On March 6, 1957, the Gold Coast became Ghana, the first African nation south of the Sahara to gain independence from colonial rule. This historic achievement was not just a political victory but a declaration of African capability, resilience, and pride.

At the Old Polo Grounds in Accra, thousands of Ghanaians stood together in hope and anticipation. At the stroke of midnight, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah proclaimed, “At long last, the battle has ended! And thus, Ghana, your beloved country, is free forever!” Cheers filled the night as the Ghanaian flag rose, marking the birth of a free nation.

A Legacy of Courage and Unity

Ghana’s independence was not handed over easily. It was won through decades of struggle by nationalists, activists, and ordinary citizens who believed in self-governance. The likes of Kwame Nkrumah, The Big Six, and countless unsung heroes devoted their lives to breaking the chains of colonial rule. Their efforts paved the way for other African nations to follow, inspiring a wave of independence movements across the continent.

For Ghanaians, March 6 is more than a date; it is a reminder of the sacrifices made and the responsibility of every citizen to uphold the values of freedom and unity. It represents the resilience of a people who refused to be defined by oppression and instead chose self-determination.

The Relevance of Independence Today

Sixty-seven years later, Ghana’s independence remains a source of pride. It serves as a call to action for every citizen to contribute to national development, uphold democratic values, and protect the unity of the nation.

Independence Day is not just a celebration of history but a moment of reflection. Are we living up to the ideals of our forefathers? Are we building a Ghana that future generations will be proud of? These questions must guide our governance, economy, and social progress.

As Ghana marks another Independence Day, let every citizen remember: freedom is not just about breaking from colonial rule; it is about self-reliance, integrity, and a commitment to nation-building. Our independence is our pride, and its legacy is ours to uphold.

Long live Ghana!

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Sam George (Left) during the signing ceremony with MTN Ghana

MTN Group and Ghana have signed an agreement to work together to support the government’s flagship ‘One Million Coders” programme to equip young Ghanaians with artificial intelligence, coding and digital skills to drive the country’s digital transformation.

On the sidelines of the Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, and Mr Ralph Mupita, MTN Group President and Chief Executive Officer, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore areas for collaboration on what the Minister called the flagship initiative of the new administration of President John Mahama.

This was in a statement issued by MTN Ghana and copied to the Ghana News Agency.

The statement quoted the Minister as saying “We engaged with the MTN Group and expressed our desire for a partnership that will lead to fuel the capacity of young Ghanaians in the area of artificial intelligence, digital technology, data governance and cybersecurity. MTN did not hesitate to offer to support the initiative.”

It further quoted the Minister as saying “We recognise that as part of its 25th anniversary, MTN (Ghana) is making significant investments in Ghana. The MTN building, donated to the government of Ghana, will become one of our centres for excellence for artificial intelligence and software development. We are committed to backing MTN in this endeavour.”

It said Mupita thanked the Minister and his delegation for two days of constructive engagements and for choosing MTN as a trusted partner, saying, “We are very focused on understanding the strategy Ghana has and how we as MTN Group and MTN Ghana can support it.”

It further quoted Mr Mupita as saying “We thank you for your commitment in terms of creating an enabling environment for us to carry on the work we are doing, very humbly though, to support the building out of the digital ecosystem that will be a catalyst for growth and expansion and meet the socioeconomic objectives of the Ghanaian government.”

The statement said, “Given that around 3000 languages are spoken across Africa, it was incumbent on Africans to ensure that they worked on their own large language models to develop the solutions made possible through generative AI” quoting Mupita as saying “We must develop our own talent on the African continent; we must develop our own software engineers and we must be doing more around coding to enable us to all be future fit.”

The statement also quoted Ebenezer Asante, MTN Group Senior Vice President for Markets, as saying “MTN is delighted to be part of the initiative, which is closely aligned to MTN’s strategic intent, adding “Between MTN and Ghana, we will partner using common projects to advance the cause of African development.”

It said, “The MoU follows the introduction in 2023 of the MTN Skills Academy in multiple MTN operating countries, including Ghana. The MTN Skills Academy aims to provide access to digital and financial skills training across the continent.”

It added that “The Academy provides a range of courses including coding, web development, digital marketing and data analytics with the aim of ensuring 60 per cent of youth and adults have at least basic proficiency in sustainable digital skills by the end of 2025.”

Project Team for new BoG headquarters explains repeated increase in total cost

Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin South Constituency, Rev John Ntim Fordjour, has appealed to the Mahama administration to work on uncompleted projects in the Assin South District of the Central Region.  

He made the appeal at the 68th Independence Day Celebration at Assin Darmang in Assin South, on the theme: “Reflect, Review and Reset.”  

Four basic schools, two senior high schools, two cadet corps and a regimental band participated in the parade.  

He mentioned some of the projects such as Agenda 111 Hospital, the model STEM educational complex in the district, as well as continuing with the Free SHS initiative.  

He said plans were underway to build a Fire Service Station in the district.  

The coordinating director, Richard Ansah Amoafo, said the district would work together despite differences, fostering an environment of understanding and respect and embracing each other’s view for a common goal.  

In addition, he noted that residents must commit themselves to the values that have always defined the district: hard work, resilience, community spirit, among others.  

He pledged the Assembly’s commitment to continuously work closely with all departments and agencies, traditional leaders and residents in the district to drive progress, innovation and growth.  

The District Director of Education, Isaac Opoku Inkoom, noted that the reset agenda was very important, saying it should be in attitude, mindset and actions.  

He said all should take a new path where necessary and not do things the same way and expect new outcomes but be more responsible and accountable and to develop a sense of patriotism.  

Ghana became the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence in 1957.  

Dr Kwame Nkrumah, who led the successful negotiations with the British colonial government and declared independence on March 6, 1957, became the first Prime Minister and then President in 1960.  

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku led a delegation from the Ghana Football Association and the football fraternity to mourn with Asante Kotoko and pay last respect at the funeral of devoted fan,  Yaw Frimpong, better known as ‘Nana Pooley’, on Thursday March 6, 2025, in Kumasi.

The funeral, held at the Heroes park, Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi  saw a strong representation from the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and key members of the football fraternity.

President Okraku and Vice-President Mark Addo attended the funeral alongside key football industry players.

The President, was joined by his team of Executive Council members, Regional Football Association Chairmen, Club Executives and officials from the GFA to show support and solidarity to Asante Kotoko and bid farewell to the passionate fan.

The late Nana Pooley, who passed away painfully last month, was interred at Ahafo Kukuom Royal Mausoleum on Thursday March 6, 2025.

The final funeral rites attracted football administrators, supporters and enthusiasts from across the country, as the fraternity celebrated the life of a true loyal fan of the Porcupine Warriors in particular, and Ghana football in general.

Nana Pooley, known for his unwavering support and dedication to Asante Kotoko, was highly regarded by the club and its supporters.

His funeral drew a significant crowd, as football officials, fans, and well-wishers gathered to honor the memory of the passionate fan who played an important role in fostering the vibrant fan culture of Asante Kotoko.

This gathering reflects the unity and shared respect in Ghana football, as the football family stood with Asante Kotoko during this difficult time.

GFA Communications

Take part in an exciting hands-on learning opportunity this summer in Ghana through Waterloo International’s Beyond Borders program, in collaboration with the Faculties of Environment and Science.  

For 65 days, students will be immersed in the vibrant culture of Ghana, West Africa, while taking a deep dive into environmental issues like plastic pollution, water security, and climate change. This opportunity is open to 15 students and is funded by the Queen Elizabeth Scholars Program and matching funds from UWaterloo. All travel, accommodation, and meals are paid for as part of the program, making this opportunity more accessible.  

While in Ghana, students will complete the equivalent of four courses, earning them 2.0 course credits (ENVS 476C for 1.50 units and SCI 300 for 0.50 units). Students are responsible for paying the per-unit tuition fees to UWaterloo as with any other courses. Preference is given to Environment and Science students, but your friends in other faculties who are passionate about environmental issues are welcome to apply!  

Expand your worldview in Ghana 

For 2025, we’ve partnered with the University of Cape Coast (UCC) and Ashesi University (AU) on this initiative to create a collaborative learning environment with students from all institutes involved. This academic adventure includes field trips, lab analysis on microplastics, and lots of time outdoors, with every aspect being a part of your learning experience while working toward completing the four courses (and earning those 2.0 credits).  

This is an excellent opportunity to expand your worldview and develop intercultural competence while earning credits toward your undergraduate degree. This unique experience will help you enhance your communication, adaptability, problem-solving, and leadership skills, all of which are essential for a globalized world. 

If learning more about global environmental challenges in a new place outside your comfort zone excites you, we think this opportunity is for you! If you are a third- or fourth-year undergraduate student and would like to learn more, you can attend the information session on March 10, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. in EV1 221 (no registration required). 

The final deadline to apply to the program is March 21. Don’t miss it!  

Accra, Ghana – A decade ago, Workspace Global was just an idea sketched out on a dining table in Dansoman. Today, it’s a fast-growing platform connecting businesses across Africa to on-demand creative talent—without the overhead of hiring full-time.

Last Friday, the company marked its 10-year milestone with an event in Accra, bringing together clients, creatives, and industry leaders to reflect on its journey and unveil its next phase of growth. The night wasn’t just about looking back—it was about what comes next for a company that has quietly built a name in branding, marketing, and remote work solutions across the continent.

From Dining Table to a Pan-African Creative Hub

Workspace Global was built on a simple insight: African businesses struggle to find high-quality branding and marketing talent, and creatives need more reliable ways to work and earn.

Founder Sydney Scott Sam started with just a laptop, a small team, and a mission to bridge that gap. Over the years, Workspace evolved into a full-scale digital platform, enabling businesses to access branding, design, and marketing services seamlessly—at a fixed price, within three days.

With over 4,000 projects completed, 100+ creative professionals onboarded, and operations in more than 20 countries, the company has become a key player in Africa’s growing digital economy.

“Three days means three days,” one client said during the event, highlighting Workspace Global’s reputation for speed and efficiency. “They don’t just promise; they execute—with clarity and intentionality.”

A New Identity for the Next Decade

The highlight of the night was the unveiling of Workspace Global’s rebrand—a fresh look designed to reflect its evolution and growing impact across Africa.

Sydney Scott Sam, addressing the audience, emphasized that the mission remains unchanged:

“We started to solve a simple problem—businesses needed better branding, and creatives needed better work opportunities. We made that happen. But now, we’re thinking even bigger.”

The rebrand signals Workspace Global’s next phase, with a renewed commitment to scaling its creative network, expanding partnerships, and deepening its presence in Africa’s fast-growing startup and business ecosystem.

Scaling Creative Work at the Speed of Business

One of Workspace Global’s core differentiators is its ability to deliver high-quality branding solutions fast—without the inefficiencies of traditional agencies or the unpredictability of freelancers. The model is simple:

•One platform

•One price

•Endless creative support—without the overheads

A single mother and current employee shared how Workspace Global has enabled her to balance work and family while building a solid career. Another former team member reflected on how the company challenged him to grow, pushing him beyond his comfort zone.

The impact is clear: Workspace isn’t just a platform—it’s a career accelerator for creatives and a game-changer for businesses that need top-tier branding without the friction.

What’s Next?

As the event wrapped up, the conversations continued—founders exchanging ideas, creatives discussing collaborations, and clients reflecting on the value Workspace has brought to their businesses.

From a five-person team at a dining table to a pan-African creative powerhouse, Workspace Global has spent the past decade proving that branding doesn’t have to be slow, expensive, or unreliable.

And if the energy in the room was anything to go by, the next ten years are set to be even bigger.

Joseph Nelson, Western Regional Minister, has assured Ghanaians that the social contract that exists between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the people of Ghana following the 2024 general elections, would be fulfilled in due course.

He said the determination of the NDC government led by President John Dramani Mahama to improve the fortunes of the country, remains binding.

“We remain committed to our social contract with the Ghanaian people, and I can assure you we are poised to achieve these milestones, we will”, he said with confidence.

Joseph Nelson gave the assurance while addressing security forces, students, chiefs and people of Western Region at this year’s independent anniversary parade grounds.

It was held at Effiakuma in the Effia Kwesimintsim Municipality of the Western Region.

The Regional Minister explained that the new government under President John Dramani Mahama is committed to implementing practical policies to improve education at all levels.

He expressed regret that whereas access to education has improved, Ghanaians still face challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited teaching and learning materials, lack of teacher motivation and disparities in learning outcomes.

He continued, “To move forward, we must be honest about our successes and shortcomings. Education, for instance, remains a critical area requiring urgent attention”.

To this end, Joseph Nelson emphasised that the resetting agenda of the NDC government, therefore, is to direct efforts towards progress and development.

“It calls for concerted effort by the Ghanaian, and the willingness of all to work towards the Ghana we want” he noted.

Aside from that, Minister Nelson said as Ghanaians reflect, they “must acknowledge that despite the country’s achievements as a sovereign nation, unemployment, inadequate infrastructure and gaps in education and healthcare remain challenges we must overcome.”

Historically, he narrated Ghana’s painful past and the strides made over time.

On this day in 1957, Ghana became the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence, setting the stage for self-governance and national development.

Over the past 68 years, we have made significant strides in governance, education, healthcare, infrastructure and economic growth” he added.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Managing Director of GCB Bank PLC, Farihan Alhassan

GCB Bank PLC has announced outstanding financial results for 2024, marking a significant milestone as the Bank concludes the final year of its 4-year strategic cycle.

The audited financial results released show the Bank achieved a record-high Profit Before Tax (PBT) of GH¢1.91 billion, a 25.3% year-on-year increase.

This remarkable performance highlights the Bank’s resilience in a challenging and uncertain operating environment, which included a major regulatory change that impacted liquidity industry-wide.

Revenue for the year grew by 19%, driven by a 19.02% increase in interest income, a 42.72% surge in non-funded income, and an 8.41% increase in net trading income.

These gains reflect GCB Bank’s continued focus on operational excellence and its ability to adapt to market conditions.

Strategic Focus Drives Balance Sheet Expansion

The Bank’s strategic shift in 2024 towards a strong sales and customer-centric approach has significantly contributed to deposits and loan book expansion, positioning GCB Bank to reclaim its dominance in Ghana’s banking sector.

As a result, the Bank’s balance sheet grew by 58% year-on-year, reaching GH¢42.58 billion, representing an 11.58% share of the industry’s total assets. This outpaced the 33.79% growth in industry-wide assets. GCB’s loan book grew by 52.83% year-on-year to GH¢10.2 billion, securing an 11.85% share of the total industry loans.

Total deposits increased by GH¢12.73 billion to reach GH¢34.63 billion in 2024, reflecting a 58.1% year-on-year growth, which compares favorably with the industry-wide deposit growth of 28.76%.

Improved Asset Quality and Stronger Capital Position

The strong financial performance in 2024 has further solidified GCB Bank’s capital position.

Shareholders’ equity surged by 44.72% year-on-year to GH¢4.05 billion, translating into a year-end Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 15.23% without relief, comfortably above the regulatory minimum of 13%.

This marks a significant step in the Bank’s ability to operate without reliance on regulatory forbearance.

Asset quality continues to improve, with our Non-Performing Loans (NPL) ratio declining by 5.1% year-on-year to 15.1%. By maintaining a proactive approach to risk management, the bank expects to sustain the improvement in asset quality.

GCB’s Earnings Per Share (EPS) increased to GH¢4.56, while the Return on Equity (RoE) stood at 35.29%, reflecting efficient capital utilization. The Return on Assets (RoA) for the year was 3.48%.

Focus on Sustained Profitability Amid Rising Costs

The 2024 performance continues the resilience GCB has shown in rebounding strongly from the economic crisis despite the prevailing challenges in the operating environment.

Investments in the systems, people, and technology have set a strong base for growth as we transition into a new strategy cycle from 2025.

While the record profit came within the context of increasing costs from interest expense, fees and commission expense, and other operating expenses, in part, reflect the prevailing market dynamics, efficiency in operations and the use of capital and cost control remain topical themes as the bank transitions into a new strategy cycle.

With the steady improvement in the operating environment expected to unlock growth opportunities, the bank’s sustainable and customer-focused approach to driving deposit and revenue growth via digitalization, proactive sales, ecosystem incubation, and market diversification are expected to come to the fore.

Thus, this renewed sales and customer service focus with technology as the enabler, is expected to sustain profitability through the next phase of the Bank’s strategy amidst the ongoing cost efficiency drive through streamlined processes and effective cost control.

Commenting on the results, Managing Director of GCB Bank, Farihan Alhassan, stated, “2024 has been a truly exceptional year for GCB Bank. These stellar results represent the best performance in our history in nominal terms, marking a significant achievement in our journey. However, we recognize areas where we need improvement. This performance notwithstanding, there is still room for improvement in our efficiency metrics.”

The MD assured that, with the sizeable investment in systems, talents and people, the bank is on course to enhance efficiency within our network”.

Mr. Alhassan concluded, “Overall, 2024 was a strong year, and we are determined to build on this momentum as we look to the future and continue to drive growth in the years ahead.”

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• Nana Akufo-Addo was at the Jubilee House for Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary Commemoration parade
• As the event ended, a journalist tried interviewing the former President but failed to get a response
• Ghanaians who reacted to the video shared their views on Akufo-Addo’s decision to attend the event

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is trending after a video of him at the Jubilee House for Ghana’s 68th Independence Day celebration event on March 6, 2025.

This comes after a reporter tried interviewing him.

The video, which has gone viral and was sighted by YEN.com.gh on the TikTok page @mrxghana, showed the moment Nana Akufo-Addo was leaving the Jubilee House after the event had ended.

The former President, while walking to his car, stopped to interact with the Director of Operations at the Presidency, COP Nathan Kofi Boakye (Rtd.).

A Joy News reporter saw this as an opportunity to get Nana Akufo-Addo to share a few words with Ghanaians, so he hurriedly came in from the side with his microphone and asked the former President if he had “any words for Ghanaians”.

Read also

John Mahama arrives at Independence Anniversary in only one car: “where is your convoy”

At this point, Akufo-Addo turned briefly to see who was making the request, after which he looked away and continued walking.

Other dignitaries such as Chairman of the Council of State, Hon. Doe Adjaho, Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu and former President John Kofi Agyekum Kufuor.

The video also showed John Agyekum Kufuor and COP Kofi Boakye having a chat at the event.

President Mahama explained during his speech that the decision to scale down the independence anniversary celebration was aimed at cutting down on costs.

At the time of writing this report, the video had raked in over 100 likes and five comments.

Watch the video below:

Peeps react to Akufo-Addo at the Jubilee House

Netizens who reacted to the video expressed joy at seeing former President Nana Akufo-Addo.

GStone commented:

Mahama never honored any invitation under Nana. Nana is free-spirited the other is bitter.

Read also

Ghana at 68: Appiah Stadium attends parade at Jubilee House, bodyguard begs him to sit down

Ericfynn stated:

“Nana Addo looks fresh paa ooo. He looks younger than Mahama.”

Episode added:

“He still feels he is the president.”

Hard Rock 🪨 1 added:

“Nana Addo is even looking better than the one in power.”

Akua wrote:

“Addo show boy, Addo guy, guy, looking as fresh as ever .”

Mav added:

“Very strong and intelligent ex-presidents, Mahama never attended events under NPP term.”:

gilbertoppong119 wrote:

“The best president Ghana has ever had in the 4th republic. Talk of infrastructure, economy, education, digitalization, security, energy sector and more. Nana, since you left us, we have been sleeping in darkness.”

Funny face draws crowd at Jubilee House

Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that comic actor and comedian Funny Face also attended Ghana’s 68th Independence Day celebration event at the Jubilee House.

A video showed the adorable moment when Funny Face was seen interacting with attendees at the event.

Read also

Ghana@68: Akufo-Addo returns to Jubilee House for Independence Anniversary Commemoration parade

He was quickly tapped by a female police officer who then engaged him in a brief conversation.

Another young man dressed in a suit then approached and expressed delight to see him.

Source: YEN.com.gh

As Ghana celebrates its 68th independence anniversary, former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has urged Ghanaians to prioritise peace, unity, and economic progress in order to build a stronger, more prosperous nation.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, March 6, Dr Bawumia reflected on the significance of the day, emphasising the importance of unity in shaping the country’s future.

“I extend my warm wishes to all Ghanaians on this 68th Independence Day. It is my hope that, as citizens of Ghana, we continue to live in peace, united for both political and economic progress, and strengthen our shared heritage,” he wrote.

Reaffirming this year’s theme, “Reflect, Review, Reset,” Dr Bawumia highlighted the need for collective action in driving national development.

“We are one people, one nation with a shared destiny. May our future be filled with happiness, cohesion, and positive transformation,” he added.

This year’s Independence Day celebrations were more subdued, reflecting the country’s current economic challenges.

In contrast to previous years, the event was held at the Jubilee House instead of the Black Star Square.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Featured

Kweku Zurek

Business News

Mar – 06 – 2025 , 18:00

John Sheriff Bawah, Managing Director, State Housing Company Limited (SHCL)

The new State Housing Company Limited (SHCL), Managing Director, John Sheriff Bawah has pledged to transform the housing sector by leveraging innovation, efficiency, and strategic partnerships to expand homeownership opportunities.

With an extensive background in real estate development, project management, and international business, Bawah brings a strategic vision focused on making quality housing affordable, sustainable, and accessible for all Ghanaians.

In his foremost meeting with the management of the company, Bawah emphasized his commitment to improving estate management services, ensuring modern and well-planned housing projects that cater to both urban and rural communities.

A leader with proven expertise

Bawah is widely recognized for his ability to drive growth in global companies and effect real change in Ghana’s real estate landscape. His career spans over fifteen years in residential and commercial property development, having led key private, commercial, and government housing projects across the country.

His work in the sector has contributed to economic growth and job creation, benefiting communities where he has developed housing projects. He firmly believes that Ghana’s transition to a high-middle-income economy depends on the availability of affordable and sustainable housing solutions.

Multinational Experience and Strategic Vision

Before venturing into real estate, Mr. Bawah held leadership roles in top multinational companies, including Beiersdorf (makers of Nivea), Nestlé Ghana, and Nokia SSA. His expertise in market expansion and business turnaround strategies saw him successfully establish operations in multiple countries.

At Beiersdorf, he led business expansion across 13 West African nations, notably setting up full-scale operations in Nigeria and Ghana. His contributions to Nestlé Ghana included pioneering the Modern Trade segment, while at Nokia SSA, he played a key role in retail strategy transformation and product innovation.

His international experience extends to consulting roles with Imagine FMCG (UAE) and Alphasights, where he advised multinational brands on African market entry and expansion strategies.

A vision for the future of State Housing

With a Master’s Degree in International Relations from the University of Westminster (UK) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Ghana, coupled with extensive leadership training in Germany, South Africa, and Canada, Mr Bawah is well-equipped to lead SHCL into a new era of growth and innovation.

He has also enhanced his real estate expertise by securing a professional certification from the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA), Canada.

As the new Managing Director of SHCL, Bawah aims to bridge Ghana’s housing deficit by introducing cost-effective, high-quality housing solutions tailored to the needs of the average Ghanaian. His leadership is expected to modernize estate management and strengthen the role of SHCL in national development.

With his track record in real estate, project execution, and business leadership, the future of SHCL under John Sheriff Bawah looks promising and transformative.

By Ewoenam Kpodo

Hatsukope (V/R), March 6, GNA – The St. Paul’s Senior High School and Minor Seminary (SPACO) will in the near future feed its students and possibly, others in the Ketu South Municipality with produce from its farm. 

The school currently cultivated cassava and vegetables, including chilli pepper on an acre and half land under a non-governmental organisation, Governance Africa Foundation’s (GAfF) Schools and Homes Agriculture Revival Programme (SHARP) initiative. 

The SHARP initiative, being piloted at SPACO, was designed to engage students in agriculture by integrating it into educational curriculum and extracurricular activities, aimed at instilling values of responsibility, entrepreneurship, and environmental consciousness among them through civic clubs established by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in schools. 

Speaking at the official ceremony, Mr Emmanuel Hope Kwodwo Dogodzi, SPACO Headmaster, thanked GAfF for the significant step it had taken by collaborating with Interplast Ghana Limited among others towards bolstering the initiative, which he said started in the school some two years ago. 

He said the school through the programme, got cassava dough and bags of “gari” (which processing was outsourced) from the cassava plantation, part of which went to the kitchen to feed the students and to the market for sale to generate some revenue to run the school with. 

Mr Dogodzi noted that despite this achievement, there was the challenge with water for an all-year round farming, hence lauded the collaboration with the pipe manufacturing company which had now helped in providing irrigation solutions on the farm. 

He expressed hope that with one of their biggest challenges surmounted and in anticipation of other supports, including technical, the farmland would be expanded and with improved yields, enough to feed the students and possibly, others in the municipality. 

Mr Kafui Agbe, Ketu South Municipal Director of Agriculture, pledged his outfit’s readiness to lend technical expertise for the success of the programme for the school to reap the benefits and encouraged them saying, “Through SHARP, let’s be sharp and feed our sister schools in the municipaity.” 

Ms Doreen Baaba Asante, a representative from Interplast Ghana, said the company was  excited to join the SHARP initiative to train young ones on irrigation farming to advance agriculture in the country, noting Ghana with all its suitable climatic conditions must not be importing foods that could be produced locally. 

Mama Hodzige II, Municipal Director, NCCE said the students should take the programme seriously to impact their future, noting agriculture was the backbone of any economy and society and that none could do without agriculture. 

Mr George Odamtten, Founder, GAfF in an interview with Ghana News Agency, said the 20-year-old organisation, which aims to promote democracy, peace and understanding in Africa, achievable through the education of Africans with the knowledge of the constitution, is a strong advocate for youth empowerment.  

He noted that SHARP had been extended to Afienya SHS and that there were plans of establishing model farms in all 16 regions to serve as practical learning centres where the youth could gain the right experience in modern agricultural practices and techniques thereby enhancing their entrepreneurial capabilities. 

Master Prince Dugah, one of the students, told GNA that he learnt a lot from SHARP and was hopeful of its impact on his future after school. 

The day saw some presentation of certificates of honour to some deserving individuals and companies, launching of pocket-sized constitution books and, ended with a visit to the school farm. 

GNA 

MA/CA