The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Sunyani West, Kwasi Asante Boateng, has urged Ghanaians to look beyond the celebrations of Independence Day and focus on the responsibility of building a more prosperous and hopeful nation.
According to him, while Ghana’s independence is a moment to reflect on the country’s progress, it should equally serve as a call to confront the challenges that remain and work collectively towards national development.
Boateng made the remarks during an Independence Day Quiz Competition organised by the Sunyani West Municipal Assembly in collaboration with the Ghana Education Service (GES).
The contest, held at the Sunyani West Municipal Assembly Hall, featured students from Odumaseman Senior High School, Chiraa Senior High School, and Sacred Heart Senior High School.
The event formed part of activities marking Ghana’s 69th Independence Anniversary under the theme: “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope.”
Addressing students, teachers, traditional leaders and other stakeholders in education, Boateng stressed that restoring hope requires unity, confidence in leadership and renewed belief in the nation’s future.
“Hope is the foundation of national progress. Without hope, effort diminishes and unity weakens,” he said.
He cautioned that political differences must never divide Ghanaians beyond repair, urging citizens to embrace dialogue and cooperation for the country’s advancement.
“We must choose dialogue over division, cooperation over conflict, and national interest over personal gain,” he added.
The MCE also highlighted Ghana’s democratic achievements, noting that the country has made significant strides since independence, including peaceful transfers of political power, stronger governance systems and increased citizen participation in national development.
He said progress has also been recorded in sectors such as education, health, agriculture and infrastructure.
Touching on developments within the Sunyani West Municipality, Boateng said the area has witnessed improvements in educational infrastructure, road networks, healthcare delivery and local economic development initiatives.
He further called on residents to support government policies aimed at boosting local industries, urging them to patronise locally produced goods and services to strengthen the economy.
The Sunyani West Municipal Director of Education, Isaah Boaffoe, also used the occasion to encourage citizens to let the Independence celebration inspire renewed commitment to national service.
He urged Ghanaians to serve selflessly, lead responsibly and uphold a strong sense of national pride.
Boaffoe also commended teachers across the municipality for their dedication and continuous efforts in shaping the character and future of young people.
The quiz competition, which tested students’ knowledge of Ghana’s history and national development, drew participation from education officials, the Municipal Police Commander, school authorities, parents and traditional leaders.
At the end of the contest, Sacred Heart Senior High School emerged winners with 47 points. However, the announcement of the second and third positions was withheld after Chiraa Senior High School protested the points awarded to their team.
As part of the event, citations of excellence were presented to outstanding students from both private and public schools who excelled in the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). Some schools were also honoured for their consistent academic achievements over the years.
The event not only celebrated Ghana’s independence but also highlighted the role of education, unity and responsible leadership in shaping the nation’s future.
Report by Daniel Donkor, Bono Region
