11th August, 2016

The Ghanaian Times has added its voice to the call to end the protocol list system in the educational sector. According to the paper, the protocol list system, which is an escape route for children of influential figures from featuring on the placement list, is denying students from deprived schools the opportunity to attend first class schools. It is against this background that the paper commends the signal sent by the Minister of Education, Prof Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang that the Ministry will not tolerate any protocol list request for placement of children of influential figures in well-endowed high schools this year. The Times believes that although stopping the act will not be an easy task, it will ensure fairness if it’s done.

The Business Finder calls on government to move beyond assurances and demonstrate its commitment to the IMF agreement to restore investor confidence in the Ghanaian economy. The paper says the passage of the Bank of Ghana Amendment Bill, which was in breach of the IMF agreement with Ghana coupled with other infractions are already sending negative signals to investors. The Business Finder is therefore not surprised that government is currently in talks with the IMF to reassure it of the country's commitment to the zero financing agreement and its preparedness to restrain its expenditure in an election year. 

"Dealing with dubious and honorary academic titles" is how the Daily Graphic titles its editorial. The Paper says it is not against the conferment of honorary degrees to members of society who deserve that honour. However, apart from the fact that some institutions are not qualified to award such honours they are also unaccredited institutions. The paper shares in the worry of the National Accreditation Board but says it is sad the Board lacks the legal backing to prosecute institutions and persons behind the fraudulent honours. The paper believes that the personalities who distinguish themselves in various disciplines or facets of society must be honoured, but even if that honour comes it still remains just an honour.

GBC