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‘Let’s call it now – the title race is over, Liverpool will be champions’

Liverpool’s rain-soaked, jubilant supporters called it with 90 seconds remaining of a statement win over Manchester City.

“We’re going to win the league” echoed around a sea of empty sky blue seats at Etihad Stadium, as Liverpool closed out the win that leaves them 11 points clear at the top of the table.

And they are right. Liverpool are going to win the league.

Head coach Arne Slot’s seamless transition from Jurgen Klopp will be rewarded with the prize Liverpool’s great old managers such as Bill Shankly, Bob Paisley and Joe Fagan coveted above all others, the “bread and butter” as they called it.

The 2-0 win here, bolted on to Arsenal’s loss at home to West Ham on Saturday, means that, although there can be thousands of words spent on dancing around the subject, this season’s title race is done and dusted.

Etihad Stadium has witnessed many title celebrations in recent seasons. This looked and sounded like another one. The difference being this was Liverpool’s fans chanting “hand it over” rather than the playing out of another addition to Pep Guardiola’s roll of honour.

The race may not be run mathematically and football can be a strange, unpredictable game. It is not, however, so strange and unpredictable that a remorseless Liverpool team who have lost only one league all season, at home to Nottingham Forest in September, will lose an 11-point advantage with only 11 matches left.

And seven of those games are at Anfield. The game is up for Arsenal. Their game in hand carries decreasing significance.

Liverpool can now afford some slip-ups, not that Slot will want that, and even if they do, Arsenal will have to win almost every game, something that looks beyond a side with a propensity to slip under pressure.

Source: BBC

Rangers sack Clement following loss to St Mirren

Rangers have sacked manager Philippe Clement following Saturday’s home defeat by St Mirren, with the side 13 points behind Scottish Premiership leaders Celtic.

The Belgian, 50, had been under pressure this season as his team struggled to match Celtic’s consistency and this month’s Scottish Cup loss at home to Queen’s Park increased supporter unrest.

Off the pitch, 49ers Enterprises are negotiating a potential takeover of Rangers, which could be completed between April and June.

“The club would like to put on record their sincere thanks to Philippe for his hard work and dedication during his spell in charge,” Rangers said.

“A further update from the club will follow in due course.”

Clement joined Rangers in October 2023 following Michael Beale’s 10-month reign, soon winning the League Cup and leading the team to the top of the Premiership.

However, a poor record against Celtic contributed to missing out on last season’s league title and Scottish Cup.

This term, league defeats by Celtic, Kilmarnock, Aberdeen and St Mirren put Clement under scrutiny and Rangers missed out on another League Cup triumph by losing the final to Celtic on penalties.

Rangers’ league victory over Celtic at Ibrox in January temporarily eased the pressure but further dropped points at Hibernian and Dundee as well as this month’s home losses ultimately sealed Clement’s fate.

After Hibs had beaten Celtic earlier on Saturday, St Mirren’s win was their first at Ibrox since 1991 and came less than two weeks after Championship side Queen’s Park knocked Rangers out of the Scottish Cup.

Source: BBC Sports

First evictions rock Flora Tissues Atinka Kids Dance season 3: Daavi Ba, Berla, others out

The tension was so intense at the Sika Hall of the Tobinco Media Group in Accra as the first eviction of Flora Tissues Atinka Kids Dance Season took place. 

For some contestants, parents, and supporters, it was an emotional moment as five young dancers saw their journey cut short due to low public votes and judges’ scores.  

Contestants Erica Ackah (23), Daavi Ba (41), Bela Baby (29), MMG (36), and Georgia (25) were eliminated from the competition, marking the end of their dreams to win this season’s title.  

With 45 contestants still in the running, the show’s producer, Afrifa Peasah, reminded the public that their votes hold the key to keeping their favorites in the competition.  

“We have 45 contestants more. To enable your contestant to reach the final and possibly win the contest, we encourage the public to vote for them. The judges only carry 50% of the power, which is influenced by the contestant’s performance, but the other 50% is in your hands as viewers, and that can only be expressed through voting,” he emphasized.  

To keep a contestant in the competition, viewers can vote by dialing *713*203# and entering the contestant’s number on all networks.

As the competition heats up, fans are urged to rally behind their favorite young dancers to ensure they make it to the grand finale.

Ghana l Atinkaonline.com l Ebenezer Madugu

Madina MP partners Morris Brown College to boost education opportunities for Ghanaian students

In a bold step towards bridging Ghanaian students with international academic opportunities, the Member of Parliament for Madina, Hon. Francis-Xavier Sosu, has secured a landmark partnership with Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. 

This collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to provide Ghanaian students with access to world-class education and career development programs.  

Hon. Sosu brokered this partnership during a parliamentary visit to the United States, where he participated in the Black History Month celebrations and engaged with key academic and policy leaders. 

His visit, beyond strengthening diplomatic ties, focused on creating pathways for Ghanaian students to gain internationally recognized qualifications without the burden of relocating abroad.  

Through this collaboration, Ghanaian students will now have the opportunity to enroll in one-year certificate programmes in fields such as Non-Profit Management, Entrepreneurship, eSports Performance, and Hospitality Management —all offered by Morris Brown College, a historically Black institution with a legacy of resilience and academic excellence since 1881. 

Students can pursue these courses either online or in-person, with potential travel opportunities to the USA facilitated by the college.  

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony on February 21, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia, the President of Morris Brown College, Dr. Kevin James, commended the initiative, noting that this partnership would break educational barriers for Ghanaian students.

He thanked Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, for supporting Hon. Sosu’s participation in the visit.  

The Dean of the Business Faculty at Morris Brown College, Dr. Yaw Amponsah Adoo, emphasized the transformative impact of the agreement, stating that Ghanaian students would now have access to US-accredited certifications that could enhance their career prospects both locally and internationally.  

For Hon. Francis-Xavier Sosu, this initiative aligns with his broader Madina Centre for Education and Policy, an educational project under his office aimed at promoting education, knowledge exchange, and skills development. 

It also contributes to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and supports former President John Dramani Mahama’s vision, as outlined in the NDC Manifesto, to establish a Prior Learning Certification/Step-Up Certification (SEC) programme for artisans in the informal sector.  

“This partnership is not just for Madina but for all Ghanaian students who aspire to gain internationally recognized qualifications while staying rooted in their communities. It is about giving our youth the tools to compete on a global scale,” Hon. Sosu stated.  

This development marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s education sector. With a growing demand for specialized skills in the global job market, partnerships like this serve as a beacon of hope for students seeking quality education at an affordable cost.  

As the collaboration between Morris Brown College and the Madina Centre for Education and Policy takes shape, it signals a future where Ghanaian students are not limited by geography but empowered by knowledge, skills, and global opportunities.

Ghana l Atinkaonline.com I Ebenezer Madugu 

Former Education Minister, Ameyaw-Akumfi arrested

Reports reaching Atinkaonline.com is that a Former Education Minister and Chairman of the Public Procurement Authority Board, Prof Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi has been allegedly arrested by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).

 He is currently at Kawukudi, near Nima in the Greater Accra region.

Although reasons for his detainment are not yet known, the platform will update the public about details soon.

Ghana l Atinkaonline.com

Alajo Development Queen installed : Chief touts achievements at 5 Years anniversary 

A Business Consultant, Entrepreneur and PR Expert, Naa Ayeley Osongor I has been installed as the Development Queen of Alajo.

She is expected to help the Chief and Elders of the area to bring development.

The coronation of the Development Queen was held on Saturday, February 22,2025 at the residence of the Alajo Chief in Accra.

The occasion was also done during the 5th anniversary celebration of the Alajo Chief, Nii Armah Ajoor II.

Chiefs and queens, dignitaries from far and near graced the occasion to support the Alajo Chief and the Development Queen.

The Development Queen, Naa Ayeley Osongor I also accepted her new position wholeheartedly.

She thanked the Chief, Queenmother, elders and the people of Alajo for welcoming and accepting her into the family.

Naa Ayeley Osongor I pledged to continue all developmental projects started in the area, highlighting the need to bring improvement to markets, lorry stations, schools amongst others.

“We have already started embarking on a number of projects. We have done skills training for the youth. We equip them with skills in making pastries, beading, soap making and others and we will organize another one next month,” she said.

Naa Ayeley Osongor I again said they have spoken with banks and some institutions to get capital injections for the women to invest in their businesses, adding that beyond the capital support, they will organise a financial literacy programme for the market women to help them manage their capitals and profits well.

At the event, the achievements of the Alajo Chief, Nii Armah Ajoor were mentioned.

Before he was installed, there was division between the political Council of Alajo but Nii Armah Ajoor II has been able to bring unity between all parties of the political Council of Alajo.

He Lobbied for the construction of an astroturf pitch in the area and also organized quizzes for over 5000 students in the area to motivate them to learn harder.

Again, the Alajo Chief has helped secure jobs for the youth of Alajo in the various sectors in the country.

Because of his support, there are a lot of foreign students in Alajo who feel save and pay reverence to the Chief.

Nii Armah Ajoor II also noted that he lobbied to construct drains and reconstructed all the bad roads in the area amongst others.

However, he observed that there is no proper market and lorry stations inside Alajo.

He called on all residents and those who have lived in Alajo in the past to support him financially to establish a market and a lorry station for Alajo, saying the two will uplift the face of Alajo.

The also Chief called on all residents, to unite to build a proper market and lorry station inside Alajo, saying the this will bring development and uplift the face of Alajo.

Ghana l Atinkaonline.com l Porcia Oforiwaa 

GJA President promises to partner with Alajo Chief to build a lorry station

The President of Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Mr Albert Kwabena Dwumfour has promised to support the Chief of Alajo, Nii Armah Ajoor II to build a lorry station inside Alajo.

This was after the Chief called on the people of Alajo to come together to support him build a lorry station and a proper market inside Alajo.

Mr Dwumfour made the promise at the 5th anniversary celebration of the Chief since he was installed and the coronation of the Development Queen of Alajo, Naa Ayeley Osongor I on Saturday, February 22, 2025.

The GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour who was once a resident of Alajo confirmed that there was some form development at Alajo, casting his mind back to challenges the area faced in the past.

However, he observed that there was no proper lorry station in the area, a situation that frustrated drivers, passengers and pedestrians.

He therefore assured to partner with the Chief to build a lorry station for the people, expressing belief that at the 6th anniversary of the Chief, they will open the lorry station.

On the other hand, the Chief of Alajo, Nii Armah Ajoor II thanked God for protection and resilience despite challenges faced since his installation.

Touting a few of his achievements, he mentioned that he lobbied for all the roads and drains to be constructed in Alajo.

He also lobbied for the constructed of an astroturf pitch and organized quizzes for over 5,000 students to motivate them to learn harder to improve their studies.

Again, he has secured jobs for the youth of Alajo at the various sectors of the country.

Despite the successes, he said there a lot of things he and elders people want to do to uplift Alajo.

He noted that Alajo does not have a lorry station, adding that the market in Alajo was not encouraging.

Nii Armah Ajoor II called on all those who live or have lived in Alajo to come together to support him build a new market, noting that he has already made a plan for that.

He is of the belief that God will guide them through to build a market and a lorry station, saying that the two will uplift the face of Alajo.

He also observed that there are influential persons, wealthy persons in Alajo, calling on them to also support build Alajo.

Meanwhile, the Chief also called on all residents to come together in unity to bring development to Alajo.

Ghana l Atinkaonline.com I Porcia Oforiwaa 

Dr. KB Tandoh inspires staff to embrace power of change & innovation as he steps down as Dep. Director-General of GES

The immediate past Deputy Director-General (Quality and Access) of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Dr. KB Tandoh has urged the staff of the Ghana Education Service to always embrace the power of change and innovation in life as he steps down from his post.

According to him, that will be the only way they will be opened to new ideas and technologies.

Dr. KB Tandoh shared this inspiration with the GES staff when he stepped down as the Deputy Director-General(Quality and Access) of the Ghana Education Service (GES), after six and a half years of service. 

In a heartfelt message to his colleagues, Dr. Tandoh expressed gratitude, shared reflections on his tenure, and offered words of encouragement for the future.

“My friends, we’ve shared countless hours, faced numerous challenges, and celebrated significant victories together. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most dedicated and talented individuals in the Ghana Education Service,” Dr. Tandoh wrote. 

He emphasized the “passion for education, commitment to excellence, and unwavering belief in the potential of our students” demonstrated by his colleagues.

During his tenure, Dr. Tandoh played a key role in implementing significant educational initiatives, including the Double Track system and the Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP). 

He expressed “immense pride” in the transformative changes achieved under his leadership.

Dr. Tandoh offered five key points of encouragement to his former colleagues as a way to show his appreciation to them.

1. *Embrace the Power of Collaboration*: He stressed the importance of teamwork and shared ideas.

2. *Never Lose Sight of the Vision*: He reminded colleagues of the impact of their work on students’ lives.

3. *Embrace Change and Innovation*: He encouraged openness to new ideas and technologies.

4. *Carry the Torch of Hope*: He urged colleagues to remain optimistic in the face of challenges.

5. *Believe in Your Potential*: He emphasized the ability of his colleagues to achieve great things.

Dr. Tandoh concluded his message by urging his colleagues to “unreservedly support Prof. Davis, our new DG, to carry out his mandate and lead the GES to greater heights.” 

He used the opportunity to congratulate Dr. Munawaru Issahaque on his appointment as the new DDG Q&A. 

He finally thanked the staff for their friendship, dedication, and unwavering commitment to their shared mission.

Ghana l Atinkaonline.com l Vincent Kwofie 

Understanding Alcohol: Its Effects, Dangers, and Prevention

Alcohol, specifically ethanol, is a psychoactive substance widely consumed across the globe. 

While it is often used for socialization and relaxation, alcohol has significant impacts on health, especially when misused. 

This article explores the effects of alcohol on different age groups, its association with cancer, documented cases of its impact, associated dangers, and preventive measures.

Effects of Alcohol on Different Age Groups

1. Minors (Adolescents):

Cognitive Development: Adolescents’ brains are still developing, and alcohol consumption can impair learning and memory more significantly in teens than in adults.

Risk Behaviors: Underage drinking is associated with increased risks of drunk driving, violent behavior, and being victims of sexual assault.

2. Adults:

Health Risks: Excessive alcohol use is a leading preventable cause of death in the United States, with about 178,000 deaths annually. These deaths result from both long-term consumption and acute incidents.

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD): In 2023, approximately 28.9 million people aged 12 and older in the U.S. had AUD, representing 10.2% of this age group.

3. Older Adults:

Increased Sensitivity: Aging reduces the body’s ability to metabolize alcohol, leading to higher blood alcohol concentrations and prolonged effects.

Health Complications: Alcohol can exacerbate conditions common in older adults, such as high blood pressure, osteoporosis, diabetes, and memory issues.

Injury Risks: Impaired coordination from alcohol increases the likelihood of falls and fractures among the elderly.

Alcohol and Cancer

Alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for several types of cancer. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services identifies alcohol as a causal factor in at least seven types of cancer:

Breast Cancer (in women): Even low levels of alcohol intake have been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.

Colorectal Cancer: Regular alcohol consumption elevates the risk of cancers in the colon and rectum.

Esophageal Cancer: Alcohol is a major risk factor for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Liver Cancer: Chronic alcohol use can lead to liver cirrhosis, which significantly increases liver cancer risk.

Mouth and Throat Cancers: Alcohol consumption raises the risk of cancers in the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx.

The risk of developing these cancers increases with the amount of alcohol consumed over time. Notably, combining alcohol consumption with tobacco use further amplifies the risk of cancers, particularly in the mouth and throat regions.

Documented Cases and Statistics

Global Impact: In 2019, alcohol consumption was responsible for approximately 2.6 million deaths worldwide, with 1.6 million due to noncommunicable diseases, 700,000 from injuries, and 300,000 from communicable diseases.

U.S. Statistics: Alcohol use disorder contributes to about 95,510 deaths annually in the United States.

Dangers Associated with Alcohol

Health Risks: Chronic alcohol use increases the risk of liver diseases, cardiovascular problems, certain cancers, and weakened immune function.

Mental Health: Alcohol misuse can lead to or worsen mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.

Social Consequences: Excessive drinking can strain relationships, lead to job loss, and result in legal issues.

Prevention and Recommendations

Awareness and Education: Public health campaigns can inform individuals about the risks of alcohol misuse and promote healthier behaviors.

Screening and Intervention: Regular screening for alcohol use in healthcare settings can help identify at-risk individuals and provide early interventions.

Policy Measures: Implementing policies such as taxation, restricting sales, and enforcing legal drinking ages can reduce alcohol-related harm.

Support Services: Access to counseling, support groups, and treatment programs is essential for individuals struggling with alcohol dependence.

Personal Reflection

The pervasive nature of alcohol in social settings often downplays its potential dangers. Recognizing the profound impact alcohol can have on health across all age groups is crucial.

By fostering a culture of awareness and support, society can mitigate the adverse effects of alcohol and promote healthier lifestyles.

Ghana l Atinkaonline.com l Jessie B.A. Okae

Dr. Kwabena Bempah Tandoh Steps Down as Deputy Director-General of GES_Leaves Legacy of educational Innovation 

After more than six and a half years of transformative service, Dr. Kwabena Bempah Tandoh, is stepping aside from the role of Deputy Director-General (Quality and Access) of the Ghana Education Service (GES), effective February 21, 2025.

During his tenure,  Dr. Tandoh played a crucial role in enhancing teaching and learning, improving educational quality, and expanding access to education for all Ghanaian children.

Reporting directly to the Director-General, Dr. Tandoh provided supervisory oversight for four key divisions within the GES, ensuring alignment with the Education Strategic Plan (ESP 2018-2030).

His responsibilities included research, assessment, monitoring, and evaluation, all critical to the advancement of Ghana’s education sector.

Key achievements during Dr. Tandoh’s tenure include:

● Double Track System: Serving as the Chief Technical Officer in the conceptualization, development, and design of the Double Track System for Senior High Schools (SHS), a critical component of the Free Senior High School Policy. He also oversaw its implementation at the GES.

● Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP): As Chief Technical Officer, Dr. Tandoh led the conceptualization and design of the $218.7 million USD GALOP. He was also a key member of the Ghanaian team that negotiated the project at the World Bank Head Office in Washington, D.C., and subsequently led its implementation at the GES.

● Global Partnership for Education (GPE) COVID-19 Accelerated Funding: Leading the conceptualization, design, and implementation of the GPE COVID-19 Accelerated Funding, bolstering resilience in Ghana’s education system during the pandemic.

● Education in Emergency Policy: Spearheading the development of Ghana’s Education in Emergency Policy.

● SHS Core Subject Teacher Training: Leading the development of content for the training of Core Subject Teachers in SHS.

● GES PLC App: Driving the development and deployment of the GES PLC App to support Professional Learning Communities.

● Curriculum Reform: Leading the implementation of the Standard Based Curriculum and the Common Core Curriculum at the GES.

“It has been an honour to contribute to the advancement of education in Ghana. I am particularly proud of the work we have done to expand access and improve quality, and I am confident that the GES will continue to build on these achievements,” stated Dr. Tandoh.

Dr. Tandoh’s dedication to educational innovation and strategic planning has left a lasting impact on Ghana’s education system.

As he embarks on new endeavours, his contributions will continue to benefit generations of Ghanaian students.

Ghana l Atinkaonline.com l Vincent Kwofie