Former Black Stars captain André Dede Ayew has urged schoolchildren to take their education seriously and look out for one another, stressing that they are the future leaders of Ghana.
Ayew joined the Miss Ghana Foundation’s nationwide youth mentorship programme on Friday at the Martey Tsuru Presbyterian JHS in Accra, where more than 300 pupils were mentored in patriotism, empathy, resilience and civic responsibility.
He said he accepted the invitation from the Foundation’s Chairperson, Inna Patty, Esq., because he believes in supporting initiatives that shape the next generation.
“You are the future of Ghana. You need to take your studies seriously, be smart, work hard and care for one another. A strong nation is built when its people love and support each other,” he told the pupils.
Ayew emphasised that education must be paired with strong values and good character.
“School is important, but being human and understanding other people is even more important. I see the next presidents, ministers, footballers and leaders sitting here today. The future of our nation is in your hands, so you must be willing to work hard,” he added.
The mentorship event formed part of the Miss Ghana Foundation’s Beauty with a Purpose initiative. Contestants of Miss Ghana 2026 took turns addressing the pupils, instilling values of empathy, patriotism, resilience and compassion while encouraging them to become responsible citizens.
Award‑winning actress Jackie Appiah supported the programme with donations of bottled water and soft drinks, while A1 Bread provided refreshments for the children.
Inna Patty thanked Ayew for inspiring the pupils and said the Foundation would continue its youth mentorship programme across all 16 regions to instill positive values in Ghana’s next generation.
This year’s Miss Ghana pageant — the 69th edition — is themed “Empowering Women, Enduring Legacy.”
