Kumasi, March 7, GNA - The Ghana Armed Forces on Tuesday organised an open-day exhibition in Kumasi as part of activities to mark the 49th independence anniversary celebrations.

The programme attended by school children and students from the basic, second cycle schools and the general public was aimed at offering them the opportunity to interact with the military to enable have an insight into their roles to help promote civil and military relations. The soldiers treated the gathering to foot and arms drill, display of some basic weapons and amusement shootings.

Major Joseph Baa-Tsiquaye, Four Garrison Education officer, briefing the audience about the roles of the Ghana Armed Forces said they were to defend the country against internal and external aggression and to ensure the maintenance of peace and order in the country.

He said other functions include assisting the UN in Peace Keeping operations, engaging in tree planting exercises, construction of roads, rehabilitation of projects as well as involving in disaster management. He warned the students against drugs and other negative practices and advised them to learn hard in school to enable them to achieve academic laurels in future.

The members of the gathering, who later went on an excursion to the Armed Forces Museum in Kumasi, expressed happiness for the opportunity to interact with the soldiers, which have enable them to know the important roles they play in society. The Armed Forces band entertained the gathering with music to liven the occasion.