Private schools in the Bolgatanga Municipality of the Upper East Region have marked Ghana’s 69th Independence Day with a colourful parade held at the Mobil Astroturf park.
The event, organized by the Ghana National Association of Private Schools, brought together pupils, teachers, parents, and school proprietors to commemorate Ghana’s independence and reflect on the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers. About 80 private schools participated in the celebration and were presented with certificates of participation.
Speaking to the media, the Municipal Chairman of Ghana National Association of Private Schools, Stephen Samari, explained that private schools organized their celebration on March 5, ahead of the national celebration on March 6.
According to him, the event was held under the national theme, “Building Prosperity, Inspiring Hope,” and sought to educate pupils about the importance of Ghana’s independence and the role played by national heroes in securing freedom for the country.
Mr. Samari said the celebration was also meant to teach pupils about patriotism, discipline, honesty and sacrifice so they can grow into responsible citizens who will contribute to national development.
He emphasized that pupils represent the future leadership of the country and must be nurtured with the right values to continue building the nation.
The GNAPS chairman also called on parents to support the upbringing of their children by ensuring they receive proper education and discipline. He further appealed to government to extend more support to private schools, stressing that pupils in private institutions are equally Ghanaian children and deserve access to national educational opportunities.
Mr. Samari particularly urged government to ensure fairness in the computerized school placement system so that qualified students from private schools can gain admission into their preferred senior high schools.
He also appealed for the posting of National Service Scheme personnel to private schools, especially those in remote communities where there is a shortage of teachers. In addition, he called for support in the provision of infrastructure, such as classrooms, to assist less-endowed private schools to improve teaching and learning conditions.
The celebration was attended by representatives from the Ghana Education Service, the Department of Social Welfare, parents and other stakeholders who joined the pupils in commemorating Ghana’s independence.
A1 Radio | 101.1Mhz | Joshua Asaah | Bolgatanga
