By Samuel Yoakum
Akropong-Akuapem (E/R), March 08, GNA – Selected basic schools in the Akuapem North Municipality celebrated the 69th independence anniversary with an academic quiz competition, a symbolic shift from the traditional march.
The event, held in Akropong-Akuapem and accompanied by performances from the Akuapem Melodic Choir, brought together schools including Larteh Methodist Junior High School, Nana Ankobea Junior High School, Akuapem Hills Preparatory, Mampong Municipal Assembly Junior High School, Adawso Presby Junior High School, New Mangoase Junior High School and St. Mary Preparatory School in Okorase.
Mr Laurence Dzah, Municipal Director, Ghana Education Service, opened the ceremony with a call for renewed patriotism, saying, “This anniversary should remind us of the virtues of patriotism, hard work and selflessness,” he said.
He expressed hope that the celebration would “renew our collective commitment to building a nation where knowledge, discipline and good character guide our progress.”
He acknowledged the support of the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) and the Municipal Assembly in implementing education policies.
He praised teachers for “their consistent hard work in shaping future leaders,” urging students to view the quiz as “a learning process, not merely a competition.”
Delivering the keynote address, the MCE, Mr John Evans Kumordzi, highlighted the anniversary theme, “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope.”
He paid tribute to Ghana’s independence leaders. “We honour Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah and our forefathers for their bravery,” he said. “It is our turn to continue the legacy of building a prosperous and hopeful nation.”
He emphasised education as the foundation of national development, stressing that, “It is through education that we build a self-sufficient society.”
He encouraged young people to “learn, grow and develop skills that prepare them for leadership,” adding that patriotism, hard work, and selflessness “remain essential for the development of any nation.”
Mr Sammy Awuku, Akuapem North MP, encouraged students to stay committed to their academic work saying, “Take your studies seriously and stay away from drugs and anything that can jeopardise your future.”
He noted that Ghana’s journey from independence to republican status and democracy “is a sacrifice our forefathers made for us,” adding that “69 years of nationhood is indeed worth celebrating.”
At the end of the competition, Nana Ankobea JHS emerged victorious with 37 points. Akuapem Hills Preparatory placed second with 35 points, while Mangoase Presby JHS took third with 30 points. Larteh MA JHS, Tinkong MA, St. Mary’s JHS in Okorase and Adawso Presby JHS followed in the subsequent positions.
The first placed school received GHS5,000, the second GHS3,000 and the third GHS2,000, while all other participants were awarded GHS500 each.
The event, organisers said, demonstrated the municipality’s commitment to fostering patriotism and academic excellence.
It also served as a reminder of “the sacrifices made by our forefathers” and the continuing role of education in shaping Ghana’s future.
GNA
Edited by D.I. Laary/Linda Asante Agyei