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Professor Ababio’s interpretation of students academic achievement exposes his ignorance – Salifu Ojei

Published at 8:14pm

29-09-2024

Bu Saibu Terry

Development Educationist, Salifu Ojei has taken on Professor Ababio Oteng Martin over his comments to the the effect that Legon Students can no longer solve basic algebra question due to the implementation of Free SHS Policy.

According to Salifu Ojei, the professor’s interpretation of students academic achievement has rather exposed his ignorance of the school assessment regime in Ghana and lack of concept test reliability.

He noted that GES, the implementation urgency of the free SHS is not a mandated urgency to assess the students. Thereby, expressing shock over views held by the professor

Is the professor the problem or free SHS policy?

I have read with much dismay, an opinion by professor Ababio Oteng Martin(urban environmental studies) to the effect that ‘legon students can no longer solve basic algebra questions due to the implementation of free SHS policy”
I have tried in all humility, to understand the logic of the good old professor but to no avail. So what are the issues?
First of all, the policy of free SHS is implemented by the Ghana Education Service to ensure that ALL children of school age have ACCESS to Quality free Shs education. The policy has achieved, with out doubt its objective of expanding access (both economic and physical access) to all children.
On the access score, he admitted that indeed the policy has achieved much.
The second objective of free SHS hinges on quality. The indicators for quality education are wide in scope. In education science, the quality aspect of education is general refers to education outcomes. These out comes may be judged in terms of discipline nature of students and School academic achievement.
The thrust of the argument advance by the professor is to narrow the conservation on quality of education to academic achievement of students. Ordinary, this should be one of the parameters for judging any education policy. However, his interpretation of students academic achievement has rather exposed him as either being ignorant of the school assessment regime in Ghana or lacks appreciation of the concept of Test Reliability.
Prof should know that the implementing agency of free SHS, Ghana Education Service is not the assessment agency. WAEC has the mandate to assess all learner’s at the pre-tertiary level of education in Ghana. So, if Prof had told us that he conducted a research to test the Reliability of WAEC results using free SHS Students as case study and his findings suggest that the results are not reliable. Perhaps, we could engage in that discussion to ensure that there is consistency in students achievement.
Unfortunately, the professor has abandoned the basic tenets of academia which is guided by science and data to make sweeping generalisation.
In the absence of these, his thoughts on free SHS should taken with a pinch of salt.
Salifu Ojei (Development educationists

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Iddrisu Abdul-Majeed Declares Intent to Contest for Tamale South NDC Deputy Communication Officer‎

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Published: May 31 2026

Published at ; 8:12Pm

Story by Saibu


‎A dedicated party communicator and grassroots mobilizer, Iddrisu Abdul-Majeed, has officially declared his intention to contest for the position of Deputy Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Tamale South Constituency.

‎According to Mr. Abdul-Majeed, the decision follows extensive consultations with party elders, comrades, and faithful across the constituency. He said his aspiration is rooted in a strong commitment to the ideals and progress of the NDC, as well as a desire to contribute more effectively to the party’s communication efforts.



‎Mr. Abdul-Majeed brings years of experience in party communication and youth mobilization. Since 2019, he has served as a member of the Northern Regional Communication Team, where he has played a role in promoting the party’s message and engaging with supporters across the region. He believes the experience has equipped him with valuable skills in strategic communication, grassroots engagement, and political messaging.



‎His political journey also includes leadership within the Tertiary Education Institutions Network (TEIN). He served as a TEIN Organizer before rising to become President of the Nursing and Midwifery Training College, Kpembe chapter. During his tenure, he focused on mobilizing students, strengthening participation in party activities, and inspiring young people to become active contributors to the NDC’s growth.



‎Beyond campus politics, Mr. Abdul-Majeed is the Founder and President of the Tamale South Young Democrats, a youth-focused group that has actively supported the party’s campaigns and mobilization efforts, particularly during the 2020 and 2024 general elections.

‎At the grassroots level, he currently serves as the Branch Youth Organizer for the Almuqadas Polling Station in the Kakpagyili Electoral Area, where he continues to work to strengthen party structures, promote unity, and deepen engagement between the NDC and constituents.



‎Outlining his vision for the position, Mr. Abdul-Majeed stated that he aims to support the constituency’s Communication Directorate in enhancing the party’s communication strategy, effectively projecting the achievements and policies of the NDC, combating misinformation, and strengthening engagement with party members and the wider public.

‎He emphasized that unity, discipline, and effective communication remain critical to consolidating the party’s gains and positioning the NDC for greater success in Tamale South and beyond.



‎Mr. Abdul-Majeed has therefore appealed to delegates, comrades, and supporters to back his candidature as the party prepares for its internal elections.

‎“Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant, and united party that continues to serve the people effectively,” he said.



‎For inquiries, comments, or further engagement, Mr. Abdul-Majeed can be reached via telephone on 024 752 9355 or by email at iddrisuabdulmajeed13@gmail.com.

‎3y3 Zu! 3y3 Za!!

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Hon. Habib Soyalana commissions maternity ward, toilet facilities in Tolon Constituency

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Published by Inusah Dondaliya

Date: 31st May 2026

The Member of Parliament for Tolon, Hon. Alhaj Habib Iddrisu, has commissioned a maternity ward in Chirifoyili and two- 20 -seater toilet facilities in the Tolon township.

This advances his efforts and commitment not only to improving access to healthcare delivery but also to ensuring that sanitation practices in the Constituency are significantly enhanced.

In the company of constituency executives and Party functionaries, the Deputy Minority Chief Whip, commissioned the facilities for use, aimed at relieving the burden of the people in health and sanitation areas.

The projects form part of a broader commitment by the Tolon MP to meeting the social basic needs of the people, so as to enhance their livelihoods and socio-economic wellbeing.

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Hardi Pagazaa Clarifies Dagban’s Eid Tradition: ‘It Is Naa Jingli, Not Bugu Chugu’

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Published May 31 2026

Published at: 12:26Pm

Story by Saibu Terry

A Dagbon cultural advocate, Hardi Pagazaa, has sought to clarify misconceptions surrounding the ceremonial Eid celebrations performed by the Overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Yaa-Naa, emphasizing that the event is historically known as Naa Jingli and not “Buga Chugu” as widely portrayed on social media.

According to Pagazaa, several videos circulating online have been captioned as “Buga Chugu,” which some have interpreted as a “small gods festival.” He insists that no such festival exists in Dagbon and describes the characterization as historically inaccurate.

He explained that Naa Jingli is a centuries-old ceremonial tradition dating back to the reign of Naa Zanjina, the 17th Yaa-Naa of Dagbon, who is credited with introducing and publicly embracing Islam in the kingdom around the 15th century.

The ceremony commemorates the historic moment when Naa Zanjina accepted Islam and publicly performed prayers for the first time. Since then, Islam has remained deeply woven into the fabric of Dagbon’s traditional governance and culture.

Pagazaa noted that it is obligatory for the Yaa-Naa and paramount chiefs across Dagbon to observe at least the Eid prayers. This enduring relationship between traditional authority and Islam is reflected in the construction of mosques near palaces throughout Dagbon and the enskinment of Imams within the traditional leadership structure.

He further explained that the ceremonial Eid-ul-Adha observance traditionally takes place in the evening. Historically, the Yaa-Naa appeared at the prayer grounds dressed in full war regalia. According to him, this practice was permitted by Islamic scholars and Imams of the time as a security measure against potential attacks from rival groups, which were common during that era.

Over time, however, as Islam became more firmly established in Dagbon, the Yaa-Naa reportedly abandoned the use of war attire during prayers and directed other traditional leaders to do the same.

Pagazaa also highlighted the unique and revered position of the Imam in Dagbon society. He stated that, apart from the President of Ghana, the Imam is the only individual accorded the privilege of shaking hands with the Yaa-Naa, underscoring the spiritual significance of the office.

He said the continued observance of Naa Jingli serves as a powerful lesson in peaceful coexistence, demonstrating how respect for culture, patience, and sustained engagement can foster religious acceptance and social harmony.

The clarification comes amid growing public interest in Dagbon’s cultural and religious traditions, particularly following the circulation of videos from recent Eid celebrations involving the Yaa-Naa.

“Long reign Ndan Yaa-Naa. Long live Dagbon. Long live Ghana,” Pagazaa concluded.

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