Accra, Oct. 11, GNA - A newspaper, "The Student Observer" targeted at students especially those in tertiary institutions was launched on Thursday with a call for its patronage because of its educational content.

The monthly newspaper would be used to highlight issues affecting tertiary students while promoting entrepreneurship and economic empowerment of the youth. Other issues are motivational messages and profiles of successful young people, arts and entertainment, sports, financial management and health issues.

Mr Frank Agyekum, Deputy Minister of Information and National Orientation, launching the paper said it was adding to the democratic principles and economic growth of the country. He noted that the birth of a newspaper for students and by students was an indication that Ghana's democracy had been entrenched and urged the publishers to tackle issues that would inspire the youth. Mr Agyekum urged the publishers to ensure that they maintained the newspaper to survive.

Mr Bernard Avle, Breakfast Show Host on Citi FM, a local radio station in Accra, lauded the initiative and urged the publishers not to focus on issues like students reaction to high school fees but rather on building their capacities.

"Use The Student Observer to shape students thinking and increase their reading skills since reading among students has declined." Mr Mac Diamond Emekor Nyamekor, Host of an Inspirational programme "Maasem" on TV3, shared the success stories of young people who were successful and urged the youth to be focused.

"Nothing should deter us from making our dreams come true," he said. Mr Mahmoud Jahah, Chief Executive Officer of Mahlid Communications Limited, publishers of the newspaper, said it would focus on leading and inspiring the youth in the fight against poverty. "We would promote economic empowerment for the youth, promote free enterprise and give students the platform to express their views," he said.

The first two copies of the newspaper were bought for 100 Ghana cedis each.