Accra, – The Vodafone Ghana Foundation has celebrated the efforts of some young talented Ghanaians to mark the World Youth Skills Awareness and Nelson Mandela Day.
The programme, held in Accra, aimed at creating an avenue for the youth to participate in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Arts to aid in their development and prepare them for the world of work.
The World Youth Skills Awareness Day was designated by the United Nations (UN) to equip young people across the globe with the central skills for employment, work and entrepreneurship.
The UN General Assembly, in November 2009, declared July 18 “Nelson Mandela International Day” to recognise the former South African President’s contribution to the culture of peace and freedom.
Madam Grace Jeanet Mason, the South African High Commissioner, urged the youth to identify their purpose and work relentlessly towards it.
“You are destined to be great, however, it takes perseverance to get there”, she said.
Madam Mason told them education was the best weapon they could use as youngsters to excel and encouraged them to be studios for great leaders in future.
Citing former President Mandela, she admonished them to embrace the spirit of peace and reconciliation.
She said it was needful to pursue one’s dreams despite any challenge, adding, ‘There’s nothing wrong in losing, because you have to lose to win. Don’t be afraid of losing”.
Madam Mason lauded their innovativeness and encouraged them to use their skills to inspire and empower others.
Reverend Amaris Nana Adjei Perbi, Head of Vodafone Ghana Foundation said the programme would serve as an opportunity for young people to impact the society positively and also teach others to emulate them.
He said such talents should be encouraged, adding that, “It is an exceptional feat that the Foundation has chalked”.
Madam Geta Striggner-Quartey, Director of Legal and External Affairs, Vodafone Ghana, said the Foundation took keen interest in impacting lives and encouraged the youngsters to learn new skills to take up opportunities presented to them.
She urged those with interest in Arts to endeavour to master their works in order to put themselves and Ghana on the globe.
“The creatives are already in play and it’s your time as well”, she said.
Madam Striggner-Quartey said everyone had the ability and responsibility to change the world for the better and encouraged all to take action and inspire change.
Samuel Aboagye, a student of Aggrey Road Junior High School who was crowned the 2021 top talent expressed gratitude to his motivators and supporters and the Vodafone Ghana Foundation for offering him the platform to display his talent.
The 16-year-old emerged winner among 20 competitors with inventions which included; a bluetooth speaker, water dispenser and a hoover, all made from waste materials.
He was awarded a brand new laptop and a Vodafone Mi-Fi.
Source: Ghana News Agency
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