Historians congregate for annual conference

Accra, Aug. 9, GNA - Renowned historians across the globe on Wednesday congregated in Accra to participate in the annual conference of the History Society of Ghana (HSG) with a call for a dramatic change in the teaching of history at both secondary and tertiary levels to make it attractive.

Papa Owusu-Ankomah, Minister of Education, Science and Sports, urged historians to unearth historical monuments, landscapes and edifices that could stir the emotion and identity of the Ghanaian. "As the nation celebrates its 50th birthday, it is vital for the present generation to appreciate the contributions of our past leaders through the graphic presentation of historical facts; archaeological exposition of the scientific life and culture of our past; especially the ancient peoples; cities; relics and artefacts," he said. The conference on the general theme: "Preserving and Recording Ghana's Past: Fifty Years of Ghana's Independence," would focus on Ghana's historical background and draw a master plan for the 50th anniversary celebration of the country.

Papa Owusu-Ankomah explained that the anniversary offered Ghanaians an opportune time to do some stocktaking of the political struggles, economic developments and traditional engagement with modernity as well as social progression.

The HSG programme for the 50th anniversary celebration includes intellectual debate on: "Interrogating our Past and Present for the Future; Reflections on Fifty Years of Ghana's Independence=94 and "Interrogating our Past Landmarks in Ghana's Fifty Years of Independence." There would also be the launching of a book, "Ghana at 50: Achievements, Challenges and Prospects".

Professor Irene Odotei, President of History Society of Ghana, who outlined the programme, mentioned other sub-themes as: "The Legacy of Colonialism-Myth and Reality"; "The Rule of Law, Government and The People"; "The Changing Faces of Religion: Christianity, Islam and Traditional Religion" and "Culture, National Identity and Development".

Nana Dr Susubribri Krobia B. Asante, Omanhene of Asokore and President of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences, who chaired the conference, recalled the progressive role of the early generation of lawyers in the establishment of good governance in the country.