President-elect John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to the continuation of Ghana’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy, dismissing claims that his administration would abolish it.

In an interview with Voice of America (VOA), Mahama emphasized that these assertions, primarily propagated by New Patriotic Party (NPP) officials during the election campaign, were unfounded political propaganda.

“Free SHS has come to stay, and it is not going anywhere,” Mahama stated. “Nobody is going to scrap Free SHS. What was said was political talk and gimmickry. We are going to maintain it, What we are going to do is get dedicated funding for it.”

He also assured the Basic school that has been left, with less attention would now receive the attention it needs.

The Free SHS Policy

Introduced in 2017 under the Akufo-Addo administration, the Free SHS programme provides free tuition, boarding, and meals for students in public senior high schools. It has enabled hundreds of thousands of Ghanaian youth, especially from underprivileged backgrounds, to access secondary education.

However, the policy has faced challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, inadequate infrastructure, and delayed release of funds, which have affected its quality and implementation.

Mahama’s stance is to preserve the core benefits of the programme while addressing these challenges. His vision includes securing a reliable funding mechanism to alleviate financial constraints and improve the quality of education under the scheme.

Mahama’s Resounding Victory

John Mahama’s commitment to Free SHS was a key part of his campaign message, resonating with many Ghanaians concerned about education access and equity. His victory in the December 7 elections was decisive.

The Electoral Commission declared him the winner with 6,328,397 votes, representing 56.55% of the valid votes cast. He defeated his closest rival, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP, who garnered 4,657,304 votes (41.61%).

This victory marks a return to the presidency for Mahama, who previously served as Ghana’s leader from 2012 to 2017. His campaign focused on themes of economic restoration, addressing corruption, and improving social programmes like education and healthcare.

The Free SHS policy was a contentious issue during the elections, with the NPP warning that Mahama would dismantle it if elected. Mahama’s firm rebuttal seeks to reassure Ghanaians, especially parents and students who have benefited from the programme.

The President-elect has pledged to work with education stakeholders to review and refine the policy, ensuring sustainable and efficient implementation.

credit;citinewsroom.com/VOA

UPDATE

DEMAND TO REVERSE AND REFUND TAX IMPOSED ON THE
COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL SUPPORT ALLOWANCE TO TEACHERS

We, the Teacher Unions had earlier in our letter dated November 21, 2024 called on
the Director General of Ghana Education Service (GES) to stop the tax imposed on
the above mentioned Allowance and refund same to teachers.

We hereby remind the GES of the Collective Agreement (CA) which enjoins both
parties to promote the growth and development of cooperation, trust, respect and
endeavour to uphold these values in the implementation of the CA.

It is therefore unfortunate that the GES has unilaterally deducted the tax from the
above mentioned allowance contrary to the agreement and promise that it would not
be deducted.

We hereby demand that the GES should as matter of urgency reverse the said tax
deduction and refunded same to teachers without fail.

We are impatiently waiting and hope to hear quick and swift action to our demand
Thank you.
Yours faithfully,
THOMAS T. MUSAH, GENERAL SECRETARY, GNAT
ERIC AGBE-CARBONU, PRESIDENT, NAGRAT
KING ALI AWUDU, PRESIDENT, CCT-GH
Distribution

PREVIOUS

The Teacher Unions in Ghana are demanding the government to address pressing issues that have been bothering them since the signing of the Collective Agreement in May 2024 ¹.

The Unions are concerned about the taxing of the Complimentary Digital Instruction Support Allowance, which was previously agreed upon not to be taxed ¹.

They are also seeking a transitional period for teachers who want to opt-out of the TVET service to GES without restrictions or fear ¹.

Additionally, they want an end to the forced implementation of the TVET service and the intimidation of teachers to attend Continuous Professional Development Workshops at exorbitant fees ¹.

The Unions have warned that failure to address these issues by November 30, 2024, may lead to a strike, which would disrupt the industrial environment ¹.

Main Issues:

-Taxing of Complimentary Digital Instruction Support Allowance

The government should not tax this allowance as previously agreed upon.

1. -Transitional Period for Opting Out of TVET Service*: Teachers should be allowed to opt-out of the TVET service without restrictions, fear, or intimidation.
2. – *Forced Implementation of TVET Service*: The Unions resist the forced implementation of the TVET service, which compels teachers to join the service without their consent.- *Intimidation to Attend Continuous Professional Development Workshops*:
3. Teachers are being intimidated to att toend workshops at exorbitant fees, which is a form of exploitation.Expected Resolution:
4. The Teacher Unions expect the government to respond to their demands on or before November 30, 2024, to avoid any industrial action ¹

Read

How Much Can a Forex Trader Make Hourly, Monthly and Annually ? A Look at High Earnings and Risks

Here’s a table summarizing approximate average Forex trader earnings across various countries and regions, based on available data and estimates. Please note that these are averages, as exact figures can vary greatly due to skill level, experience, and market demand in each region.

This table shows the earnings for Forex traders in the highest-paying U.S. cities, with hourly wages ranging from $63.03 to $71.94.

How Much Can a Forex Trader Make? A Look at High Earnings and Risks

As of October 22, 2024, the average annual income for a Forex trader in the United States stands at approximately $101,533, equating to about $48.81 per hour, or around $8,461 monthly. However, individual earnings can vary widely depending on experience, skill, and location. While most Forex traders earn between $57,500 (25th percentile) and $181,000 (75th percentile) annually, top earners in the 90th percentile can make up to $192,500. Such a wide pay range highlights significant opportunities for advancement and income growth with expertise and strategy.

Interestingly, certain U.S. cities offer considerably higher-than-average salaries for Forex traders. For instance, Diamond Ridge, AK, tops the list with an annual pay of about $149,644—47.4% above the national average. Skyline-Ganipa, NM, and Dimondale, MI, also offer lucrative compensation, making location a key consideration for aspiring traders.

Why Do Many Traders Lose Money?

Despite these enticing salary figures, the reality is that around 97% of Forex traders face substantial losses, with only 3% consistently achieving profits. The root causes are largely psychological—driven by emotions like greed, fear, and the desire for quick gains. Let’s explore these pitfalls:

1. Greed and Unrealistic Expectations
   Many traders enter Forex with the expectation of turning modest amounts into massive profits quickly. For example, a trader might start with $100 or $10,000, hoping to multiply it rapidly, pushing for aggressive gains like 100% monthly returns. Even skilled traders often experience this, managing impressive gains only to lose it all by chasing increasingly ambitious targets. Instead of working toward gradual and realistic profits, the pursuit of instant riches can lead to risky decision-making.
2. Fear of Loss
   Fear can be just as damaging as greed. Imagine opening a trade, and the position moves into a loss. Instead of cutting the losses with a stop-loss strategy, a fearful trader may hold on, hoping it will rebound. This emotional attachment to “not losing” often leads to even deeper losses as the trade moves further against them. For many, this fear of letting go of a losing trade results in significant damage, sometimes cutting an account’s balance in half or more.
3. Revenge Trading
   After taking a loss, some traders feel compelled to “win back” their lost money, often through increased, impulsive trades. This behavior transforms trading into gambling, where they’re chasing losses rather than following a sound strategy. Such “revenge trading” can be catastrophic, amplifying losses and eroding the trader’s discipline and capital.

Key to Success: Risk Management and Emotional Control

Achieving success in Forex trading is possible, but it requires strict adherence to risk management and emotional discipline. Professional traders, including banks and financial institutions, rarely suffer substantial losses because they have robust risk management strategies in place. They know when to trade, how much to trade, and are prepared to cut losses early when necessary.

For individual traders, the path to profitability lies in developing a consistent trading plan, managing risk meticulously, and keeping emotions like greed and fear in check. By following simple but disciplined trading rules, controlling risk, and handling emotions, traders can work toward realistic, sustainable gains. This approach is why only a small percentage succeed: mastering emotions is as challenging as mastering the markets.

Thinking of Pursuing Forex Trading?
If you’re interested in starting a Forex trading career or advancing in this field, explore job platforms like ZipRecruiter to find opportunities and stay informed about salary trends. Consider the location as well, as cities with higher-than-average pay, coupled with a lower cost of living, may offer more favorable conditions for success.

The Forex market has incredible potential, but remember: those who succeed do so by trading strategically, not impulsively.

Mfantsipim School Defeats PRESEC Legon to Qualify for Finals ;

JOIN US NSMQ LIVE UPDATES TELEGRAM

CSSPS Portal Login | www.cssps.gov.gh | SHS Placement Portal Update

WINNER OF 2024 NSMQ

WINNER ;

FINAL CONTEST

KETA SHS

MFANSIPIM SCHOOL

ST. AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE

CONTEST UPDATE – ONGOING

ROUND 1……………………………

ST. AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE ………………….   25

WESLEY GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL ………………….  21

GHANA NATIONAL COLLEGE ,………………..27

ROUND 2……………………………

ST. AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE ………………….  31

WESLEY GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL …………………. 22

GHANA NATIONAL COLLEGE ,……………….. 25

ROUND 3……………………………

ST. AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE ………………….  39

WESLEY GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL …………………. 27

GHANA NATIONAL COLLEGE ,……………….. 29

Problem of the day scores

St. Augustine’s College: 8/10
Wesley Girls’ High School: 5/10
Ghana National College: 4/10

END OF CONTEST

ST. AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE ………………….  52

WESLEY GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL …………………. 37

GHANA NATIONAL COLLEGE ,……………….. 49

Refresh  for live updates

PREVIOUS

End of Round 1
In a thrilling tie-breaker, Mfantsipim School edged out Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC) to qualify for the NSMQ finals!

Scores:

• Mfantsipim School: 23 points
• Presbyterian Boys’ Sec. Sch.: 21 points
• Osei Tutu SHS: 12 points

End of Round 2

Updated Scores:

• Mfantsipim School: 30 points
• Presbyterian Boys’ Sec. Sch.: 27 points
• Osei Tutu SHS: 10 points

#NSMQ2024 #NSMQSemis #Primetime

Problem of the Day Scores

• Mfantsipim School: 10/10
• Presbyterian Boys’ Sec. Sch.: 10/10
• Osei Tutu SHS: 10/10

Next up: @jupayofficial True/False Round

#NSMQ2024 #NSMQSemis #Primetime

End of Round 4

Current Scores:

• Presbyterian Boys’ Sec. Sch.: 53 points
• Mfantsipim School: 50 points
• Osei Tutu SHS: 27 points

Now entering the @GOIL_Official Super Bonanza Round!

#NSMQ2024 #NSMQSemis #Primetime

End of Round 5

Presbyterian Boys’ Sec. Sch: 53pts
Mfantsipim School: 53pts
Osei Tutu SHS: 27pts

We have a tie to break.

#NSMQ2024 #NSMQSemis #Primetime

Mfantsipim School: 56pts TIE-BREAKER

KETA SHSTS QUALIFIED EARLIER FOR THE FINALS

End of Round 1

Keta SHTS: 19pts
Tamale SHS: 14pts
Koforidua SHTS: 09pts

End of Round 2

Koforidua SHTS: 17pts
Keta SHTS: 16pts
Tamale SHS: 14pts

End of Round 3

Koforidua SHTS: 20pts
Tamale SHS: 17pts
Keta SHTS: 16pts

End of Round 4

Keta SHTS: 29pts
Koforidua SHTS: 27pts
Tamale SHS: 21pts

Problem of the day scores

Tamale SHS: 3/10
Koforidua SHTS: 3/10
Keta SHTS: 0/10

End of contest

Keta SHTS: 38pts
Koforidua SHTS: 27pts
Tamale SHS: 24pts

REFRESH FOR UPDATES 

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Nsmq quarter final fixtures 2024,
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CSSPS Portal – Login | www.cssps.gov.gh | SHS Placement Portal Update

Are you eagerly awaiting this year’s SHS placement results? Here’s the latest update on the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) portal and what to expect.

Currently, the CSSPS site is not accessible, leaving many parents and students concerned. The Ministry of Education recently announced that this year’s placement checking will be free—no need to purchase vouchers to view your placement results!

Official Sites for Placement Checking

The ministry has provided two official websites where you can check your placement status once they go live:

https://cssps.gov.gh

Because there is pressure the link might be slow for sometime

Common Error Messages

If you’ve tried accessing the CSSPS site, you might have seen messages like:

“Hmm. We’re having trouble finding that site.”

Or:

“We can’t connect to the server at cssps.gov.gh.”

This can be frustrating! But don’t worry—these errors occur because the site is not yet live. Once the placements are officially released, these sites will be fully operational. Until then, there’s no need to panic.

Stay Updated

For instant updates and accurate information, follow Seekers News GH or GESI 360. We’ll keep you informed the moment the portal is live and placements are accessible!

The Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS), is the system used by the Ghana Education Service to select qualified B.E.C.E graduates into the various  Senior High Schools (SHS), or TVETs in the Country. The system allows the student and parents to know the exact school among the choices made earlier that the ward or student got, the program offered, and the Boarding status. All you need to do is to visit the Seekersnewsgh CSSPS Placement portal

Waiting For Your Result to Display

At this time your heart keeps beeping and you might be praying since you do not know which school you are attending. Either your first choice or your last choice or no school.

Yes, some people will not be placed and will have to do self-placement.

When the system is opened all those things will be catered for.

Wait for the results window to pop up. If you are successful, the CSSPS placement checker print form option will appear.

Print your form.

Note; If the system is Busy especially when schools are released, the system becomes very busy.

One result might not come. You need to wait patiently for the system to become less busy for your results to show.

You should also check your scratch card pin and serial numbers, making sure you have entered the right numbers.

Some Results are also suspended especially those who have issues with their results or schools, you will need to go to the WAEC Office as the final Option. But waiting patiently can also be the solution.

HOW TO DO THE  SELF PLACEMENT

The enrolment in most schools has been low, and one of the issues is people are now doing the self-placement but seem to be finding it difficult.

To do the self placement here is what to do.

1. Visit the CSSPS website
2. Select check placement module
3. you will be directed to the self-placement module; Here you will be provided with a selection of schools to pick from based on your aggregate, choose your desired school as well as your desired residential preference.
4. confirm and print changes

What to do after printing your school documents.

After Printing your school placement documents, the next stage for you is to see the head of your Basic school for final endorsement.

It is when the documents are endorsed that you will have to visit the SHS or TVET you got for registration and collection of a prospectus.

The SHS or TVETs will also have a list of all students, their names, Full grades, and the courses they are coming to offer.
Visit your new school check the Notice Board, and make sure your name is there.

Can I Change my course when I go to the school(SHS)

Yes, Most schools allow you to change your course if you think you can not do it.

The only difficulty is not choosing science and trying to change your course to do science. Most schools will not allow you to do so.

Some schools will write entrance exams for those who wish to do science and if you pass you will be admitted into the science program.

The change of program can be done in the school, do not pay monies to people to change the course for you.

The various courses also have sub-courses or differences. eg

General Arts classes are divided sometimes into 5 or 6 or more depending on the school’s capacity

Some of the General Arts students will do Geography

Others will do French

Few will do Local languages etc

The science depending on the school will also have separate courses

Agriculture science

 Science without Biology but rather Technical

Science without Biology but rather a Geography

Some ICT etc.

You must know what you want to do in the future to be able to select the best combination.

During the Selection, most students follow their new friends to choose the combination and not because of what they want to do with it.

Proper counseling and parental guidance to be able to make the right choice.

Where the exam questions come from

Because they are new and young most of the examination questions are from the Basic school syllabus(JHS) concentrating on the BECE they wrote or something around those topics that came in their BECE.

You need to let your ward especially those going to do science read again the BECE they wrote, ask them if they can solve it now. Supervise them to get all the answers correct. They must keep learning.

If possible allow your ward to have some classes before school resumes. Most of the subjects offered will be new and will need a little bit faster  teaching than at the JHS. Help your ward. By giving them that foundation for the course.

Canada will sharply lower the number of immigrants it allows into the country for the first time in years, marking a notable shift in policy for the government as it tries to remain in power.

Canada will bring in 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025, 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027, down from 485,000 in 2024, according to a government source.

The number of temporary residents, meanwhile, will decrease by about 30,000 to around 300,000 in 2025, the source said.

The new targets were first reported by The National Post.

Canada has long prided itself on welcoming newcomers, but in recent years, the national debate around immigrants has shifted in part due to rising housing prices.

Many Canadians have been priced out of the housing market since interest rates started rising two years ago.

At the same time, a huge influx of immigrants has pushed Canada’s population to record levels, further boosting housing demand and prices.

The issue has become one of the most contentious in Canadian politics, with a federal election due no later than October 2025. Polls show a growing share of the population thinks Canada has too many immigrants.

There has been a backlash against newcomers and more reported hate crimes against visible minorities, advocates and community members say.

Migrant advocates slammed the change.

“We are witnessing one of the most egregious rollbacks of migrant rights in Canadian history,” Syed Hussan, spokesperson for the Migrant Rights Network Secretariat, said in a statement.

“Cutting permanent resident numbers is a direct assault on migrants who will be forced to remain temporary or become undocumented, pushed further into exploitative jobs.”

The office of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was not immediately available to comment.

The new immigration targets also mark a shift from the pandemic era when the government loosened rules on temporary residents to help fill labor shortages.

Last year, Canada had planned to bring in 500,000 new permanent residents in 2025 and the same amount in 2026.

As of the second quarter of 2024, there were 2.8 million temporary residents, including workers and students, in Canada, according to Statistics Canada.

In an August interview, Immigration Minister Marc Miller told Reuters “Canadians want a(n immigration) system that is not out of control.”

Canada’s Liberal government, trailing in the polls as some legislators seek to oust their leader, has been trying to regulate immigration.

Under Trudeau, Canadian immigration officials have approved fewer visas this year and border officials turned growing numbers of visa-holders away, data obtained by Reuters showed.

The government promises to reduce temporary residents’ share of the population to 5% over three years; it was 6.8% in April.

It also capped the number of international students Canada will bring in and tightened the rules on temporary foreign workers under a program that brings non-Canadians to the country to work on a temporary basis.

The program has come under fire for suppressing wages and leaving workers vulnerable to abuse.

Common Errors to Avoid in Transcript Applications to Universities, WES, Spantran, QECO, or for Personal Use

Applying for a transcript can be tricky if you’re not aware of some common mistakes that can delay or even block the process. At Seekers Consult (+233 550414552), we guide you through the steps to ensure a smooth and successful application, whether you’re sending your transcript to a university, an evaluation service like WES, or simply requesting it for personal use.

1. Waiting Until the Last Minute
Many people wait until the deadline is looming before applying for their transcript. This can create unnecessary stress and lead to avoidable delays. Always plan ahead and give yourself enough time to process your application, especially if you’re applying to universities abroad or evaluation services.

2. Not Knowing the Purpose of Your Application
Before applying, ask yourself why you need the transcript. Is it for a job, immigration, admission, or just to keep on file? Knowing the purpose of your application will ensure you meet all the necessary requirements.

3. Missing Crucial Details for University Applications
If you’re sending your transcript to a university, remember to include the university’s email address with your application. Failing to do so can cause delays or rejection of your transcript.

4. Forgetting the Reference Number for Evaluation Services
When applying for transcript evaluation services like WES, Spantran, or QECO, always include your reference number. Without it, your application won’t be processed.

5. Incorrect Address for Delivery
If you’re requesting a mailed transcript, double-check the address. A wrong or incomplete address can result in your transcript being printed but never delivered.

6. Handling Delivery Options
Know whether your institution allows direct delivery or if you need to use a third-party service like DHL. If you’re applying for a regular degree, use your student portal and ensure that all your information is accurate. If there’s an error, the transcript could be printed incorrectly without you knowing.

7. Seekers Consult Can Help!
If you’re requesting a transcript from UCC, UEW, AAMUSTED, or UG, you don’t have to travel back and forth to campus. Contact Seekers Consult at +233 550414552 for free assistance, and let us handle the process for you.

8. Applying Early to Avoid Delays
Unexpected issues like a university strike can halt all activities, including transcript processing. This is why applying early is crucial. Know the purpose of your application before you start, and avoid last-minute stress.

Conclusion:
Avoid these common errors, and your transcript application will go smoothly. If you need help, contact Seekers

Consult for a stress-free experience. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more helpful tips!

THE DIRECTOR GENERAL
GHANA EDUCATION SERVICE
ACCRA
Dear Sir,

WITHDRAWAL FROM PROFFESIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES (PLC)
The Professional Learning Community (PLC) programme activities in our schools is meant
to improve Teacher professionalism and to enhance teaching learning activities.
Unfortunately, it has become a means of victimization and stress to the already over
burdened Teacher.

According to section 20 of Act 651, i.e the Labour Law “in any undertaking every worker
shall be entitled to leave for not less than 15 working days with full pay in any calendar
year of continues service”.

What this means is that, the lowest ranked public service workers should enjoy not less
than 15 working days of leave annually. The number of annual leave days varies according
to the rank of the Public Sector worker.

Unfortunately, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has not clearly come out stating its clear
policy on Teachers annual leave hence the assumption that, the holidays are the leave days
of the Teacher.

Because of lack of clarity, some Heads of Schools, District Directors and Regional Directors
have introduced their own local measures to compel Teachers who are on holidays to be
present for PLC activities.

There are some cases where some Heads of schools without resort to the management of
the Ghana Education Service, placed embargo on the salaries of Teachers for failing to
participate in PLC activities while on holidays.

In the light of the above situation, NAGRAT calls on all it’s members to withdraw
immediately from all PLC activities in the schools until such a time that the

management of the Ghana Education Service clarifies the situation with clear
directives.

We also call on the Director General to come out with clear policy on PLC activities vis a vis
the holiday or rest period of teachers.

We call on the Director General to come out with clear policy with regards to Teachers
statutory leave as prescribed in law.

If the above unacceptable situation persists, we will have no option than to embark on
industrial action to push home our legitimate demands.
Yours faithfully,

ERIC AGBE-CARBONU
President
Distributions
1. All NAGRAT Council Members
2. All NAGRAT National Executive Members
3. All NAGRAT Members
1