Saltpond (C/R), March 8, GNA - Ghanaians have been urged to let the patriotism demonstrated by the founders of the nation to inspire them to be committed to national development.

Mr Sampson Amoako Kwarteng, Mfantseman Municipal Coordinating Director, who made the call, said "The founders did not have things easy, therefore, we must renew our determination to ensure the progress of our dear nation". He was addressing school children, workers and voluntary organisation, after they participated in a parade to commemorate Ghana's 52nd Independence Anniversary, on theme "Unity and Peace, Pillars for National Development", at Saltpond, in the Central Region. Mr. Kwarteng said the pomp and pageantry that characterised the celebration should encourage the people to co-exist peacefully for development, irrespective of their religious, ethnic and political affiliation.

He said "We must eschew laziness, malingering, corruption, "pull him or her down attitude" and other unproductive behaviours, in order to improve upon the modest achievements the nation has chalked over the past five decades". Mr. Kwarteng appealed to parents to invest in the education of their children to enable them to acquire skills and knowledge required for national development adding "Let us unearth the creative potentials in our children through education." He expressed concern about the high rate of indiscipline among the youth and appealed to parents to collaborate with school authorities to solve the problem. Prizes were presented to schools which excelled in the march past.