The Ghanaian outcry against illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey,” shows a significant public and governmental response. Recently, protests organized by the Democracy Hub under the hashtag #OccupyJulorbiHouse have taken place in Accra, drawing attention to the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining.

These protests have not only highlighted the issue but also resulted in clashes with the police, leading to arrests. Over 40 protesters, including notable activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, were detained. Barker-Vormawor was later hospitalized due to health issues following his arrest.

The protests are part of a broader movement against the government’s handling of illegal mining, which has led to widespread environmental destruction, including water pollution affecting over 60% of Ghana’s water bodies. The police and courts have taken actions against the protesters, with some being remanded in custody. However, this response has sparked further outcry over human rights concerns, with allegations of excessive force and denial of immediate medical care to detainees.

The movement has gained significant traction on social media with hashtags like #FreeTheCitizens trending, indicating widespread public support for the protesters and a demand for government action against illegal mining.  The government, recognizing the severity of the issue, has initiated Operation Vanguard in 2017, a military and police joint task force aimed at combating illegal mining. Despite these efforts, the problem persists, with recent calls from various sectors including organized labor and academic groups for more decisive action against galamsey before a set deadline in September 2024.

The environmental consequences of illegal mining have been severe, with water and land pollution affecting communities’ health and livelihoods. This has been a significant point of contention, pushing various groups to demand immediate government intervention. This situation underscores a critical juncture in Ghana, where environmental conservation, governance, and human rights intersect, with the public demanding not just an end to illegal mining but also accountability and justice in how these issues are addressed by the authorities.

Today, on September 25, 2024, the global community celebrates World Pharmacists Day with the theme Pharmacists: “Meeting Global Health Needs.” This theme underscores the pivotal role pharmacists play worldwide, not only in dispensing medications but in enhancing healthcare systems, advocating for patient care, and responding to global health challenges like pandemics.

Pharmacists around the world are being honored through various events, including special cake cuttings at pharmacies, These celebrations highlight their contributions to ensuring safe and effective medication use, patient education, and public health campaigns.

The theme for 2024 reflects pharmacists’ broad responsibilities, from ensuring access to essential medicines, conducting health screenings, and administering vaccinations to participating in research and advocating for policies that improve health outcomes. Their role was particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing their significance in crisis management and public health.

The day is also marked by educational efforts aimed at increasing public awareness about pharmacists’ roles beyond the traditional dispensing of drugs.

This includes their involvement in pharmacovigilance, environmental health considerations, and even policy-making to enhance healthcare systems.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is also engaging with this day, organizing a High-level Policy Symposium on Pharmacy Care and launching a report on community pharmacy models in eastern Europe and central Asia, showcasing the global recognition of pharmacists’ contributions to health systems.

This year’s celebration not only recognizes the past contributions but also looks forward to how pharmacists will continue to be integral in meeting evolving global health needs, pushing for advancements in healthcare delivery, patient care, and public health strategies.

The University of Ghana has postponed the commencement of its 2024/2025 academic year due to strike actions by various staff groups, including unions like the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU), the Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), and others.

This decision was communicated through official statements from the university, with the delay attributed to ongoing labor disputes.

While special programs at the university are expected to proceed as planned, a new start date for the general academic year has yet to be announced but will be communicated to students and stakeholders in due course.

This situation reflects broader labor unrest within the institution, impacting the academic calendar and operations.