulus for trainees against the rising cost of education in the country so that the less privileged could also attain tertiary education. We really wonder whether the government is really concerned about the plight of the ordinary Ghanaian student. 

We condemn in no uncertain terms the cruel and unruly ordeal the MCE of Ashanti Mampong brought on the Trainee Nurses in Mampong. We demand an immediate removal of that MCE by His Excellency President Mahama. He is not a role model for our society.

THE WITHDRAWAL OF SUBSIDIES TO INSTITUTIONS

It is even more mindboggling to note that in the midst of all these challenges regarding the cost of education in the country, the ministry of Education and Ministry of Finance are seriously contemplating the withdrawal of all forms of subsidies and subventions to public tertiary institutions in the country especially the various public universities. They have started with utility bills and we have letters here to substantiate that. 

A move, that will only but succeed in exacerbating the already precarious woes of tertiary students who are undeniably overburdened with the exorbitant cost of tertiary education in the country. Paradoxically, all these are happening under the reign of a government that purports to be the embodiment of social democratic ideals here in Ghana.

The President and state officials enjoyed a lot of goodies during their days in school and as if that is not enough, they now enjoy free Vehicles, free fuel, free electricity, free water, free accommodation, free calls, free travels and the rest. Why do they want to deny us?

We urge all students across the nation to resist these moves with every pint of blood within us.

CORRUPTION AND ECONOMIC MISMANAGEMENTS

The National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) is highly petrified by the recent revelations about the incalculable state of corruption that has engulfed the Savannah Accelerated Development Authority (SADA), an otherwise laudable programme geared towards bridging the yawning developmental gap between the north and the south, which has however metamorphosed into an epitome of an unbridled corruption ever seen in the history of this country; No wonder SADA is now generally perceived as the most corrupt institution in the country. NUGS describes all the players who are destroying this wonderful SADA initiative as ENEMIES OF THE NORTH who in their words pretend to love the North but in their actions destroys every good thing meant for the North.

Aside SADA, mention can also be made of GYEEDA, SUBA, the Media Fund furore, Isofoton, Waterville, Construction Pioneers (CP) and the several corruption scandals that continue to overwhelm the country of late, where avenues are deliberately and clandestinely created for government functionaries and cronies to loot and share (to borrow the words of one Supreme Court judge) the resources of this country with impunity. Yet government tells us that there is no money for GetFund, the payment of capitation grant and caterers employed under the school feeding programme and cannot pay nursing and teacher trainee allowances as well as subsidise petroleum products among others. One can only but come to the conclusion that government is deliberately refusing to invest this much needed funds in our education. And we shall not accept this.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, we wish to once again state without any shred of equivocation and cynicism that the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) has been very patient with the government and indeed held on to the principles of diplomatic and constructive engagements with the state authorities in seeking amicable redress to our nagging concerns which have however proved futile. Accordingly, NUGS is giving His Excellency President Mahama and his government a two-week ultimatum to affirmatively respond to the following reliefs we are seeking, failure of which we shall advise ourselves to take the appropriate actions including series of sustained demonstrations and possible of court actions.

1) That the government should immediately release the arrears due GETfund to enable the authorities meet their budgetary obligations and the completion of their projects

2) That the government begins an urgent and a serious move in appointing a substantive Boards for Getfund, the Student Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) as well as the National Youth Authority (NYA), which are all agencies that have students as their major stakeholders 

3) That government reinstates nursing and teacher trainee allowances that have been scrapped by the government for no justifiable reason

4) That government should release the capitation grant to basic schools which has been in arrears for well over two terms, as well as the huge arrears due the caterers employed under the School Feeding Programme.

5) The government should rescind its decision to withdraw the subventions to the public institutions. 

6) That government initiates prosecutions against all the officials that were seriously indicted in the various corruption scandals including SADA, GYEEDA, SUBA, Isofoton, Waterville and the others. 

It is indeed our fervent optimism and anticipation that the government and the relevant stakeholders would reason with us relative to the relevant issues raised and accordingly act appropriately. With all alacrity and without hesitation, we are sorry to let the government know that Ghanaian students have now run out of patience and might soon be forced to unleash our vitriolic wrath and fury within the confines of the law so that our concerns would receive the appropriate attention and redress. THANK YOU!

Long live NUGS 

Long live students activism, 

Long live Mother Ghana

ALUTA CONTINUA!!! VICTORIA ASCERTA!!!

 Sammy Binfoh Dakwah                                        Ayilu Raymond Kwojori

 (NUGS) President (NUGS)                                    Press and Info Sec.

        0208499214                                                    0240383605 

................................. .................................

ISSUED BY THE REGISTRAR,GHANA SCHOOL OF LAW,ACCRA

1.It is announced for the information of the gen public particularly LLB graduates that the Ghana School of Law shall conduct entrance examination for applicants who wish to pursue the professional law course leading to enrolment as lawyers

10.The decision of management of the Ghana sch of Law in respect of the publication of the results of both the entrance exam and the interview shall be final and applicants shall be required to sign an undertaking on the registration form that they shall accept such decisions as final

a.bankers draft of gh 300.00(three hundred ghana cedis) made payable to the BOARD OF LEGAL EDUCATION. b.four(4) recently taken passport sized pictures of applicant. c.photocopies of llb certificate and all other relevant certificates such as high school certificates and testimonials

9.Applicants shall fill the registration forms,annex the ff documents, and submit to the registry:

8.Entrance exams registration forms shall be made available to the deans of all faculties of law public universities.applicants from private universities and overseas universities may obtain their registration forms form the registry at the ghana school of law(accra main campus)

a.all LLB graduates from faculty of law of public universities in Ghana,including KNUST,Kumasi,University of Ghana and GIMPA approved by the NAB and the GLC

4.The categories of applicants listed below are eligible to write the entrance exam:

5.After the exam a list of applicants who pass the entrance exam shall be published and successful applicants shall be required to attend an interview

2.The entrance examination shall take place on Fri. 25th July 2014 at the Ghana Sch of Law,Accra,Main Campus.Any change in vebue shall be communicated to applicants.The exam commences at 11:00am

6.Only those who will be successful at the interview and subject to availability of vacancy shall be offered admission to pursue the professional law course in october 2014

3.The exam is in 2 sections.Section A comprises 30 qtns (multiple choice), covering all the 7 basic courses required prior to admission to the Ghana School of Law. Section B will consist of three essay qtns,based on any 3 of the same 7 basic courses. Candidates are to answer any one of the 3 qtns

12.The deadline for the submission of registration forms is 12th July 2014



11.All registered applicants shall be given exam index numbers by the registrar.




Powered by Nana Kwadwo Asiedu Frimpong, NUGS General Secretary aspirant.

Student arrested for raping teacher-trainee

The Agona Swedru Division of the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service has arrested a 17 year–old form one student of the Nsaba Presbyterian Senior High School (SHS), for raping a 20-year old teacher-trainee at Agona Asafo.

Chief Superintendent Peter Abillah, Agona Swedru Divisional Crime Officer, who disclosed this to the Press at Swedru, said the student, Henry Nyakoh, went to the house of the victim at Agona Asafo at about 13 hours on Tuesday, to look for the younger sister of the victim.

According to the Crime Officer, Nyakoh did not see the girl but met the victim, who is a student of the College of Education.

Chief Superintendent Abilah said Nyakoh pounced on the teacher-trainee and started removing her pants.

The Crime Officer said Nyakoh destroyed the pants of the student and finally had sexual intercourse with her, despite her plea that she was in her menstrual period.

The Crime Officer said the victim reported the matter to the DOVVSU at Agona Swedru and Nyakoh was arrested while in school.

NATIONAL SERVICE WITH GHANA HOME LOANS CO. LIMITED FOR UG STUDENTS.

Ghana Home Loans, a mortgage lending company, is embarking on a recruitment drive to enrol outstanding students for national service and subsequent employment following a successful national service.

Applicants must be Level 400 students who fall within the First Class Honours and Upper Second Division, and must have pursued courses in the following faculties:
Faculty of Arts
Faculty of Law
Faculty of Social Sciences
University of Ghana Business School (UGBS)
Interested students who fall within the criteria may submit their CV in person to the Counselling and Placement Centre or via email to counsel@ug.edu.gh.
Assessments and interviews have been scheduled for Tuesday, 9th June, 2014 from 9.00am to 4.00pm at UGBS.
Do make a date with us.
Signed
ERIC EDEM AGBANA

SOMETHING YOU MIGHT HAVE NOT KNOWN And NEED TO KNOW !!

       Ants Problem:
       Ants hate Cucumbers.
       "KEEP the skin of
        Cucumbers near the
        Place where they are
        or at Ant Hole.  

       To Get Pure & Clean  Ice :
        "Boil Water first
        before placing in the
        Freezer"

        To make the Mirror Shine:
        "Clean with Sprite"

        To remove Chewing Gum from Clothes:
        "Keep the Cloth in
        the Freezer for One
        Hour"

       To Whiten White Clothes:
        "Soak White Clothes
        in hot water with a
        Slice of Lemon for 10
        Minutes"

       To give a Shine to your Hair:
        "Add one Teaspoon
        of Vinegar to Hair,
        then wash Hair"

        To get maximum Juice out of Lemons:
        "Soak Lemons in Hot
        Water for One Hour,
        and then juice them"

       To avoid smell of Cabbage while cooking:
       "Keep a piece of
        Bread on the
        Cabbage in the
        Vessel while cooking"

       To avoid Tears while cutting Onions:
        "Chew Gum"

       To boil Potatoes quickly:
        "Skin one Potato
        from one side only
        before boiling"

      To remove Ink from Clothes:
       "Put Toothpaste ??
       on the Ink Spots
       generously and let it
       dry completely, then
       wash"

      To skin Sweet Potatoes quickly :
       "Soak in Cold Water
        immediately after
        boiling"

      To get rid of Mice or Rats:
       "Sprinkle Black
       Pepper in places
       where you find Mice &
       Rats. They will run
       away"

    Take Water Before Bedtime..
       "About 90% of Heart
       Attacks occur Early in
       the Morning & it can
       be reduced if one
       takes a Glass or two
       of Water before going
       to bed at Night"

     We Know Water is
       important but never
       knew about the
       Special Times one
       has to drink it.. !!

       Did you  ???

    Drinking Water at the  Right Time
       Maximizes its
       effectiveness on the
       Human Body;

        1 Glass of Water
              after waking up -
             helps to
              activate internal
              organs..

         1 Glass of Water
              30 Minutes  ??
              before a Meal -
              helps digestion..

       1 Glass of Water
              before taking a
              Bath ?? - helps
              lower your blood
              pressure.

       1 Glass of Water
              before going to
              Bed - ? avoids
              Stroke  or Heart
              Attack.

 Chinese Proverb Says:
      'When someone
       shares something of
       value with you and
       you benefit from  it,
       You have a moral
       obligation to share it
       with others too.'

So..., DO your's !
I have done mine ?

THE BEACON OF HOPE FOR UDS, CENTRAL NUGS (NAVRONGO) 2014/2015 NUGS, kick starts the slippery road with a firm step.

McRoyal Enoch Mensah

In recent times, campus has been filled with political braggarts, making mouthwatering campaign promises, only to know that they are vague after they are elected into office. Its result is low turnout during elections just because of the fear of the disappointment attached to voting for these braggarts. 

One of the promises I ever wished to have witnessed was the provision of an electronic board in lecture halls promised by an aspirant some years back; only God knows when that will ever become a reality. 

This year’s elections just blew pass, and now elected students representatives are expected to fulfill their campaign promises, continue and also protect the good legacies left behind by their predecessors. While patriots of the elected executives are sanguine or optimistic about their candidates, the doomsayers or pessimist say “we shall all see what they can do”- “omo san be di ye sika” on which side are you? Well, I am everywhere because I couldn’t support all aspirants during the electioneering season.

My phone beeped at 6:30 a.m. yesterday (15th May 2014), with a message, “CARRIER SUMMIT FOR FINALIST” at 3 p.m. sharp, CENTRAL NUGS 2014/15 initiative. I asked, has there been any chlorination in the gene pools of the newly elected executives? Well!

This is the very first time executives have portrayed a sense of commitment to hard work by organizing a carrier summit even before the commencement of a new academic year. Participants included; some members of Graduate Students Association of Ghana (GRASAG), Teaching Assistants and the targeted final year students. While others will say they “just” did it in appreciation to the final year students, because they voted for them, I say it is a sign of embracing the “Walk the talk” movement. In fact, they are spiced for action. CENTRAL NUGS, what a gallant step, kudos!

The seminar highlighted on scholarship opportunities for post graduate programmes, electronic job application and also few tips on generating table of contents directly from MS Word 2010/13 and also how to correctly number projects with both roman numerals and numbers in a particular documents without having to divide the documents separately. 

You might be tempted to ridicule or under estimate the topics of discussion but I tell you, there was no better opportunity than this, because it met the needs of the participants. Akans say “ese wa ni”

The thought provoking presentations from Mr. Luu Ying (Lecturer, UDS), Master Peter Enimile Jnr., with McRoyal Enoch Mensah, Central NUGS President, chipping in tips reserved in his I.T. knowledge reservoir, led to applauses and cheers from participants because they were well-equipped and rehearsed resource persons. Tips, from the world of scholarship and online job application will not be left out because of absentees, a few are; scholarshippositions.com for scholarships and www.rileyguide.com/jobs.html , africajobsite.com for online job applications. 

It is worth noting that, the saying “African time does not exist in the world” was echoed severally hence I adjudged as the quote of the day.

The maiden summit facilitated by the NUGS President, McRoyal Enoch Mensah, NUGS Secretary, Osman Adamu for and on behalf of NUGS, with indefatigable crop of committee members was climaxed with allowing participants to do self-assessment and contributions which will make subsequent seminars more educative and relevant. Just incase you missed this one, my tip for you is, “How to write a winning C.V.” – suggested by a GRASAG member, and many other entrepreneurial and carrier development tips.

NUGS, success is neither a high jump nor a long jump; it is the steps of a marathon.

CENTRAL NUGS 2014/15, keep treading on the slippery road with firm steps and success shall welcome you.

By

 

Torku Cylensa Dzesi

The Unseen Eye

U.D.S. 2013/14 NAVRONGO S.R.C. FINALIST DINNER.

On Saturday 17th of May 2014, all roads, traffic, motorcycles were en routed to the Mayaga hotel, a 49 minutes’ walk, 4 km road from campus, where the first ever finalist dinner was to be held.

Throngs of finalist trooped to the venue either by the SRC shuttle, motorbikes or on foot. Finalist, on whose faces worry lines where deeply drawn because of the unavailability of the shuttle at a point in time had to either jog or walk briskly to the venue. The ultimate reason upon survey, was because most felt their share of the cake should not go waste. Guess what, they had a point!

In attendance were lecturers, outgone SRC/NUGS executives, few SRC/NUGS executives of the current administration and finalist.

The all decent and official dress code dinner welcomed all finalist with a wow moment, where you get to win a take home souvenir of either a pen, wristband, bag or key holder. The moment, not being discriminatory gave all attendees the chance to win a souvenir each.

With appropriate measures put in place to remedy the flop during the handing over, coupons or chits for collection of water, drink and food were handed over to attendees before entry. The next time you find yourself organizing a dinner or party, adopt this style because it favours the patient.

The programme was characterized by classical “MCing” from Sween Ofori and Delis Williams, they were undisputedly superb. Did they read “How to M.C. Any Event” by Kafui Dey? I guess so because they are members of the Magnifiers Springboard Club on campus. Communication between the M.C.’s, event organizers and Disk jogger (D.J.) depicted professionalism.

The man of the day, D.J. Jerry, rocked collection of tunes from the “Boys a bre”, “Enter the net”, “Adonai” hit makers, Guru, Shatta Wale and Sarkodie respectively. It is worth noting that some finalist could barely pin their “buttocks” on their seats because of the carefully chosen tracks and mixes played by the master D.J. Confession, you hire this D.J. once and I tell you he will become your personal favourite.

The outgone SRC president, Anthony Acquaye expressed his heart felt gratitude to finalist for burying differences amongst themselves as well as the SRC during their 4 years stay on campus, of his administration was not left out.

The chairman of the gathering and few other lecturers present used the platform to counsel finalist on the attractions, temptations and dangers associated with National Service and the job market. To add, ethical coaching was given on the realities of the job market. Some also took to preaching on the dangers of alcoholism and the use of drugs.

Surprisingly, socialization with the opposite sex followed the normal trend leaving poised gentlemen blue because only few ladies were in attendance.

The programme, characterized by merry making was climaxed with sharing of souvenirs and exchange of pleasantries.

SRC 2013/2014, Ayekoo for your explicit thoughts about the finalist.

By: 

Torku Cylensa Dzesi

Clive Palmer says he will oppose deregulation of university fees

Palmer United party leader will 'definitely' be voting against higher education changes and says university should be free



Federal MP Clive Palmer prepares to address the Queensland Media Club in Brisbane on Monday. Photograph: Dan Peled/AAP


Clive Palmer has come out against the deregulation of university fees for domestic students, meaning the government may struggle to pass the proposed laws through the Senate.


The Palmer United party leader, who has not previously declared a position on the legislation, told the Queensland Media Club he supported the deregulation of university fees for international students on Monday, then sent out a statement saying the higher education loans program (Help) should be abolished and university made free.

A spokesman confirmed Palmer’s opposition to the deregulation of university fees for domestic students and said he would “definitely” be voting against it.

The move to allow universities to set fees with no cap has created fears university could become unaffordable for students from poor backgrounds. The federal government also proposes to reduce the commonwealth subsidy by 20% on average, increase the interest charged on student loans, lower the income threshold for beginning to pay back a student loan and expand commonwealth-supported places to sub-bachelor programs and non-university providers such as private colleges

Palmer told the media club he supported deregulation for overseas students, who currently pay full fees while the average Australian student is subsidised for more than half of their degree by the government.

Palmer has also called for the end of the Help scheme (formerly Hecs) which most students use to pay for their degrees, and instead make university free.

“We should be doing everything we can to encourage our smartest Australians to pursue tertiary education and take this great country forward, rather than put barriers in their way such as higher fees and Hecs,’’ he said in a statement.

“I would like to see the return to a free university system for Australian students so everybody can have the same dreams and aspirations about bettering themselves and this nation, regardless of their circumstances.”

Palmer said Australia’s best thinkers were being “stifled” and the country was “burying them in debt”.

The government will need Palmer United party support to pass legislation which is opposed by Labor and the Greens when the new Senate sits in July. Palmer has already come out in opposition to the $7 co-payment to visit the GP, the indexation of the pension and increase in the age of eligibility, the indexation of the fuel excise and the deficit levy for higher-income earners.


Bridie Jabour

theguardian.com, Monday 19 May 2014

Statement: National Economic Forum: The Senchi Consensus

The three-day National Economic Forum at Senchi near Akosombo in the Eastern Region ended on Thursday evening with a 22-point resolution.

The non-partisan participants proposed among other things, the amendment of the Bank of Ghana Act to set a ceiling on its lending to government.

According to the communiqué, this should be separated from the ceiling on total net domestic borrowing by government.

The state was also charged to encourage and promote indigenous entrepreneurship and continue to execute projects and programmes commenced by the previous Government.

BELOW IS THE CONSENSUS

National Economic Forum May 12 – 15, 2014

The Senchi Consensus

From May 12 – 15, 2014, 140 Ghanaians drawn from organized labour, Ghanaian private sector, professional associations, financial institutions, security services, traditional leaders, political parties, parliamentarians, the clergy, policy think tanks, academia, civil society, and government ministries met in Senchi in the spirit of our shared interest and commitments for Building a National Consensus for Economic and Social Transformation as well as our collective pursuit of inclusive and sustainable development.

We the participants further agreed on the following:

1. That the Directive Principles of State Policy (Chapter 6 of the 1992 Constitution) must continue to guide the national development effort, anchored in a long term national development framework with a compelling vision.

2. That long term national interest should supersede all other interests.

3. That the State encourages and promotes indigenous entrepreneurship and continues to execute projects and programmes commenced by the previous Government.

4. Foster a state whose day-to-day management is supported by a professionally competent civil service working in an environment devoid of political victimization and intimidation and where support for the Government is not interpreted as political affiliation.

5. It is imperative to strengthen the public accounts and finance committees of Parliament to play their oversight responsibilities more effectively; and also to develop a mechanism for effective synergy and coordination between the Monitoring Units of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) and the Office of the President.

6. That a mechanism to effectively monitor, evaluate and reform the use of statutory funds transferred to public sector institutions such as the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF), National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFUND) must be established.

7. That government should establish a One-Stop-Shop for investments, electronic templates to simplify business processes, streamline the activities of the Ghana Export Promotion Council (GEPC), Ghana Investment Promotion Council (GIPC) and Free zones Board, and strengthen the capacity of the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and other statistical reporting agencies to deliver reliable and timely economic and social statistics for planning, research and development.

8. The Ministry of Finance should as a matter of urgency review the targets set in the 2014 budget. The review must identify likely deviations and make proposals for plugging the resultant financing gap while the Bank of Ghana traces the implications of the revisions for monetary policy.

9. That a mechanism must established to realign the budget whenever the economy is affected by unanticipated shocks

10. Government must strengthen the regulatory authorities to protect consumers and ensure the enforcement of standards.

11. Further steps must be taken to support Small-Medium Enterprises (SME) in order to protect jobs.

12. That further efforts must be made to improve the efficiency of tax collection as well as broaden the tax base and reduce recourse to the introduction of new taxes. The incidence of discretionary tax exemptions should be reviewed and reduced.

13. Bank of Ghana should expedite work on the assessment of the recently announced foreign exchange measures and take speedy and appropriate action to restore confidence and relieve the unintended consequences of the measures.

14. Consideration should be given to the amendment of the Bank of Ghana Act to set a ceiling on its lending to government that is based on government’s revenue collection in the previous year, rather than the current year as is currently that case. This should be separated from the ceiling on total net domestic borrowing by government.

15. An investment programme to deal with the energy crisis must be put in place as a matter of urgency in order to propel growth, employment, competitiveness, and macroeconomic stability.

16. That government must take steps to revamp the manufacturing and agriculture sectors to encourage domestic production of some agricultural products as well as import substitutable manufactured goods.

17. Ghana needs accelerated implementation of the current plan to develop the interbank foreign exchange and money markets to ensure active primary and secondary trading.

18. For the purposes of encouraging high national productivity, government, labour and the private sector must collaborate to institute a management and labour productivity crusade including the introduction of a Service Charter that ensures that productivity is matched with remuneration.

19. Take steps to develop long term financing instruments to minimize reliance on short term financing.

20. That a clear and simplified policy framework to help grow and migrate the informal sectors into the formal is urgently required. As such steps must be taken to simplify business registration process, non-mandatory SSNIT contribution up to a minimum number of employees by informal sector operators.

21. We your fellow Ghanaians recognize that socio-economic development is a journey, not a destination. As such, efforts to build a national consensus and long-term plan must also take the mode of a journey. We therefore recommend that the National Economic Forum be institutionalized and that a committee be established to explore various options and model for undertaking this process of institutionalization.

22. Government must take steps to galvanize consensus around other issues of national importance, especially with respect to political governance nation-building matters, and should initiate a process of involving citizens whose experience, insight and expertise will enhance economic policy management and national governance.

A full and detailed report of the proceedings will be made available within few weeks.

http://www.myjoyonline.com/business/2014/May-15th/statement-national-economic-forum-the-senchi-consensus.php