The Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, has called for collaboration to develop innovative ways of creating sustainable jobs to empower the youth and enable them to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s economy.
Speaking at the 68th Independence Day celebration organised by the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly at the Tamale Jubilee Park, the minister noted the need to harness the region’s potential in agriculture, trade and tourism to attract investment and create employment opportunities.
“With collaboration, we can develop innovative ways of creating sustainable jobs for the youth by harnessing the country’s potential. Tamale, in particular, has immense opportunities in agriculture, trade and tourism that can be modernised to attract investment,” he stated.
He further stressed that good governance, free from corruption, is essential for national progress. According to him, both leaders and citizens must uphold accountability and transparency while prioritising education by equipping the youth with digital skills, technical expertise and entrepreneurial knowledge to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
The event, themed ‘Reflect, Review and Reset’, brought together residents, schools and stakeholders to commemorate the nation’s independence.
Honouring the past, building the future
The minister reflected on Ghana’s independence journey, acknowledging the struggles of the country’s forebears in securing freedom.
“Today’s event reminds us not only of the history of struggles by our forebears that brought us this freedom, but also how far we have translated the vision of our independence torchbearer – Dr. Kwame Nkrumah – into reality,” he said.
While commending Ghanaians for their resilience and determination over the years, he acknowledged the challenges the nation has faced, including economic setbacks, political instability and social unrest.
Addressing challenges in education
Despite progress in enhancing quality education, the minister admitted that the country still grapples with issues of accessibility and disparities between urban and rural areas.
“The disparities between urban and rural areas remain a concern, and we must continue to work toward a more inclusive education system that serves all Ghanaians equally, regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic background,” he noted.
The Tamale Metropolitan Director of the Ghana Education Service, Nelson Kunland, also highlighted the need to address the furniture deficit in schools to improve learning conditions.
Call to action
The minister urged the youth to embrace innovation, work hard and be agents of change, while encouraging entrepreneurs to push boundaries and create opportunities.
He also called on public servants and politicians to lead with integrity and serve with passion to build a nation that future generations will be proud of.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to resetting the country’s trajectory to address current challenges and build a more resilient, inclusive and prosperous future.
Meanwhile, this year’s Independence Day celebration in the Northern Region was held at multiple locations, including Sagnarigu Municipality (Tamale SHS Park), Yendi (Yendi SHS Park) and Tamale Metro (Jubilee Park).
The celebrations featured a march-past by students, with certificates and plaques awarded to schools that excelled in quiz competitions at the Metropolitan, Municipal and District levels.
SOURCE THEBFTONLINE.COM
