“Its a been a long day, without you my friend, and I will tell you all about it when I see you again”. These are the words of Wiz Kalifa ft Charlie Puth.

January was undoubtedly, a wonderful month, as it is the first month of every year, with 2018 been no exception, as was declared by most religious leaders across the globe. Some  declared the year as; 'a year of success', 'power', 'determination', 'fruitfulness', 'year of the Lords', among others.

Everything in this country appears to have been politicised, making life difficult nowadays. Political opponents see each other as enemies whenever public discourse and ideas are been challenged or debunked. It has come to a point where gulping of water, attending of public events and even coughing are been attributed to politics.

As a result of this, majority of the citizenry find it difficult to partake in national issues for the fear of being victimised nor bring up their 'workable' ideas to help push a society or move the country forward. This is very disturbing!

It's high time we desisted from such 'partisan politricking' as well as moving away from poor attitudes in order for our society to flourish.

But I think Citizens and Leaders are both 'faulty'.

Take a critical look at this;

A nurse, who's supposed to attend to sick patients will be tweeting, whatsapping, facebooking or probably shaking the head and twisting the body as if he/she has finished a fasting session just to shoot a mini video on SnapChat or Instagram during working hours.

Financiers of Institutions will connive with 'others' by adding Zero's to a proposed budget, hoping to share their profits accrued at the end.

Favorites and family members with no/less knowledge nor qualification/experience in relation to a job or position will always be paraded and kept in offices by their "Bosses".

Journalists, who're supposed to report on issues affecting the nation would 'Chok for one corner' and patiently seek for 'Soli' with their conscience ignoring the plights of the citizenry who needs immediate attention. Others will go in for 'Soli' and pretend to be Holy in the sight of Men.

'Those' in charge of church offerings will always exercise their mathematical prowess by subtracting and adding coins/notes which will eventually end up in their pocket.

Workers will falsify reports to get their hardworking colleagues fired from their post with no tangible reason. Those contesting for positions with others will do everything possible to 'cut them off' by spreading and championing rumours, as well as falsehood in order to dent the reputation of their opponents.

'Citizens', expected to act not like spectators, will secretly take monies out and overlook problems affecting the society at large. These people have been ployed to defend and 'polish up' the bad policies of leaders to make them look good in the sight of people. Interestingly, they're willing to voice out and highlight the mishaps affecting the land, but since their conscience have been 'crippled' with some 'coins' and kheebabs, they're barred from doing so. What a pity!

CEOs and Business owners will seek to take advantage of their position and sleep with innocent ladies before employing them. This situation has made it difficult for good jobs to be executed. Poor Ladies who fall for such antics, probably because of their income status, wouldn't be willing to work hard upon securing such jobs.
Others will use their offices as 'Mini Hotels' conducting 'body operations' on women who visit them.

Most Leaders will comfartably sit somewhere and plan on how to dupe their people or probably meet and drink 'Beer' with tax payers' money. They keep diverting resources into their 'pockets' without bothering about the welfare of their people. If you're a leader and fond of deceiving your dependents, remember your cup will be full one day.

It's always disappointing and disheartening listening to periodic heated but baseless political propaganda on the airwaves. Contributors know the truth yet they'll never speak it out. Just a few media platforms do tackle issues which hinder the development of our country and I commend them for that.

Even with this, finding solutions to these problems after discussion is also another headache.

There are countless actions which impede the growth of our country, and such actions mustn't be encouraged, if we're truly serious to make life easy as a nation.

We shouldn't hesitate to criticise our leaders and also put them on their toes to work, they've been chosen to serve and not to be served. As we put them on their toes, we ought to also check and be mindful of our attitudes as well.

Societies will be governable if its people change their bad attitudes and work for a common goal.

Subordinates shouldn't be "allergic" to the truth. We must be bold when speaking the truth.

"Kanawu, eye kyen se wo teetee"

May God instill in us, discipline and honesty, for an effective nation building.

© Nambe Patrick - Ghana Institute of Journalism, Accra.

Dear President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo,

I have been compelled to write to you in such a short time since I last wrote. Today, I will be very brief. My decision to be brief is not because I do not have much to say, but I am writing with anger and disappointment at your behaviour, your vice, and your ministers of state.

Our elders have advised that a man should not speak when he is angry. But I cannot keep quiet over this serious issue which has put you and your ministers at your irresponsible worst, so I will mitigate any harmful effects of my words by keeping them short.

Mr. President, since afternoon, I have been watching you, your Vice-President and what appears like an entourage of all your cabinet and 110 ministers at the funeral of the late queen mother of the Asante people. This week, this is the second time you and your Vice President have found time to mourn with Otumfuo and Asanteman. I don’t have any problem when you have the time to be at the funeral every day of the week. Apart from showing respect to the dead and honouring custom, Asantes are the largest ethnic group in Ghana so it makes political sense to be seen at the biggest gathering of Asanteman when it matters most.

But there is something I find very irresponsible, to put it mildly, about your visits to Kumasi this week. It is your failure to visit the students and teachers of Kumasi Academy. Eleven students of that senior high school have died in the last 8 months. In the past one week, four students of that school have died while about 16 of them have been hospitalised. The most worrying part of it all is that pathologists, medical doctors and health professionals say they do not know the cause of the death. They say the disease is yet to be diagnosed and it may be the first of its kind.

Harrowing television footages of distraught parents and traumatised students running around the campus, like a flock that has been attacked by bees, should not only worry us, but alarm us. There are close to 3000 students in that school and nobody knows what will happen next. We don’t know who else is living with the strange sickness.

Mr. President, the least you could do as the father of the nation is to spare at least five minutes of your time to address the students and help calm them down as school authorities and health personnel try to convince them not to go home for the fear of spreading the unknown disease. Elsewhere in the civilised world, the nation would have paused and paid attention to Kumasi Academy and call for external support in order to save the lives of the young ones. But it is sickening to admit that we don’t value human lives here and your attitude has confirmed it.

When the seven students died after the first disease outbreak in the school in March this year, the school appeared more interested in planning its 60th anniversary celebration than taking steps to safeguard the lives of the remaining students. Last week, when two of the students died, the school downplayed it. In the words of a source, “the school did not want the death to mar the anniversary celebration that was happening over the weekend so we hid news of the deaths.”

Mr. President, you were in Kumasi Academy for that 60th Anniversary programme last weekend, but your speech did not mention the deaths. I don’t blame you because my sources say the school authorities hid the news about the deaths from you. Elsewhere, the deaths and hospitalisation was enough reason to call off the celebration of the anniversary. This week, after the 60th anniversary event, two more students died and many more were rushed to the hospital.

The mysterious deaths at Kumasi Academy have been the main news item on all media platforms that matter in this country. Granted that you did not know about the deaths last week, can you also say you have not heard about the deaths this week?

Or are you telling us, through your attitude, that the death of 11 students in 8 months is not big enough to attract your attention and that of your ministers while you’re in Kumasi? The Minister of Education, I am told, was in Kumasi but he has not visited the school. The senior minister and all those who matter in your government are all in Kumasi, fighting hard to be recognised at the big funeral. But Kumasi Academy is yet to catch your attention.

Your excellency, going to Kumasi Academy will not automatically stop the deaths. But it will be a psychological boost to the students and the health personnel working to determine what is killing the young men and women of our republic. It will show that we are a serious nation with serious and responsible leaders. It will show us that at least our leaders value human lives. It will show the children that their leaders care about them. It will help boost their sense of patriotism.

I’m sure if a lunatic had gone to an American senior high school and gunned down five students, you would have gone on Facebook and Twitter to show your support. Why are you quiet when your own are dying? I left high school not very long ago, so I still remember the trauma that greeted us for months when one of us died. In their case, they have buried 11 students in eight months. Their school has not been fumigated. What would qualify as a national emergency centre seems to escape the attention of all who matter in our country.

Mr. President, exactly a year ago, millions of Ghanaians queued to vote for you. A majority of those people were young people. Some of them do not have big names. They are not prominent enough to attract you to their funerals, but when they die in groups, it should concern you.

If you can find time to be in Kumasi two times this week and spend hours sitting at the final funeral rights of the late queen mother, then you surely have enough time to spare at least five minutes to speak to the young men and women of Kumasi Academy. You surely have enough time to assure them, their teachers and parents that the nation cares about their plight.

Anything short of this is an act of irresponsibility on your part and on the part of your key sector ministers who should have been there. It is not too late to do what is right.

Until I come your way again,

This is Manasseh Azure Awuni. I am a citizen, not a spectator!

Source: manassehazure.com

Recognized as a great man and a Pan-Africanist, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah led Ghana to independence on March 6,1957. Under the late John Evans Atta Mills' governance, his date of birth was marked as a statutory holiday regarded as "The Founder's Day". Today marks his 108th birthday.

Embedded in the celebration of the day is celebrating/hailing Dr. Nkrumah as a Pan-Africanist who propelled the "Self-Government Now" campaign which conscientized the Gold Coasters on the need to strive for self-governance.

In this recent times, there's been lots of controversies surrounding the celebration of the Founder's Day. There's been suggestions that, the 21st day of September if observed as a holiday, should be  "The Patriots' Day" or "Founders' Day" not the Founder's Day as Dr. Nkrumah was a member of "the Big Six" who equally deserves the honour. Others argue it should be maintained since Dr. Nkrumah led the group.

However, the current government, the Akufo-Addo-led-administration has issued an executive instrument to rename September 21 "Nkrumah Memorial Day", and he has proposed a legislation to designate August 4 as Founders' Day. Well, that is yet to be debated on in Parliament.

Others also regard the celebration of the day to stifle development. Speaking to some students at the Ghana Institute of Journalism yesterday, the day can be singled out as a commemoration for Dr. Nkrumah without being declared a statutory holiday. According to them, no special activities come off on this day to usher the country into further development. Various schools, public and private sectors take the day off which stifles progress of the nation.

Should September 21 be regarded as a holiday? Or do we rebrand it to Founders' Day or the Patriots Day as been proposed?
Well, bring in your thoughts and comments.


Your Social Commentator,

Esther Nkrumah Amoah.

Today, unlike in the past, we are entertained in commercial buses. Music will be blaring, while we get to watch local and foreign movies. The question we've failed to ask is: Are TVs in trotros for our viewing pleasure or distraction?



You don't need to strain to see television sets tugged in trotros if you public transport. The revolution has caught on with all drivers that vehicles with little space for passengers have TVs.

Whiles the motive might be good, I'm convinced TVs in trotros is a distractive tool that encourage the drivers to overspeed on our roads.

Though there are no figures to show the contribution of TVS to road accidents, there is no denying the danger are likely to pose to other road users and passengers.

Though it is unlawful to install television set on dashboards, no law prevents the installation of it in public transports. This has offered the pleasure to vehicles without enough space to also install television in their cars at the expense of passenger comfort.

Regulations 189 of the Road Traffic Regulations provides said, among others that a person shall not use or operate a television monitor or a similar device on the dashboard of a vehicle while the motor vehicle is in motion.

It beats me how it is possible for them to install television sets in their vehicles, yet they forget to create comfort for their passengers. It is easy to sit in public transport and feel the flesh of the next passenger close to yours.



How is this possible?

As though on cue, almost all sprinter and 207 buses have TVs but there is no room to accommodate the legs of passengers the space is shared with spare tyres, gallons and other spare parts which create inconvenience for their passengers.

The simple reason for the installation of the television sets is to prevent passengers from interfering with drivers.

Driving needs critical attention and focus but the TVs help them to the do the opposite. It is the job of drivers to ferry their passengers to safety. TVs prevent the drivers from picking unusual noises from their vehicles and in their environment which could lead to road carnage in the future if not checked.

This is why passengers have to be extra-vigilant to monitor drivers from over-speeding and reckless driving.

Law enforcement agencies such as the police have a role to play here. They must ensure that vehicles which have TVs on their dashboards are punished since the act flouts the law.

Safety on our roads is neither the sole job of the police nor passengers. It is a job for all Ghanaians - government, security agencies, National Road Safety Commission (NRSC) and Parliament.

Let's be safe and insist on safety.

Source: Forgive Francis Amedeka

Unlike Nursing, perceived to be a noble profession with passion, will power and commitment, our current crop of nurses seem to destroy that tag.



Majority of High School leavers now 'throng' into banks and/or Internet Café(s) for the yearly NTC admission forms, purposely not for anything else but to 'swerve' the issue of unemployment and also smile to their respective banks for monthly allowances. That's not a bad idea tho!

Meanwhile, these very students wouldn't be apt enough to work for the country right after completion from NTC, as they 'graciously' throw away the 'oath' that binds them to be professional Nurses with integrity. They feel 'bossy' and most at times reluctant to work whenever they get the chance to be posted to any of the Health Centres in this country.

Let's all conduct an inquisitive check into the various hospitals across the country and monitor the attitudes and work ethics of these nurses, it's very very poor. Some nurses are highly disrespectful, while others can't even give an injection nor give a brief info about dosing. They've eventually turned health centres into 'perfect studios' for selfies and groupies. Anaa me'boaa?

Just a few nurses prove their hard work, and even with that, they seem to work write 'lots of eyes' are on them.

But hey! Good nurses do exist, Yes! And there's no argument on that. They should keep it up.

To be frank with everybody, the calmness and patience of a nurse when speaking to Patients who visit health centres could soothe their pain, and even 'cure' off their sickness that very moment, but these nurses seem to care less about that. They speak anyhow to patients when they're chanced upon, and lots of Patients are dying slowly because of this prob.

I've witnessed an interesting but a rather sad event where nurses were 'dodging' from being called to assist and also 'dress up' a poor patient who had been wailing due to a deep cut on her leg. It's interesting because, they swiftly 'vanished' into thin air, and sad because, they were actually running away from their duties. So, who are these nurses deceiving?

This is evident to know and understand that, our (current)generational nurses are been forced by the Parents or guardians into the NTC, when they rightly know that, the passion for the job, from these kids isn't there, and not even Usain Bolt' can even catch it for them when he's alled upon.

If you're a High School Graduate, and you know very well that, the passion and commitment for this profession isn't available, don't hesitate to pick an NTC admission form, so as to protect the 'poor' souls in the near future. Don't waste your fees if you're not ready to work well as a Nurse. Take your time and follow your passion, and don't be 'forced' into a profession which you're not interested.

And as a Nurse, if you're being tagged as a worker with poor work ethics and human relations by those around you, then take your time and refrain from such attitudes.

On a more serious note, the directive given by government to minimise the intake of students into NTCs is in the right direction, and I don't think this decision was solely made to solve the 'tussle', when it comes to the payment of allowances for students as always promised during electioneering period. I applaud the government for that, this will go a long way to positively help the entire nation at large, as government struggles to employ Nurses across the country.

Let's face reality, and not politicise this issue.

"Nursing is a noble profession, we want quality of services, not quantity."

If you disagree with me, let's have an intellectual discourse.

- Nambe Patrick (August, 2017)

Personally, I have chanced upon the video of Rashida Black Beauty on a Facebook page, highly 'unladylike' and I'm unenthused about this current crop of development where people crave for fame by doing something 'spectacular' to their followers and/or fans.

However, I sense and believe that, this widely shared video of Rashida could be black mail and calculated attempt to 'punish' as well as dent her 'publicity' which she gained, after the incident with her EX boyfriend which hit the media some few months ago.

Judging from the video myself, it looks like an old one, there's a vast difference considering her stature in the video and that of her current physique upon her fame.

Honestly speaking, Rashida at the first place recording herself is condemnable and shouldn't be encouraged by all and sundry.

Again, it should also serve as a wary to our fine ladies who fancy sharing their nudes with their supposed boyfriend(s) for the sake of love. Most ladies are secretly doing that for the of fear losing their relationship. It's highly uncharacteristic to do that, and what kind of love is it at the first place for people to prove their worth and affection to their lovers through the exchange of nudes?

Unfortunately, this video has really gone viral, as most people, including prominent media enthusiasts have picked it up. Let's try our best not to recirculate the video, and also halt the harsh criticisms and backlash which is been unleashed on her.

In the mean time, I would be waiting for Rashida to release an official communique with regard to this video and her reasons for doing that, since my early assertions might be wrong.

I wouldn't be surprised to see or hear Entertainment Shows across the country using this unfortunate incident as a review on their show tomorrow. I feel sad for Rashida!

Social media has become a powerful tool, which can make and unmake people at the same time. Let's be cautious and circumspect with the kind of content we share on daily basis.

"We can all be famous at a point in time but just a one second of mistake can erase the respect and admiration which have been earned from people. Let's be conscious at all time!"

—

Nambe Patrick is my identity, and I am a student at the Ghana Institute of Journalism.

© Nambe Patrick (July, 2017)

What could be wrong with typing “Amen”? Nothing, I thought, until a friend warned me about the consequences of doing so. I decided to share this information with the readers of Bright Side.

If you are a regular Facebook user and someone who feels compassion for the suffering of others, you have surely noticed those publications that say things like “ I know you won’t ’Like’ this photo because I’m sick“ or ” Type ’Amen’ to heal me.“

I was one of those people who felt bad when seeing the “ Keep scrolling if you’re heartless” types of posts until a friend alerted me to the scam behind it.

There is no life that can be saved with a “Like“ or illness that can be cured by typing ”Amen”: you’re doing this to show your support. But, despite your good intent, by doing that you’re very likely to be helping Facebook spammers make some easy money.

These types of manipulative posts are designed to trick or exploit people into liking, sharing, or commenting, which in turn results in the page accumulating followers. The creators of the page then spread malicious publicity, viruses, and scams. They also keep your data and know where you live, your date of birth, and your email, which could be used to hack your account.



When you share these posts, you’re actually doing real harm by increasing their popularity. Because when this happens, the page owner earns money using a stolen image of a suffering animal or a sick baby whose family has no idea it’s being used.

So next time you feel bad for not sharing one of these posts on your wall, keep in mind that your “Like“ and ”Amen” won’t save any lives. It will only help a bunch of heartless people fill their pockets.

Source: brightside.me

BE CAREFUL NOT TO SELL YOUR CONSCIENCE OVER A BOWL OF INDOMIE.

We live in an era where the Voice of the Voiceless' becomes silent in our society.

Those who are supposed to push up their voices and agenda also tend to forget about them, when they start sipping 'expensive' drinks or probably get hold of Offices with Air-condition.

They begin their 'dubious' operations with smiling faces but later greet their people with frowning faces right after securing high official positions.

We also live in an era where the honest people, eager to speak the truth are always tagged as threats, as others are sidelined from attending major activities in our society.

They do their very best to criticise and carry their messages across without fear. But, it's just a few of who are able to resist pressure from the public.

I'm still trying to figure out how people and why who are vocal in our society, tend to backslide with the truth after a period of time.

It is rather laughable to find out that, those who backslide with the truth are been persuaded by the very people who are in the centre of criticisms for not doing the right thing in our society.

There are instances where leaders of the various Pressure Groups in our Institutions, who are quick to comment on issues become mute right after series of close door meeting(s) with 'those' been criticised.

They go there to sell their conscience, as well as negotiate and take huge sums of money in a bid to cover up real issues from the sight of men.

Others are been lured with small amount of money and used as 'Boy-Boy' to paint 'people' black, as well as flood the system with lies so as to cover up the truth.

All these events aren't helping the nation as a whole.

Speak the truth always, and don't be deceived by the cunning poli-tricsters who will only 'break bottles' with you at the initial stage and 'dumb' you later on.

You're always free to criticise whenever you have a clear conscience.

Selling out your conscience for favours wouldn't give you peace, but it will definitely dent your integrity at the end.

—

Nambe Patrick is my identity, and I'm a student at the Ghana Institute of Journalism, Accra.

© Nambe Patrick

Relationship is a way in which two or more people or groups regard and behave towards each other. 


Campus relationship is one kind of relationship specifically in various second cycle institutions,  (S.H.S) which does not last for a long period of time: popularly known as the "HELP ME FINISH MY COURSE AFFAIR", it is predictable for such forms of relationship to end right after high school.

I can affirm that, high school relationship happens for fun, in a sense that averagely, only 5% of people are able to sustain their various relationships till marriage.  "CHOP BOX TO CHOP BOX" as it may be called , is just for fun where students in high school engage themselves in.

Even though campus or high school relationship don't last, it helps both boys and girls to relate or socialize or have good interpersonal relationship with one another in the outside world after school.

Besides, there are both positive, negative and challenges in this "campus love".

The positive aspect is one get a studying partner and companion whiles on campus.

Negatively, one begins to flop when he or she is academically brilliant and loses focus while in class which sometimes leads to failure. Both will begin to flout the rules and regulations governing the school. For example; Absenting themselves from campus gathering like dinning, assembly, church service and the rest.

I would be grateful if students in the various high schools most expecially , those in the mixed schools will avoid this kind of relationship and focus on their studies since that is the most important thing for been there.

I suggest that; High School Relationship should be thrown of the bar and curtailed with punitive measures.

"But it a kind of fun though , talking about the love at first site and all the drama it entails will just make you marvel".

Written by : Margaret oduro (GIJ)

Agezae is a small community at the Western part of Ghana, Nzema to be precised. Though farming and fishing are the most dominant occupation, there are some major challenges which the people of Agezae face.



Some notable challenges have been discussed below.

 To begin with, it has come to the realisation that,  the absence of quality communication network or service is problematic. Residents of Agezae find it very difficult to send and receive information with the hope of getting a direct feedback. This 'canker' has compelled residents to move into the next town before using technology to communicate. Alternatively, one needs to climb an electric pole or tree in order to get network for calls, but the dangers likely to emergence afterwards wouldn't be a good one. There have been some record case where people lose their teeth as a result of falling from the tree.

Another issue is lack of social amenities. An 'inquisitive survey' in the community will prove that, basic social amenities such as Hospitals, Schools, public toilets and much more are scarce, making life unbearable for people living there. It is 'awful' to know that, majority of sick patients always 'give up their ghost' on the way to a nearby hospital, since it takes about 20km from Agezae to reach there. This situation is worrisome.

In summation, the people of Agezae find it difficult to 'cope' with life as a result of the absence of quality communication and social amenities.  The government should take a critical look at this small community by providing them with what they lack.  Moreover,  philanthropist and NGOs can support the people of Agezae as well.  This will make life there enjoyable.

• Article written by ; Margaret Oduro, a student at the Ghana Institute of Journalism, Accra.

In recent times, the number of road accidents in this country have increased tremendously and if not tackled head on, it would erode the highest death rate in this country.



I would like to use this opportunity to express my ideas on the topic above.

Below are some causes, effects and solutions with regard to road accidents in Ghana.

One of the major cause of road accidents in the country is as a result of over speeding by drivers and motorist. It is widely known that over speeding kills, yet most drivers and motorists engage themselves into it with the notion that; "They are in a hurry to reach their destination", with this passengers have no say on that.

Most at times, this situation happens whenever drivers try to negotiate a curve. You will all bear with me, won't you?

This has led to the death of passengers and can be controlled by educating drivers on the effects of it.

 Another contributory factor to accidents is due to deplorable nature of roads in this country. The road network linking places are very poor, making it difficult for drivers use them, eventually leads to accident.

Many roads have pot holes on which makes it very difficult for drivers to slow down whenever they are driving, which could lead to death as well as properties getting destroyed.

This can be solved if only the government see to it that, roads are well constructed.

Again, most drivers drink alcohol before driving with the intention that,the alcohol will boost their morale whiles driving.

This is another cause of road accidents. You will all bear with me that, after one takes in alcohol, he or she becomes weak and also misbehave abnormally. So with  this how can a 'weak' driver lead people to their destinations?

But then, this issue can be solved if station masters see to it that all drivers aren't 'boozed' before allowing them to start their journey.

Conclusively, I would enf here with high hopes that, the above issue would be taken as a matter of emergency.

Let's join the campaign to monitor and curb road accidents in this country.

Written by; Margaret Oduro

Being a Leader isn't easy, I must confess. I commend H.E. Madugu and his team for taken up the task as leaders of our ; noble Institution.



I chanced upon a communiqué on GIJ SRC (OFFICIAL) Group on Facebook, dated, 16 April, 2016 at 22:16 GMT with the caption, "MADUGU’S FOUR POINTS MESSAGE OF HOPE!!"

As at that time, I was still 'warming up' to be part of the biggest educational community, which is the Ghana Institute of Journalism. An extract from that communiqué caught my attention; Point 2 under the Academic Development depicts the emergence of a strong Internet Service (Wi-Fi), which should arguably be faster than Usain Bolt of Jamaica. A good news for the Student then, I sighed. However, this isn't the case. The Internet service on Campus is slower than the word 'slower', making life difficult for most students on Campus.

Somewhere last Semester, I sat 'under' the Canopy, to download a 15MB PDF on Logic and Critical Thinking. Due to the slow nature of the WI-FI, I left the phone with a friend, walked to Food Joint, located right after the G.F.A. Office, proceeded to the Parliament House, and came back to Campus, only to check my download; 17% Complete." Like seriously?

I was shocked, and had to console myself by borrowing data from my network provider, in order to complete the download process. Someone will quiz, "What if your friend had interrupted the download?" Trust, she had no idea about the PIN to unlock my phone, not to think of 'navigating' through the Download Folder.

I have carefully observed a trend on Campus, where students raise their phones in a funny manner wherever they find themselves on Campus. Initially, I thought it was a new style of taking 'Selfies', but upon further probings, I have realised that, it is new way of getting Internet Service in order to access the World Wide Web.

A self acclaimed 'Dugu Soldier' rudely rebuked me sometime ago for sharing my displeasure with regards to the poor Internet connectivity on Campus. He suggested to me that, I should be early on Campus if I'm serious about using the Internet, or else be mute about it. Sosket!

The best 'defensive strategy' from the 'Soldier' was that; The large number of students on GIJ contribute to making the WI-FI slow. I went like 'WOW'

Was the Soldier actually suggesting that; Students should always leave their homes/hostel, as early as 04:00am or 05:00am to Campus, purposely to use the WI-FI for their assignments?

Honestly, I wouldn't buy such an idea.

If you can, please take an 'inquisitive trip' to schools such as the Sunyani Polytechnic, and compare their population to that of GIJ. Despite their large number, the Internet connectivity in that school is super faster. I'm able to access their WI-FI in the comfort of my home. I know what I'm saying.

Frankly speaking, most GIJ students are complaining about this problem. Others are mute, since they strongly believe that, nothing can be done solve this issue. Students are eager to stay on Campus to research and complete their assignments, but the schools WI-FI wouldn't help them.

This situation is worrying.

• But, I urge H.E. Benjamin Madugu and his team to find a quick 'antidote' to this issue. They should go in for other Internet Service Providers, if that will solve the issue on board. This will enable students to find things much more easier on Campus.

"We have to benefit from what we pay for."

© Nambe Patrick

Congratulations to all MPs, elected to represent their Constituency and the "Voiceless" in Parliament. Well, they shouldn't ignore and forget those who kept them there.



You are being elected by your people to work and not to chill. Those "Tasty" and "mouth watering" promises should be fulfilled immediately. Those of you who went round pounding Fufu in chop bars, sweeping the street, washing plates, and carrying gallons of water which haven't happened in your life since you were born, in order to secure votes should try and remain loyal to that. It wouldn't be a bad idea to keep on pounding Fufu and washing plates for your people, which will only happen in the next 4 years.

There are instances where skinny Legislatures develop "Potbelly" right after entering Parliament. These same Law-makers tend to be ungrateful towards those who placed them there, as they forget about the subsequent 4 years which will soon pop up.

Some will quiz "Don't you think I would have won without your help?", Others will grumble "I could have won without your support."The most annoying ones will be rhyming "Vote or No vote, I will still be voted." Herhh! That is wickedness.

Amazingly, some Mps are patiently waiting to enter Parliament in order to divert and fill their personal bank accounts with Tax Payers Money. Ayooo! If you are one of them, please change your mind now because the amount of beatings and slaps awaiting you is still doing press up in the Gym.

On a more serious note, this shouldn't be happening. Be Patriotic in serving your constituents with faith, and don't let them bore nor lose trust in you. Be a humble server, make sure their votes aren't wasted. Remember, you can "Maffia" your people and equally be "Maffiaed.

Above all, lets embrace Peace and drive away War. Congrats once again, and we look forward to a successful Parliament.

God bless our homeland Ghana.

Signed;

Nambe Patrick,
Ghana Institute Of Journalism.

You have studied myriads of theories in almost every lecture hall on GIJ Campus. You have successfully memorized these complex theories and reproduced them in all examinations and assessments, thus earning you an honourable degree in your field of study. Most of the organizations you dream of working in require a considerable level of experience before they can hire you.



The tricky question going through the mind of almost every young graduate is “Where can I gain this experience if all companies are unwilling to accept newbies?”

Truth is, the professional and corporate world is tough and more serious than you could imagine, thus if they are going to pay for your service, you must be completely up to the task. In order for graduates not to find themselves in such uncomfortable situations, opportunities are available for them to gain some experience while they pursue their courses. These opportunities come in the form of internships, practical assignments, voluntary work, etc.

However, most students either do no not see the need for these somewhat ‘stressful activities’ or do not show much interest and zeal when given the opportunity.

As a result, they are unable to gain the appropriate experience and proper networking needed for future employment. Interestingly, many human resource departments report that they mostly seek full-time employees from interns who exhibit certain exceptional skills and attitudes towards their work.

As Level 300 and Diploma students of the Ghana Institute of Journalism are embarking on a three month intensive internship programme, another opportunity has been given. The sole purpose of these Internships are to introduce students to future work environments, enable them to acquire practical skills and experience, as well as make contacts with potential future employers.

Let us find out how you can make the best out of this and possibly become the next candidate for full-employment by your Human Resource department.

1) Punctuality: Time is gradually losing its essence in this country, thus the few people who respect time with regards to work are branded exceptional. Always get to work on time and call in case of emergencies.

2) Respect: Keeping up on what behavior is appropriate for the workplace may be a challenge for most interns. However, you must to be courteous and respectful in all you do, considering the fact that most of the people you will be working with are older and more experienced than you are.

3) Appearance: Make it a point to dress decently and professionally at all times. If you are unsure about the dress code, find out what is appropriate for your workplace.

4) Research: During your period as an intern, learn more about your employer, their competition, and additional information about the industry in general.

5) Be prepared to do some menial work: There are menial tasks in every job and doing your share promotes goodwill among coworkers and is also a test of your humility. You may be asked to run some errands unrelated to your work e.g. buying ‘Waakye’ for your superiors. Take these tasks in stride and focus on the bigger picture, but if these tasks are taking majority of your time, you should speak politely to your supervisor about your responsibilities and expectations of the internship.

6) Develop professional relationships with your supervisors and coworkers. Communicate with them and build a professional network. This is a key to help you start a career and learn of new opportunities.

7) Enthusiasm: If you're looking to be hired as a full time employee after your internship ends, exhibit the qualities of an enthusiastic worker during the short time you have to make a positive impact on both your co-workers and supervisors.

Finally, do away with all careless attitudes towards work and put an effort into doing your job and learning something new. Your skills and experiences, combined with the best of attitude exhibited during internships are most likely to get you full time employment at the organization of your choice.

By: Maame Aba Afful (Level 300, GIJ)

Source: gijonlinenews.com

I must applaud the management of AdomTV for the nice, interactive as well as edutainment programmes shown on their platform, most especially Kumkum Bhagya which has  caught the attention of many Ghanaians as they are glued to their seats between the hours of 7:30pm to 9:00pm every working day, which seeks to straighten the relationship lives of people, marriage couples and those planning to marry as well as bringing family together. It's a good initiative, which I know most people will agree with me.

However, Kumkum Bhagya seems to cause more harm than good, I must confess.



As mentioned earlier, the primary aim of Kumkum Bhagya is shown on T.V. to help married and would-be couples. But "kids" are now attracted and committed to this programme more than their books, and I wonder if these "kids" are "Marriage Counsellors".

A week ago, I asked a primary three student what she studied in school. This young girl fumbled and couldn't tell me exactly, what she learnt in school. Amazingly, this young girl narrated to me what happened previously on Kumkum Bhagya from A-Z and I was shocked.

Majority of "kids" are now lazy to read their books and it's affecting their academic performance in school all because of Kumkum Bhagya. 7:00pm - 9:30pm is a good time for "kids" to watch evening news and educative programmes, get to know what is happening in and around the world, and remain updated. But the introduction of Kumkum Bhagya on TV is making "our future" leaders lose interest reading, watching educational programmes and news bulletin(s) on TV is now a taboo for them. They are now committed to Kumkum Bhagya than their books, ignore their assignments and later sleep during classes hour(s) the next following day.

Interestingly, some students in this country don't know the names of our Ministers of States, not even the name of the name of our current Education Minister nor the President of Ghana but they can easily identify the names of all the Characters in Kumkum Bhagya.

Moreover, some scenes in Kumkum Bhagya which are not meant for children will be shown in full glare for them. And the possibility of them adopting these bad lifestyles such as excessive drinking, insults, etc from this programme is very high. Are they learning the right thing on Television?

It's awful and also surprising to see boarding students in some of our various senior high schools in this country, most especially the female students scaling the fence and dodging to town just to catch a glimpse of Kumkum Bhagya. Yes! You have the absolute right to say "Its their life" but let's not forget that, the introduction of Kumkum Bhagya has caused this canker.




In addition, most vibrant Christians have stopped going to church and evening prayers all because of Kumkum Bhagya. They've stopped attending evening prayers because, the time in which Kumkum Bhagya starts isn't favoring them to go and listen to the word of God or to pray. Some Pastors are also lazy to engage and teach their members because they won't come for them to leave in the middle of the service to watch Kumkum Bhagya. Lots of churches are collapsing these days and Pastors are afraid to complain, for fear of losing members. Others now resort to changing meeting days and time just to enable church members and prayer "warriors" watch Kumkum to their satisfaction.

Kindly conduct an "inquisitive checks" to Churches and prayer grounds between the hours of 7:30pm - 9:30pm (Mon - Fri), 12:30pm - 4:00pm on Sundays and you'll only find "Old men and women" worshipping and praising God, whiles those who are active with "strong bones" won't be found. It's either they won't go to church or they'll "vanish" immediately 7:30pm clocks.

You will quiz "How does it concern me?" Well, people are going wayward and you don't care?  Come On! This development isn't the best and should be curbed.

The youth will murmur when they're being asked to sing church hymns or tasked to give bible quotations during service. But, these same people won't find it difficult singing the theme song of Kumkum Bhagya neither will it be difficult for them to form Love quotes from the Telenovela. Wow!

Sadly, some parents encourage and even call their children to come and sit when Kumkum Bhagya starts. Others will turn their wards into narrators in case they are not readily available to watch Kumkum Bhagya.

As a parent, do you expect your brilliant kid(s) to study after school or complete and submit his/her assignment the next day when Kumkum Bhagya is ongoing? Certainly No!  You are rather destroying the future. These parents will blame  the devil when their children fail. Why blame the devil? When your actions and inactions caused it? I will also urge Parents to discourage their wards from watching Kumkum Bhagya and encourage them to read their books. Alternatively, channels can be passworded to discourage "kids" from watching programmes which are meant for the adults.



"Kumkum" has also compelled some workers to be extra lazy at work. Do you doubt me? Ok! Find time, visit any office or work place and you'll see majority of workers, especially the young ladies wasting their precious time discussing "Kumkum Bhagya", ignoring tasks' assigned to them. And when they lose their job or being fired from their post, "the old men and women in their family are always in trouble."

Some Teachers are fond of discussing the episodes of Kumkum Bhagya wiith their students during classes hours. Teachers doing that should please put a stop to it. It won't help but "kill" the zeal and spirit of our future leaders to sit and read.

In summation, I'm not saying the management of AdomTV to stop showing Kumkum Bhagya neither should it be banned from the screens since it has helped a lot of people especially those who are married.

However, "we" will be glad should there be a change of time in showing this popular T.V. series. This will prevent Christians from dodging church activities and also help students to find ample time and learn, so as to perform well in Class and during Exams.

There is always time for everything. Thank You.

Written by ;

Nambe Patrick,
Sunyani B/A
0508160521