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KNUST to Make AI Course Compulsory for All Students Next Academic Year

By
Ivy Hollys
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Prof. Rita Dickson, Vice Chancellor of KNUST
Prof. Rita Dickson, Vice Chancellor of KNUST

Starting from the 2025/2026 academic year, every student at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) will be required to take a one-credit course in Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Vice-Chancellor Professor Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson said the new course supports Ghana’s national AI strategy and KNUST’s goal of preparing students for a digital future. She explained that the Academic Board and Governing Council have already approved the course for implementation.

“Effective next academic year, every student will take a micro-credential course in AI through our e-learning platform. Students and staff who complete it will be certified to make them globally competitive,” Prof. Dickson said.

She made this known at the opening of the 11th KNUST Summer School on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. The three-day event is themed “Artificial Intelligence in Education.”

Since its launch in 2011, the KNUST Summer School has grown into one of the university’s main professional development programmes, expanding from 250 participants in its first year to hundreds today.

Prof. Dickson added that students can take the AI course at any stage of their studies, while staff who wish to enhance their digital skills will also be allowed to enrol.

“We cannot remain static. Our teaching methods must evolve to meet the demands of the modern world,” she said.

She also called for the responsible use of AI.

“We must learn to use AI tools and related technologies but not forget the ethics that guide their use. We must apply them wisely for the growth and development of our country,” she concluded.

Ex-First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings Dies, Aged 67

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings (Former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana)
Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings (Former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana)

Former First Lady of Ghana, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, has passed away at the Ridge Hospital in Accra at the age of 76. Family sources confirmed her death to CitiNewsroom.

Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings (Former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana)

Nana Konadu was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings and Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady. Her tenure spanned both military and civilian administrations led by her husband from June to September 1979 under the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC), and from December 1981 to January 1993 under the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC). She continued in the role during President Rawlings’ two constitutional terms from 1993 to 2001.

Beyond her ceremonial duties, Nana Konadu was a trailblazer in women’s empowerment and political activism. She founded the 31st December Women’s Movement, which championed gender equality and social development. In 2012, she broke away from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to form the National Democratic Party (NDP), under whose banner she contested the 2016 presidential election becoming the first woman to run for Ghana’s presidency.

Although her 2012 bid was disqualified by the Electoral Commission for failing to meet nomination requirements, she remained active in politics and advocacy.

In 2018, she published her first book, It Takes a Woman, a 331-page biography chronicling her life from childhood in 1948 to her years of public service. The book was intended as the first of four volumes offering “deep insights into her political activism and experiences.”

Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings leaves behind a legacy of resilience, leadership, and dedication to national development. Her contributions to Ghana’s political and social landscape remain deeply impactful.

Minority Informs Acting Chief Justice to Prepare for Vetting

By
Ivy Hollys
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Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin

The Minority in Parliament has called on Acting Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, to adequately prepare for his upcoming vetting by the Appointments Committee.

This follows the formal referral of his nomination by President John Dramani Mahama to the committee, announced by Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, during the House’s reconvening on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin raised concerns about the process leading to Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s nomination and assumption of office. He emphasized the need for transparency and thorough scrutiny.

“The one who has been nominated for the Chief Justice position must come prepared to earn the approval of the House. If you come unprepared and you do not have your judgments or we have questions about your role in your boss’s removal, you must answer. So, you have to prepare,” he stated.

The vetting process will allow the committee to examine the nominee’s judicial record, professional experience, and leadership capabilities before making a recommendation to the full House.

The Minority caucus has pledged to ensure the vetting is fair but rigorous, stressing the significance of the Chief Justice role in upholding the rule of law and judicial independence.

They underscored that the position must be entrusted to an individual who demonstrates integrity, competence, and a deep respect for the Constitution. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s vetting is expected to reignite national discourse on judicial appointments and institutional accountability.

Police Investigate Death of Senegalese Footballer in Ghana

By
Ivy Hollys
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Senegalese Footballer

The Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation into the mysterious death of a young Senegalese footballer who was found lifeless under unclear circumstances in Accra. The incident, which has drawn public concern in both Ghana and Senegal, has prompted collaboration between Ghanaian authorities and the Senegalese Football Federation to uncover the truth behind the tragedy.

Reports indicate that the deceased, a goalkeeper, had traveled to Ghana in search of sporting opportunities through the help of an alleged football agent. However, conflicting accounts about the events leading to his death have raised suspicion of possible foul play. According to police sources, the individual who reportedly transported the footballer to the hospital identified himself only as “Isa” and has since gone missing, further deepening the mystery.

Deputy National Communications Director of the governing party, Alhaji Kamal-Deen Abdulai, described the situation as “very sad,” urging the police to conduct a thorough investigation to dispel all doubts surrounding the young athlete’s death. He emphasized that Ghana remains a safe country and expressed hope that a transparent inquiry would help maintain Ghana’s image internationally.

Members of Parliament and civil society organizations have also called for improved security and hospital procedures to prevent similar occurrences. The Inspector-General of Police has assured both the Ghanaian and Senegalese public that the investigation will be pursued to its logical conclusion to ensure justice for the deceased and his family.

Jones Enyamesem Slams NDC for Ignoring Anti-LGBTQ Bill

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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The Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the Kwabre East Constituency, Mr. Jones Enyamesem, has criticized the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) for failing to keep its promise on the anti-LGBTQ bill.

Speaking on Orange Sunrise, he said the NDC, while in opposition, assured Ghanaians that it would pass the bill in the best interest of the nation. That promise, he noted, won the hearts of many voters and contributed to the party’s electoral victory.

Mr. Enyamesem expressed disappointment that after gaining power, the government appears to be “playing games” with the issue. He described the NDC’s current attitude as a betrayal of public trust and a clear sign of political inconsistency.

He stated, “The NDC wanted nothing but power, and they were thinking if they get the power, they will dilly-dally and see the four years pass without paying attention to the issue. They are not using the same energy they used while in opposition.”

He warned that the NDC has only three years left in office and may face the same punishment they dealt to the NPP if they continue to disappoint Ghanaians. According to him, the people are watching and will hold the government accountable at the polls.

Mr. Enyamesem further urged the NDC to apply the same level of pressure and energy they used when in opposition to push for the passage of the bill. He stressed that true leadership is measured by consistency, honesty, and the courage to fulfill promises made to the people.

He ended by calling on all political parties to uphold Ghana’s cultural and moral values, emphasizing that governance must reflect the will and principles of the citizens.

Nations Are Built by Ideas, Not Wealth – Bawumia

By
Ivy Hollys
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Bawumia

Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has said that great nations are built through innovative ideas from visionary leaders, not by how rich a person is.

Speaking in Dormaa on October 22 during his nationwide campaign tour for the NPP primaries, Dr. Bawumia said unemployment remains one of the biggest challenges facing Ghana’s youth. He stressed that solving it requires creative ideas, not personal wealth.

“Ideas build nations and ideas create jobs,” he said, dismissing claims by some of his fellow NPP flagbearer aspirants that they can create jobs simply because they have money.

Citing his achievements as Vice President, Dr. Bawumia pointed to the success of mobile money interoperability, a system that allows seamless transfers between mobile networks and bank accounts. He said this single policy has helped expand Ghana’s mobile money industry and create thousands of jobs.

“Before mobile money interoperability, Ghana had only 8 million mobile money users. Today, there are about 24 million users. This growth has led to over 900,000 mobile money vendors across the country,” he explained.

According to the Bank of Ghana’s July 2025 report, Ghana had 923,000 registered mobile money agents, with about 423,000 actively operating. Before interoperability, there were just over 107,000 agents nationwide.

Dr. Bawumia said these numbers prove that innovation and smart policy ideas can create lasting employment opportunities.

“Being a great leader and creating jobs is not about how much money you have in your pocket. It’s about your ideas. I have shown through my service as Vice President that I have the ideas to transform this country if given the chance,” he added.

Dormaa West NPP Chairman Predicts Victory for Dr Bawumia

By
Ivy Hollys
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Victory

Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Dormaa West Constituency, Mr. Kwame Owusu, has expressed unwavering confidence in the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, describing him as a leader well-positioned to secure victory in the upcoming general elections.

Mr. Owusu made the remarks during Dr. Bawumia’s visit to Dormaa West as part of his regional tour of Bono. He commended the former Vice President for his composed and mature approach to political discourse, particularly in the face of criticism. According to Mr. Owusu, Dr. Bawumia’s emphasis on unity and national development sets him apart from his political rivals.

“Dr. Bawumia’s campaign conduct reflects a deep understanding of leadership. He refrains from engaging in political insults because he recognizes the importance of national unity after the elections,” Mr. Owusu stated.

Reflecting on the party’s internal dynamics prior to Dr. Bawumia’s selection as flagbearer, Mr. Owusu noted that morale within the NPP was low. He credited Dr. Bawumia’s leadership with revitalizing the party’s confidence and electoral prospects.

“To be candid, the party was fragmented before Dr. Bawumia’s election. Had elections been held then, we might not have secured even 20 percent of the vote,” he remarked.

Mr. Owusu also praised the national executives for organizing an early congress, which he believes has provided the flagbearer with ample time to engage with the electorate and strengthen campaign efforts.

“We appreciate the foresight of the party’s leadership in holding an early congress. It has given Dr. Bawumia the opportunity to prepare thoroughly and connect with voters across the country,” he said.

He concluded by urging party members to remain united and dedicated as the campaign progresses, emphasizing that collective effort will be essential to achieving electoral success.

US Imposes New Sanctions on Russian Oil Giants to Pressure Moscow Over Ukraine War

By
Ivy Hollys
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Donald Trump
Donald Trump| Leon Neal/Getty Images

The United States has announced new sanctions on Russia’s two biggest oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil in a move aimed at forcing Moscow to negotiate peace in Ukraine.

The decision came a day after US President Donald Trump said a planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest had been postponed indefinitely. “Every time I speak to Vladimir, we have good conversations, but they don’t go anywhere,” Trump said.

While the economic impact may be limited, the sanctions mark a major shift in Trump’s foreign policy. He had previously avoided sanctions, saying he wanted Europe to stop buying Russian oil first. The Kremlin has dismissed the move, claiming Russia is “immune” to such measures.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the sanctions were necessary because of “Putin’s refusal to end this senseless war,” noting that the two companies fund the Kremlin’s “war machine.”

Rosneft and Lukoil export about 3.1 million barrels of oil a day, with key buyers including China, India, and Turkey. Oil and gas are Russia’s biggest exports, accounting for a major share of global supply.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the sanctions, calling them “a good signal” that could help bring about a ceasefire if more countries followed suit.

Trump said he hoped the sanctions would push Russia toward peace talks, calling them “tremendous” but adding they could be lifted if Moscow ended the war.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and EU leaders praised the move, saying continued pressure was key to bringing Putin to the negotiating table.

The sanctions come as fighting in Ukraine intensifies, with recent Russian strikes killing civilians, including children, in Kyiv.

GH¢2.2 Billion Lost in National Service Ghost Names Scandal

By
Ivy Hollys
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National service ghost names

Attorney General Dominic Akuritinga Ayine has disclosed that a forensic audit conducted by the Auditor General has revealed GH¢2.2 billion was lost in the National Service Scheme (NSS) ghost names scandal  a significant increase from the GH¢548 million initially uncovered in June 2025.

Addressing journalists, Dr. Ayine said prosecutions have begun against former Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Felix Gyamfi, and his deputy, Gifty Oware. Additional charges are being prepared for other officials and private vendors linked to the case.

According to Dr. Ayine, about ten separate cases are expected to be filed as part of the prosecution process. “We intend to use some of the implicated public officers and vendors as witnesses,” he explained, emphasizing that smaller offenders may be leveraged to secure convictions against major culprits.

The Attorney General described the scandal as one of the country’s largest corruption cases, involving large-scale embezzlement and money laundering through fraudulent salary payments to non-existent personnel. He assured the public that the government remains committed to recovering stolen funds and bringing all those involved to justice.

Dr. Ayine also noted that forensic audits have been requested for other state projects, including the National Cathedral, All African Games, and Bank of Ghana building projects, to ensure accountability. He urged Ghanaians to remain patient as investigations continue, stressing that “accountability takes time and resources.” He further stated that no political pressure has been placed on him, pledging to pursue all prosecutions without fear or favor.

Parliament to Discuss Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill This Week

By
Ivy Hollys
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Rev. John Ntim Fordjour

Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025 commonly referred to as the anti-LGBTQ+ The Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has announced that the bill will be presented to Parliament for its first reading between today and tomorrow.

He stated that the bill is already listed on Parliament’s Order Paper and described it as a matter of urgent national interest. “Any time between today and tomorrow, I don’t think it should go beyond today because it is already advertised and it’s an urgent matter,” Rev. Fordjour said.

He added that the bill is likely to be among the first items discussed when Parliament reconvenes at 2:00 p.m. Following its first reading, the bill will be referred to the Committee on Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs for further scrutiny.

Originally passed in 2024, the bill was halted by a legal challenge that prevented it from reaching the President for assent. It seeks to criminalize specific LGBTQ+ activities and promote what proponents describe as Ghanaian family values.

Supporters argue that the legislation reflects the cultural beliefs of the majority of Ghanaians and safeguard’s national identity. Critics, however, contend that it infringes on human rights and could damage Ghana’s international reputation.

Rev. Fordjour assured that Parliament will adhere to due process and remain responsive to public sentiment. “Parliament will follow the proper process and listen to public concerns,” he affirmed.

The bill’s reintroduction is expected to reignite national debate on issues of culture, morality, and human rights.

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