Cape coast: Mr George Justice Arthur, Mayor of Cape Coast, has called for increased investments in education and economic empowerment for the youth as crucial steps toward national development. Speaking at the Metro celebration of the 69th Independence Day at the historic Victoria Park, he emphasized that education equips the youth with essential skills and knowledge necessary for driving competitive growth.
According to Ghana News Agency, the 69th Independence Day celebration was held under the theme 'Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope.' In Cape Coast, 17 basic, Junior High, and Senior High Schools participated in a vibrant parade led by army cadets from Ghana National College, St Augustine's College, and Mfantsipim School. Other participating schools included Holy Child, Effutu Senior High Technical School, Wesley Girls SHS, Flowers Gay Schools, OLA Presbyterian Basic School, St Peter's Anglican Basic School, Good Samaritan Preparatory Basic School, Calvary Hillcrest Schools, Philip Quaque Boys' School, Police Basic School, and Royal Palace School. Effutu SHS, St Peter's Anglican JHS, and Royal Palace School were adjudged winners in the SHS, JHS, and basic school divisions, respectively.
The Mayor underscored the importance of good governance and accountability in building a prosperous nation, emphasizing that fair and inclusive policies, transparency, responsible leadership, and the fight against corruption are essential catalysts. "When citizens develop trust in equal opportunities and demonstrate the courage to try again and again, then we can boldly say that hope is being restored," he stated.
Mr. Arthur encouraged citizens to actively participate in national development, highlighting that the government cannot achieve it alone. "Prosperity builds stability, hope builds resilience, and together, they build nations," he added.
Addressing the state of the Ghanaian economy, the Mayor acknowledged recent hardships but reiterated the government's commitment to change the narrative. He noted improvements in inflation, exchange rates, and fuel prices while acknowledging that more work remains.
Mr. Thomas Kuofie, Metro Director of Education, also highlighted the critical importance of education to national development, stressing the need to nurture an efficient, informed, and skilled workforce. He urged all stakeholders to prioritize quality education and emphasized the importance of discipline and hard work, urging students to make these virtues part of their personal development.