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Tag: Ghana Library Authority

  • GLA advocates for educational trips, resource access to improve literacy

    GLA advocates for educational trips, resource access to improve literacy

    The Ghana Library Authority (GLA) has emphasized the importance of educational trips and improved access to resources in a bid to enhance literacy levels across the country.

    Speaking at the International Children’s Day event in Accra, the Deputy Head of GLA, Richard Obeng Asante, raised concerns over the declining use of libraries in Ghana, urging the youth to take full advantage of the facilities available to them.

    “We offer a wide range of facilities designed to help your child acquire valuable knowledge relevant to today’s society. We strongly encourage parents to either visit us in person or arrange an educational trip for their children,” Asante said.

    He highlighted that such educational trips, which include visits to landmarks like the Kwame Nkrumah Museum, are not only insightful but also play a key role in enhancing children’s reading and overall learning experiences.

    During the event, which also focused on improving literacy in the country, the Municipal Director of Education for Ayawaso West, Margaret Kaba, addressed the challenges faced by parents and educators in ensuring children have access to quality learning materials. She noted that while the task of sourcing the right books can often seem overwhelming, collaborative efforts can help overcome these challenges.

    “We believe that with the support of individuals and organizations in society, we can provide our children with the resources they need to read and grow. After all, true freedom comes through the power of reading,” Kaba emphasized.

    A student from the 37 Military Hospital Basic School, Asantewaa Nwolley, shared her personal experience with reading and its profound impact on her life. “Reading brings people together because it teaches us how to connect with others. It offers so much more, too — as they say, reading is like medicine for the brain. The more we read each day, the more our brains adapt and grow,” she said.

    With these statements, the GLA, along with local educators, is urging society to come together and support children’s access to educational resources that will help them thrive in their learning journeys.

  • Ghana currently has 133 libraries – Ghana Library Authority

    Ghana currently has 133 libraries – Ghana Library Authority

    The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Library Authority (GhLA), Hayford Siaw, has revealed that the number of public libraries in Ghana has grown from 36 in 1981 to 133 in 2024.

    In an interview with Benjamin Akakpo on the Joy News AM Show on Thursday, November 14, Mr. Siaw explained that access to library services was limited in the late 1980s when the country only had 36 libraries.

    However, recent years have seen significant progress in expanding the network of public libraries.

    He highlighted that by 2017, the number of libraries had risen to 61. Following the launch of a 2018-2030 strategic plan, the government set a target to increase the number of libraries to 540 by 2030, a goal that has already resulted in the addition of 72 more libraries, bringing the current total to 133.

    Mr. Siaw also pointed out that the number of books in public libraries has grown significantly. From fewer than 400,000 books in the past, the current total now stands at nearly 2 million.

    “Books on the shelves, which had declined to fewer than 400,000, now total almost 2 million books in our public libraries,” he added.

    To keep pace with digital trends, the Authority has introduced a mobile app that allows people to access virtual library services.

    In addition, the GhLA has distributed over 1,000 computers to libraries nationwide and expanded internet connectivity to nearly half of its locations as part of the government’s digitalization efforts.

    The CEO further revealed that library visits have soared under his leadership. Annual visits, which were about 350,000 in 2016 and 2017, have now risen to nearly 1.8 million. He emphasized that 80% of library users are children under 18, while the remaining 20% are adults.

    “We have procured over 1,000 computers, which we have distributed across most of our libraries nationwide. Under the Ghana government’s digital strategy, we have also expanded internet connectivity to almost half of the libraries we manage across the country.”

    Originally founded in 1949 under the Gold Coast Ordinance CAP 118, the Ghana Library Authority later evolved from the Ghana Library Board, which was restructured in 1998 with the passage of Act 562.

    “We used to record around 350,000 visits annually in 2016 and 2017, but today we are almost at 1.8 million visits annually. This means that many more people are visiting the libraries and using the resources,” Siaw said.

  • Annoh-Dompreh to run unopposed as CEO of Ghana Library allegedly barred from contesting

    Annoh-Dompreh to run unopposed as CEO of Ghana Library allegedly barred from contesting


    Supporters of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Library Authority, Hayford Siaw, have claimed that their candidate has faced hindrances in his bid to contest against the incumbent MP, Frank Annoh-Dompreh.

    According to citinewsroom.com, NPP executives in the constituency are accused of denying Mr Siaw and others access to nomination forms, potentially favoring the incumbent MP, Frank Annoh-Dompreh.

    Abraham Adarkwah, a delegate and Youth Organizer for Sabon Zongo, expressed frustration over the lack of cooperation from constituency executives, claiming it is a deliberate act to allow the incumbent MP to run unopposed.

    Mr Adarkwah called on the National Executive Committee to intervene, warning of potential negative consequences for the party’s popularity in Nsawam-Adoagyiri if such issues persist.

    “Today is the day the party has opened nominations and we decided to go and pick a form for our candidate, Hayford Siaw.

    “But we went there this morning from 8 o’clock till 12 o’clock, then nobody was talking to us. Nobody was there. The Chairman was not there, and the Secretary was not there.

    “It was the deputy secretary who was there. And he was also telling us that he has no form for us. He is not in charge of the form. But before that, we called the Chairman, first, he picked up and we told him we were coming. The nominations were supposed to be opened at 8 o’clock, but at 8:30, and 9, the office was closed so we called the council of elders.

    “This is clear sabotage because initially, they said they wanted unopposed”, he said.

    This development follows previous support for Frank Annoh Dompreh from local chiefs who appealed to NPP leadership to allow him to continue serving without facing contestation.

    The chiefs cited the MP’s outstanding performance in health, education, road infrastructure, and ongoing projects as reasons to support his unopposed candidacy.

  • Ghana has an inadequate school library system – Library Authority CEO

    Ghana has an inadequate school library system – Library Authority CEO

    Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Library Authority, Hayford Siaw, has refuted the widespread belief that Ghanaians do not like reading.

    During an interview on Monday, August 14, 2023, he boldly contested the prevailing notion, asserting that the conducive environment and atmosphere have yet to be established.

    He also attributed the assertion to the scarcity of libraries in Ghana.

    “Historically, in 1970 there was research done by the Ghana Library Authority, British Council and the Ministry of Education to really understand why there’s the perception out there that Ghanaians don’t like reading.

    “And one of the outcomes was that we have a very poor school library system in this country. So it’s not a recent issue,” he said.

    He expressed concern over the unfortunate reality that many schools are built without libraries, which significantly hinders the development of a reading culture.

    “We build schools, we’ve refused to set up libraries, we refuse to put in the book resources, we refuse to have professionals to even go to the schools to manage the libraries in the schools.

    “So look at most schools across the country and ask if they have a professional school available to them,” he said.

    “If we really want to build the culture of reading, you don’t only tackle the Senior High Level, we need to tackle the basic level as well. So right from class one to JHS 3, we make sure we have a school library and professionals there to be able to support,” he added.

  • Ghana Library Authority yet to approve ‘I am not Yvonne Nelson’ for use in public libraries

    Ghana Library Authority yet to approve ‘I am not Yvonne Nelson’ for use in public libraries

    The Executive Director of the Ghana Library Authority (GLA), Hayford Siaw, has stated that the recently published book by Yvonne Nelson must undergo review and approval procedures before being stocked in Ghana’s public libraries.

    The Ghanaian popular actress, film producer, entrepreneur and advocate, Yvonne Nelson in her recently released book ‘I Am Not Yvonne Nelson’ has chronicled the events of her life. However, the controversial revelations of her love affairs with award-winning artiste Sarkodie in the book has sparked a lot of public discussion since its launch.

    When asked whether the GLA will stock Yvonne Nelson’s book ‘I am not Yvonne Nelson’, Mr. Siaw said “It has to go through an approval process which has not been done and so once the acquisition team looks at it and make a recommendation why not?”

    He explained that the Ghana Library Authority has an acquisition team that scrutinizes materials to ascertain their appropriateness and also establish which of the target group will benefit from the material.

    “Of course it is an interesting read from what I have learned so far” the Executive Director added.

  • Otumfuo lauds Vodafone Ghana

    Otumfuo lauds Vodafone Ghana

    The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has lauded Vodafone Ghana for its steadfast dedication and significant contributions to the development of the Ashanti Region.

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II highlighted Vodafone Ghana’s steadfast support for the Asantehene Open Golf Championship, even amidst challenging economic times. He also recognised the company’s crucial initiatives that have significantly impacted the region, particularly in the realms of education and healthcare.

    This commendation was made during a visit by Vodafone Ghana’s senior management team, led by CEO Patricia Obo-Nai, to the Manhyia Palace.

    The visit was aimed at communicating Vodafone Ghana’s continued sponsorship of the Asantehene Open Golf Tournament, a commitment they have upheld for seven successive years since 2017.

    She also announced the celebration of the 2023 Vodafone Ashanti Month, which is an annual celebration.

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed his gratitude to Vodafone for spearheading sustainable development initiatives in the Ashanti region through job creation, building a digital economy as well as enhancing the health and education sectors.

    He encouraged Vodafone to continue its commendable efforts.

    In response, Patricia Obo-Nai thanked Otumfuo and reaffirmed Vodafone Ghana’s dedication to Asanteman.

    She emphasised that their support for the golf tournament and other initiatives is geared towards fortifying Vodafone’s relationship with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the people of Asanteman, while also fostering sustainable development in the region.

    “As part of our Ashanti Month celebrations, we aim to give back to our customers and the community. So, we urge individuals and businesses to leverage all the opportunities we offer during Ashanti Month and beyond,” she said.

    The month-long celebration will include the launch of an ICT hub in the Ashanti Regional Library, a collaborative effort with the Ghana Library Authority.

    Moreover, Vodafone Ghana will revive several initiatives aimed at enhancing long-term health and sustainability outcomes.

    These include Healthfest, a free health screening initiative; Homecoming, an initiative to settle bills for insolvent hospital patients; and free ultrasound for pregnant women in Pipie in the Bosomtwe district.

  • Samira Bawumia urges authors to adopt creative writing to help solve societal problems

    Samira Bawumia urges authors to adopt creative writing to help solve societal problems

    The Second Lady, Samira Bawumia, has urged aspiring authors to use creative writing to actively address societal issues.

    Addressing young writers at the 2022 Samira Bawumia Literature Prize in Accra last Thursday, she said the importance of writing and the art of storytelling were an important tool that could not be overemphasised.

    She said there was therefore the need for the youth to utilise their skills to inspire, educate, and transform lives while capturing stories and experiences that might be lost or forgotten over time.

    “The life of the contemporary African in the 21st century and our place in the global village must be told in both fiction and non-fiction, and, indeed, nobody can tell our stories better than ourselves,” she said.

    “So I encourage you all to continue to read and write.

    A people who read and write engage their imaginations; and this opens up portals of endless possibilities as the most successful of any generation are those whose ideas solve problems within their communities or the world,” she emphasised.

    Mrs Bawumia, however, advised that while this was being taken up, writers should not also lose sight of how valuable writing was in today’s job market, saying it was also a means to provide opportunities for self employment and job creation in the future.
    Competition

    The event is an annual biennial literary prize that seeks to create a nurturing and supportive environment for aspiring young Ghanaian writers to grow, develop and highlight their literary skills.

    The competition is opened to writers to show their skills in categories, including poetry, short fiction and creative non-fiction.

    After receiving over 1,000 entries for all categories in this year’s competition, 30 individuals were awarded with three participants emerging ultimate winners for each category.
    Awards

    Gabriel Awuah Mainoo, Phinehas Osei and Henneh Kwaku Kyere — who emerged ultimate winners for the Poetry, Short Fiction and Creative Non-fiction categories respectively — each took home a certificate, GH¢5,000, a laptop and other souvenirs.

    The works of the shortlisted writers would be published in an anthology as a way to train as many writers as possible and raise interest and awareness within the Ghanaian literacy space.
    Writing habits

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Library Authority, Hayford Siaw, commended the awardees for their sterling performances in the competition, stating that for some time now, the reading and writing habit among the youth could not be hailed.

    He added that the establishment and patronage of libraries, and receiving over a 1,000 applicants in the literary competition were evidence of the high rise in reading and writing which should be fostered.

    “I urge all to ensure that we make the country a reading country by being readers and actively patronising the works of local writers in the country,” Mr Siaw said.

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    The Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Constituency, Lydia Alhassan, commended the Second Lady for her contribution and efforts to unearth writers and their skills.

    “I hope that authoring would be recognised as one of the mainstream professions to support local writers in the country,” she said.

    As a gesture to show her support, Ms Alhassan purchased 10 books each of all awardees in the competition.

    Subsequently, the Managing Director of the Ghana Commercial Bank PLC, Kofi Adomakoh, gave the assurance that the company would support the authors to ensure that the creativity of writers were shown and duly celebrated.

  • SSNIT hands over $3.2m children’s library to GLA

    The Ghana Library Authority has received the $3.2 million Children’s Library that the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) created to encourage reading and education among children (GLA).

    The facility at Nima’s Airport Residential Area, close to Kawukudi Junction, began construction in 2015 and was finished last year.

    The multi-purpose one-story library has roughly 22,000 books and is packed with contemporary technology to make it easier for the visually and hearing handicapped to use the space.

    In addition to the physical library, SSNIT also handed over a mobile library facility to the GLA.

    Speaking at the handing over ceremony witnessed by the board members of SSNIT and officials of Ministry of Education and the GLA as well as pupils from schools from Kanda, the Director-General of SSNIT, Dr John Ofori-Tenkorang, said SSNIT had been involved in education over the years.

    He said SSNIT started the Students Loan Scheme, which was later handed over to the Students Loans Trust and also financed the construction of students’ hostels and some community schools in some parts of the country.

    Dr Ofori-Tenkorang indicated that the state-of-the-art library facility was to help children to learn and discover themselves for the development of the country.

    “We believe that we need educated population, in order to get a good workforce, and, therefore, SSNIT this year launched supplementary readers developed in conjunction with the Ghana Education Service, to bring social security education to children at the younger age,” he said.

    The Director-General said the supplementary readers would help children to learn about social security and retirement planning.

    Dr Ofori-Tenkorang described the facility as ultra-modern because everything about the facility such as registration to use the library as well as searching for books, was computerised.

    In addition, he said the library had facilities for the visually and hearing impaired to read and learn, conference rooms, computer room, first aid room and media viewing room.

    Asked of the cost of the facility, he said about $3.9 million was budgeted for the project, but between $3.1 and $3.2 million was used to complete the project.

    The Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Adu-Twum, in a speech read on his behalf by the Director of Pre-Tertiary Education at the Ministry of Education, Nana Baffour Awuah, said education remained a priority of the government, most importantly, Pre-Tertiary education.

    He commended the SSNIT for financing the construction of the Children and Mobile Library for use by children from two years to the pre-tertiary level.

    Dr Adu-Twum entreated the GLA to take good care of the facility to benefit the not children around the Airport Residential Area, and the country as a whole.

    The Chief Executive Officer of GLA, Hayford Siaw said the new Children and Mobile Library, which had the capacity to serve 169 pupils, brought to 61 new libraries constructed around the country since 2016 and 14 in Greater Accra Region.

  • SSNIT hands over $3.2m children’s library to GLA

    The $3.2 million Children’s Library initiated and constructed by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to promote education and reading among children, was yesterday handed over to the Ghana Library Authority (GLA).

    The facility located at the Airport Residential Area, near Kawukudi Junction in Nima, which started in 2015 was completed last year.

    The multi-purpose one-story library, equipped with modern technological equipment to help the visually and hearing impaired also use the facility, is stocked with about 22,000 books.

    In addition to the physical library, SSNIT also handed over a mobile library facility to the GLA.

    Speaking at the handing over ceremony witnessed by the board members of SSNIT and officials of Ministry of Education and the GLA as well as pupils from schools from Kanda, the Director-General of SSNIT, Dr John Ofori-Tenkorang, said SSNIT had been involved in education over the years.

    He said SSNIT started the Students Loan Scheme, which was later handed over to the Students Loans Trust and also financed the construction of students’ hostels and some community schools in some parts of the country.

    Dr Ofori-Tenkorang indicated that the state-of-the-art library facility was to help children to learn and discover themselves for the development of the country.

    “We believe that we need educated population, in order to get a good workforce, and, therefore, SSNIT this year launched supplementary readers developed in conjunction with the Ghana Education Service, to bring social security education to children at the younger age,” he said.

    The Director-General said the supplementary readers would help children to learn about social security and retirement planning.

    Dr Ofori-Tenkorang described the facility as ultra-modern because everything about the facility such as registration to use the library as well as searching for books, was computerised.

    In addition, he said the library had facilities for the visually and hearing impaired to read and learn, conference rooms, computer room, first aid room and media viewing room.

    Asked of the cost of the facility, he said about $3.9 million was budgeted for the project, but between $3.1 and $3.2 million was used to complete the project.

    The Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Adu-Twum, in a speech read on his behalf by the Director of Pre-Tertiary Education at the Ministry of Education, Nana Baffour Awuah, said education remained a priority of the government, most importantly, Pre-Tertiary education.

    He commended the SSNIT for financing the construction of the Children and Mobile Library for use by children from two years to the pre-tertiary level.

    Dr Adu-Twum entreated the GLA to take good care of the facility to benefit the not children around the Airport Residential Area, and the country as a whole.

    The Chief Executive Officer of GLA, Hayford Siaw said the new Children and Mobile Library, which had the capacity to serve 169 pupils, brought to 61 new libraries constructed around the country since 2016 and 14 in Greater Accra Region.

  • Library Authority secures license for 1000 Ghanaians to study on Coursera

    The Ghana Library Authority (GhLA) has secured scholarship slots for 1000 Ghanaians to study on Coursera.

    Coursera is one of the leading, globally recognized Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) platforms because of its association with top universities like, Stanford University, Yale University, University of Pennsylvania and many others in offering online courses.

    The Authority in partnership with the Commonwealth of Learning (CoL), earlier this year, launched the Read2skill project to offer 1000 online scholarships to Ghanaians to study on Udemy.

    As a result of the massive response from Ghanaians, the Commonwealth of Learning offered 1400 more scholarship slots which are currently been utilized by the successful applicants to acquire new skills.

    Speaking on the project, the Executive Director of the Ghana Library Authority, Hayford Siaw said, “to encourage Ghanaians to learn from home as the world fights the novel Covid-19 pandemic, the GhLA, with support from the CoL is offering 1000 additional online scholarships.

    “This time it is on a different online learning platform called Coursera. It is an online learning platform just like Udemy, and offers a myriad of online courses for its learners.”

    “The Authority received over 30,000 applications a few weeks after the Read2Skill project was launched. Therefore, we will not accept new applications, since we have about 28,000 applications which were denied enrollment due to limited slots”, he emphasised.

    Mr. Siaw added that all Ghanaians who applied in our initial Read2Skill call for applications but were not selected, should remain hopeful of a better chance to study on Coursera.

    Coursera works with universities and other organizations to offer online over 5000 courses in engineering, data science, machine learning, mathematics, business, computer science, digital marketing, humanities and others.

    These courses provide quizzes, weekly exercises, peer-graded assignments, and sometimes a final project or exam.

    Courses are also provided on-demand, in which case users can take their time to complete the course with all of the material available at once.

    Successful individuals would have to start and complete their courses before December 31, 2020.