Hawk News GH

KDYAN Launches Campaign to Secure NDC Victory in Mion Constituency.

In a vibrant gathering held at Nalongni in the Mion Constituency of the Northern Region, the Kikpakpaan Democratic Youth Alliance Network (KDYAN) officially launched its campaign ahead of the 2024 general elections. The youth group, formed under the Mion constituency wing of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), aims to mobilize grassroots support to reclaim the parliamentary seat for the party and ensure a resounding victory for the party’s presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama.

Addressing the party supporters, Njorgnandam Simon Ugando, a Convener of KDYAN, outlined the group’s mission to advocate for the party’s agenda, defend its legacy, and drum up support for the upcoming elections. “Our focus is to champion the party’s activities and communicate the good works and policies of the NDC, whether in power or opposition,” Simon stated.

He emphasized that KDYAN will work tirelessly to canvass votes in Mion, stressing the importance of grassroots organization to secure victory for the NDC in both the presidential and parliamentary races. He further mentioned that the youth alliance would operate under the leadership of the constituency youth wing to ensure alignment with the party’s values and constitution.

Simon also highlighted that KDYAN, as a self-funded group, is committed to financing its activities to relieve the financial pressure on the parliamentary candidate, Alhaji Misbahu Adams Mahama, and the party leadership. He praised Alhaji Misbahu Adams for his generosity, calling him “a father for all” and expressed confidence in his leadership.

“We are not self-financing because we don’t need support, but to allow Hon. Misbahu the space to focus on other areas where his energy is needed. We believe this strategy will collectively contribute to our victory in Mion,” Simon added.

The event marked the beginning of a series of activities scheduled to rally support for the party, including mini-rallies, football games, peace walks, and door-to-door campaigns, all of which are planned to take place in the lead-up to the December 7, 2024, elections.

The youth group outlined a list of resources needed to execute their campaign, including party souvenirs, football equipment, transportation, and sound systems. Simon called on stakeholders and supporters of the NDC to contribute to the success of the campaign.

With enthusiasm and determination, KDYAN looks to build momentum within the constituency, ensuring that the NDC secures the Mion seat and plays a crucial role in the party’s national victory.

Education: IBM&J Embarks on Enrolment Drive

The Institute of Business Management and Journalism (IBM&J) Yendi Learning Centre has embarked on an enrollment drive at the Senior High Schools in the Eastern Corridor of the Northern Region. The enrollment drive targeted at final year students aims to showcase the institute to the students and the programs offered, duration, and benefits.

Interacting with students of Dagbon State Senior High Technical School in Yendi, the Vice Principal of IBM&J, Ms. Grace Taado Nambu, said the initiative is also to extend education opportunities to aspiring individuals in media and communication studies, as well as those seeking to enhance their skills through Diploma and HND courses.

“Journalism, Media Studies, and Communication are interdisciplinary fields that impact nearly every sector, offering students a wide range of opportunities upon graduation,” Ms. Taado noted.

She admonished them to consider enrolling in the school for its inclusivity, flexible fee payment options, and quality education, among others.

IBM&J is a private tertiary institution accredited by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) committed to providing high-quality and inclusive education in various fields. The school offers academic programs such as a Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies and HND in Communication.

The range of courses include Broadcast Journalism, Print Journalism, Online Journalism, Mass Communication, Advertising, Business Communication, Marketing, Social Psychology, Communication Skills, Investigative Journalism, Communication Research Methods, Ethical Principles of Journalism, and Language Use in Journalism, among others. Additionally, short courses such as DJ’ing, News Casting (Radio & TV), Programme Hosting, and Sports Presenting are available.

Enrolling in IBM&J offers benefits such as National Service placement, student loans, practical radio and TV training, field attachments, and flexible fee payment options.

The Vice Principal was accompanied by Mr. Mohammed Sule, the Yendi Centre Coordinator, and the Public Relations Officer of the School, Mr. Larry John.

Source: Simon Unyan

IBM&J Appeals to UDS for Review of HND Admission Policy

*IBM&J Tamale Learning Centre 3rd Congregation*

The Institute of Business Management and Journalism (IBM&J) Tamale Learning Centre has urged the University for Development Studies (UDS) to revise its admission policy for Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates. Currently, HND graduates are admitted to level 200 instead of level 300, requiring them to spend six years completing their first degree. This policy has been described by IBM&J management as demotivating for prospective students.

The appeal was made by Charles Ayendago, the director of the Institute, during the 3rd congregation held in Tamale on Saturday, July 13, 2024.

“We are appealing to the university management to relook the current policy and admit HND graduates to do a two-year top-up instead of three years. This current practice makes most students apply to other universities instead of UDS,” Ayendago stated.

Ayendago also highlighted that the existing policy has led to approximately 90 percent of their students opting for other institutions that offer admission to level 300. “We have petitioned the university on this matter, and as we speak, that letter is still on the Vice Chancellor’s desk. We are yet to receive a response. In today’s competitive academic environment, offering a two-year top-up option is crucial,” he said.

The graduation ceremony, themed “Harmonious Communication: From the Pen to Impact the Populace for Peaceful Election 2024,” saw 92 students graduate. Of these, 42 received Diplomas in Journalism and Media Studies, and 50 graduated with HNDs in Communication Studies. Additionally, around 80 students were matriculated to pursue a Diploma Programme in Journalism and Media Studies.

In his keynote address, Dr. Mahama Seth Sayibu, a Communication Consultant and Head of the Department of Communication and Media Studies at UDS, emphasized the importance of journalists making thoughtful decisions about what stories to report and how to report them to foster societal opportunities and avoid violence. He urged journalists, especially with the upcoming general elections, to verify their information before publication to maintain peace.

Dr. Sayibu described journalism as a noble profession and encouraged graduates to embody truth, honesty, diligence, devotion to duty, and patriotism.

Yapeiwura Dr. A.B.T Zakaria, Chief of Yapei in the Kusawgu Traditional Area and a former Registrar at UDS stressed the need for ongoing training and mentorship for journalists to enhance their skills and contributions to peace and harmony. He advised journalists to avoid sensationalism and complacency, aiming instead for excellence and impactful journalism.

Meanwhile, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central Constituency and chairman for the ceremony, praised IBM&J for its dedication to training media professionals in the northern sector and pledged to sponsor interested students from his constituency at the school.

Source: Simon Unyan

IBM&J: Alumnus Donates To Alma Mater

Tour Operations Manager at Royal Cosy Hills (Jirapa Dubai) in the Upper West Region Abdul-Aziz Pelpuo and a 2018 alumnus of the Institute of Business Management and Journalism (IBM&J), Tamale Learning Centre, has donated 20 bags of cement to his former school to support the construction of a new building. He also pledged to run a six-month free advertisement campaign for the school on two radio stations in the Upper West Region to boost enrollment. Additionally, Mr. Pelpuo committed to providing further support as needed to ensure the project’s completion.

IBM&J is a private tertiary institution accredited by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) committed to providing high-quality education in various fields. The school offered academic programs such as a Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies and HND in Communication.

Established in the North in 2014, IBM&J has graduated hundreds of students who have become industry professionals. The school has recently established a new learning center at Yendi receiving positive feedback indicating promising prospects.

Speaking in an interview with Hawknewsgh, Mr. Pelpuo explained that his gesture was motivated by the love, impact, and opportunities the school provided him.

“To me, the IBM&J Tamale Learning Centre is like the stone that the builders rejected but has become the chief cornerstone; without it, there is no foundation. I, alongside several colleagues, have experienced the system firsthand and benefitted immensely. We’ve been through hard times and difficult moments, yet we received enormous support and encouragement from the Director and school authorities” he said.

The former student also noted that the system’s flexibility during his school days was remarkable.

“Many of us were able to work while attending school, and the school allowed for flexible fee payment, even extending to post-national service when some couldn’t pay their fees. The school accommodated this because they are committed to providing accessible and flexible education for every child,” he stated.

Mr. Pelpuo urged all alumni to support their alma mater as a way of giving back.

“Attending IBM&J gave me a decent job, allowing me to take care of my family. As an alumnus and a product of the school, I felt compelled to give back for the opportunity to complete my education, graduate, and find employment. I’m proud of my school and will always contribute to its success,” he said.

Mr. Pelpuo thanked the school’s management for their continuous support and the positive impact they have had on many young people in the North. He also extended his appreciation to the management for establishing more learning centers in the region, demonstrating their commitment to making education accessible to everyone, regardless of their location.

He encouraged students in the northern parts of the country to consider IBM&J as the best media institute, highlighting its flexible fee payment system that ensures comfort and accessibility for all.

Source: Simon Unyan

IBM&J Yendi Learning Centre: Management Embarks On Publicity Tour

IBM&J Management with the Officials of the Ghana Prisons Service in Yendi

The management of the Institute of Business Management and Journalism (IBM&J) Yendi Learning Centre has initiated a publicity tour in Yendi aimed at engaging with both public and private institutions to introduce the school and its offered courses. The tour also seeks to create awareness about the institute and encourage individuals to pursue further studies.

IBM&J is a private tertiary institution accredited by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) committed to providing high-quality education in various fields. The school offers academic programmes such as a Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies and HND in Communication.

The range of courses includes Broadcast Journalism, Print Journalism, Online Journalism, Mass Communication and Advertising. Others are Business Communication, Marketing, Social Psychology, Communication Skills, Investigative Journalism, Communication Research Methods, Ethical Principles of Journalism, and Language Use in Journalism, among others. Additionally, short courses such as DJ’ing, News Casting (Radio & TV), Programme Hosting, and Sports Presenting are available.

Established in the North in 2014, IBM&J has graduated hundreds of students who have become industry professionals. The Yendi Centre, the second in the region after the Tamale Learning Centre, has received positive feedback during the publicity tour, indicating promising prospects.

Ms. Grace Taado Nambu, the Centre Principal, emphasized the tour’s aim to extend education opportunities to aspiring individuals in media and communication studies, as well as those seeking to enhance their skills through Diploma and HND courses.

“During the tour, management visited institutions including the Ghana Prisons Service, Ghana National Fire Service, the Ghana Immigration Service, and Ghana Police Services, among others,” she said.

Ms. Taado said the publicity tour will continue at all Senior High Schools and districts within the Eastern Corridor to create more awareness.

Enrolling in IBM&J offers benefits such as National Service placement, student loans, practical radio and TV training, field attachments, and flexible fee payment options.

Source: Simon Unyan

World Water Day: Young Girls In Northern Ghana Concerned Over Water Shortage And Its Impact On Menstrual Hygiene

*Children competing for water in a dried-up dam in Fuo-Tamale*

As the world commemorates World Water Day under the theme; “Water for Peace”, several young girls in the Fuo Electoral Area in the Sagnarigu Municipality of the Northern Region, have expressed grave concern over the acute water shortage in their community. They highlight the severe health implications, particularly concerning menstrual hygiene. These girls lament the Ghana Water Company Limited’s failure to provide sufficient water supply, compounded by the complete drying up of local dams.

The Fuo electoral area and many others in the Tamale Metropolis and Sagnarigu Municipality have endured months of tap closures due to the GWCL’s inability to meet water demands.

Speaking with _Hawk News GH, one of the affected girls Rafia Sulemana revealed that she often skipped school during menstruation due to the lack of water for proper hygiene maintenance.

The acute water shortage in the Fuo Electoral Area is impacting young girls’ ability to maintain proper menstrual hygiene. This directly relates to Sustainable Development Goal Six (SDG Goal 6), which focuses on ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all. The lack of sufficient water supply, compounded by the drying up of local dams, reflects the setbacks in achieving this goal. Additionally, water scarcity leads to school absenteeism among girls during menstruation, emphasizing the broader implications for education and gender equality, which are also addressed within SDG Goal 6.

“Myself and many of my peers refrain from attending school when menstruating because there is insufficient water to ensure proper hygiene. The intense heat exacerbates the situation, making it uncomfortable to stay in class when experiencing menstrual odor” Rafia stated.

In a plea for assistance, these young girls call on government and non-governmental organizations to provide clean and safe drinking water that aligns with the objectives of SDG Goal 6 in promoting human health, well-being, and sustainable development.

Source: Simon Unyan

N/R: Fuo residents beg for mechanized boreholes amid water crisis

A woman drawing water from a pit dug within the enclave of a dried-up dam

In a dire situation plaguing the Fuo community in the Tamale North Constituency of the Northern Region, the primary dam that supplies water has completely dried up, leaving thousands of households and residents without access to clean water.

For several months now, taps in the area have been shut off, intensifying the annual water shortage issue that the community faces. In a recent visit by RepublicOnline, it was observed that desperate measures have been taken by women, including pregnant women, who are forced to dig holes within the dried-up dam’s enclave to secure water.

These women endure the scorching sun, narrating that this desperate practice during the dry season is not a novelty, as their pleas for help have gone unanswered in the past. Despite being a periurban community, the recurring water scarcity has escalated, affecting not only domestic activities but also small trade businesses, as women redirect their time and effort in search of water.

Madam Adizah, a seven-month pregnant mother, expressed her distress over the situation, highlighting the health implications and the disruption of their daily lives. She pleaded with the government and NGOs to intervene by providing the community with safe drinking water.

“We need taps and merchandized boreholes in this community. We drink this water with animals, and there is a lot of dirt in it, which is a threat to our health. I am a businesswoman, but I had to put that aside to search for water, which has become my daily routine so that my kids can bathe and go to school,” Adizah lamented.

Another resident, Alhassan Fuseina, emphasized the dire difficulties they face, competing with animals for the little water left in the dried-up dam. She highlighted the unsanitary conditions, expressing the community’s desperation to secure clean water for their families.

Madam Fuseina revealed many residents resort to purchasing water from tricycle operators at significant costs, further exacerbating their financial burdens.

As the water crisis deepens in Fuo, the community issues a heartfelt appeal for immediate assistance from the government and non-governmental organizations to provide sustainable solutions and alleviate the suffering of its residents, especially women.

Source: Simon Unyan

IBM&J: Newly Elected SRC President Promises Effective Leadership

*IBM&J Newly Elected SRC President Alhassan Abdul Rasheed Nasara*

In a resounding victory, Alhassan Abdul Rasheed Nasara has secured the prestigious position of Student Representative Council (SRC) President at the Institute of Business Management and Journalism (IBM&J) Tamale Learning Center. Rasheed emerged as the top choice with an impressive 27 votes, a testament to his dedication and the trust bestowed upon him by the student body.

Following the official declaration of his victory, Rasheed attributed his success to unwavering hard work and the trust reposed in him by fellow students. Expressing his commitment to effective leadership, Rasheed emphasized that he and his colleagues are not mere managers but true leaders with defined objectives and goals.

“We are elected to be leaders, not managers; we are here to lead. With our clear objectives and goals, my colleagues and I will strive to give our best,” the newly elected President said.

Rasheed outlined a collaborative approach, stating that unity will be a hallmark of their administration. He pledged to be an attentive leader, open to diverse views, and committed to ensuring that the concerns of the student body are not only heard but also addressed promptly.

He highlighted the importance of working closely with the school management to resolving any issues that may arise, underscoring the need for a harmonious relationship between students and administration.

As newly elected executives assume their roles, the IBM&J Tamale Learning Center anticipates a period of positive change, leadership, and effective representation for the student community.

The new executives are;
Alhassan Abdul Rasheed SRC President, Kuori Abdul Samad SRC Secretary, and Alidu Mohamed Tawfik SRC Treasurer.

The remaining are Musah Tayiba as NUGS President, Akolgo Abigail as NUGS Secretary, Abane Jessica,
NUGs Treasurer, and Aduko Gladys as
Women’s Commissioner.

Source: Simon Unyan

Media Associations Call for Blacklisting of Yendi MP Following Assault on Journalist

*Member of Parliament for Yendi Farouk Aliu Mahama*

In a unified stance against attacks on journalists, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), and the Private Newspaper and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) have issued a directive urging their members nationwide to blacklist the Member of Parliament for Yendi, Mr. Farouk Aliu Mahama.

The decision, announced at a joint press conference held in Accra on Tuesday, gained support from the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA). President of the GJA, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, addressing the press, emphasized that all media houses must withhold any coverage, interviews, or media attention from Farouk Aliu Mahama until further notice.

Dwumfour stated, “Apart from him being insensitive to the work of journalists (as demonstrated during the Parliamentary Primaries), there are vigilantes around him who may harm you. So, just steer clear of him and his thugs.”

The GJA President further urged the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) to seek justice by sanctioning the lawmaker and his associates for assaulting the news reporter, Mohammed Aminu Alabira, during the party’s recent parliamentary primary in the Yendi constituency.

Farouk Aliu Mahama, the NPP Yendi legislator, had previously denied attacking Mr. Alabira and demanded an apology from him and the Ghana Journalists Association. He also issued a demand notice of GH₵500,000 each or threatened legal action.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Dwumfour called on the Ghana Police Service to expedite investigations and arraign the perpetrators before the court, with the added testimony of law enforcement officers who witnessed the incident.

Lamenting the increasing attacks on journalists, Dwumfour stated that within one month in 2024, two journalists have been assaulted by politically exposed individuals without provocation. He also highlighted that more than ten journalists were assaulted in the last quarter of the previous year, and records show that from 2021 to date, four journalists spent days behind bars with no apparent legal reasons.

Dwumfour appealed to the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akufo Dampare, to demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the safety of journalists nationwide. He also called on the Ministry of Information to intensify efforts against unwarranted attacks on journalists, urging the ministry to issue statements addressing recent cases.

Source: Simon Unyan

PAORP-VWC’s Educational Initiative Empowers 150 Children in Gushegu District

*150 orphans and single-parent schoolchildren receive educational support*

The Pan African Organization for Research and Protection of Violence on Women and Children (PAORP-VWC) has taken a significant step in supporting the education of orphans and single-parent children in the Gushegu District of the Northern Region. In a recent initiative, PAORP-VWC donated essential learning materials to over 150 carefully selected beneficiaries from basic schools within the district.

The donation, comprising school bags, notebooks, pens, and pencils, aims to alleviate the financial challenges on families and provide these vulnerable children with the tools they need for their studies.

Beneficiary schools are
Yanwugu R/C Primary School, Zantili R/C Primary School, and Gbambu M/A Primary School.

Speaking to the media after a presentation of the items, the Country Director of PAORP-VWC, Dr. Peter Ndonwie, emphasized the importance of such support in early childhood and brain development, stating that education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty.

“Empowering these vulnerable children with the necessary learning materials not only alleviates financial burdens but also creates an enabling environment for academic success,” Dr. Ndonwie remarked.

Highlighting the collaborative nature of this initiative, he called for increased efforts and partnerships to address the challenges faced by vulnerable children while advocating for education and the protection of women’s and children’s rights.

Dr. Ndonwie expressed gratitude to Plan International Ghana and Global Affairs Canada for their funding support, emphasizing PAORP-VWC’s commitment to its mission.

“PAORP-VWC is dedicated not only to providing essential school materials but also to collaborating with relevant authorities in the area to ensure continuous support and guidance throughout the educational journey of these children,” he stated.

Headteachers of the beneficiary schools expressed their appreciation to PAORP-VWC and its funding partners, acknowledging that this initiative would not only ease the financial burden on single mothers but also create a conducive learning environment for the pupils.

Some of the beneficiary students also thanked the PAORP-VWC for their intervention noting that it is a step in the right direction, ensuring inclusion and equitable education for all in the area.

The PAORP-VWC remains steadfast in its commitment to research and protection against violence towards women and children, advocating for their rights and well-being.

Source: Simon Unyan