Techiman (B/A) March 9, GNA - Mr. Isaac Osei-Antwi, Municipal Chief Executive for Techiman has explained that tolerance emanates from one's ability to understand contending views, respect for human differences, appreciation of other cultures, social justice and respect for human dignity.

He said tolerance comes with the recognition of the need for non-violent approach to dissenting views, which is essential for nation building.

Mr. Osei-Antwi was addressing a parade at Techiman at the weekend to commemorate the 47th anniversary of Ghana's Independence.

Chiefs, opinion leaders, heads of departments, the clergy, voluntary organizations, market groups and first and second cycle institutions attended the ceremony.

The MCE noted that the national evolution in developing a democratic culture had reached a stage whereby children should be taught the virtues of honesty, discipline and tolerance.

Mr. Osei-Antwi, who read the President's anniversary address emphasized that Ghanaians could not build the nation in the absence of discipline and tolerance and asked all to rededicate themselves to the positive service of the country.

Poor management of resources, greed and abuse of power emanating out of indiscipline have adversely affected the country's development, he said but noted that the NPP government had within its three years in office chalked some modest gains.

Ms Cordelia Mary Boakye-Yiadom, Municipal Director of Education noted that the sustainability of the country's young democracy depended on inculcating good values in children to become responsible, patriotic and capable leaders who could address the chronic national social, economic and political challenges.

She urged stakeholders to redouble efforts in addressing problems including deforestation, low productivity at work places, widespread immorality, HIV/AIDS and indiscipline.

Three students from Good Shepherd International School, who excelled in the 2003 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), were presented with prizes.

They were Master Martin Kyere Domfeh, who obtained 10 ones received 500,000 cedis, Master Felix Kwadwo Chaku, also with 10 ones took home 300,000 cedis and Miss Ellen Adjapomaah who had 6 ones was given 200,000 cedis.

Certificates of merit were later distributed to participating schools at the parade