Accra, Nov.6, GNA- With open arms, the Vice President, Alhaji Aliu Mahama on Monday welcomed eight young Japanese volunteers who are in Ghana to serve as agents of development and urged them to approach their assignments with zeal.

Speaking at a meeting with the volunteers at the Osu Castle, he urged them to adapt to the cultural and traditional lifestyle of Ghanaians and strive to be goodwill ambassadors of the country after their two-year duty tour.

"Continue to work with Ghanaians to foster good understanding", he said.

The volunteers, who are in the country under the auspices of Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) would be teaching Science and Mathematics Education, Community Development, Vocational skills, Information, Communication and Technology and HIV/AIDS control in second cycle schools at the countryside.

Alhaji Mahama recalled the relations between Ghana and Japan, which he said dated back to 1928 when the late Japanese Researcher, Dr Noguchi, stepped on the shores of the then Gold Coast to examine the cause of yellow fever- a disease, which claimed his life. He said through the scientific effort of the pioneer researcher, a medical research centre christened Noguchi Research Centre had been established at the University of Ghana, Legon.

Alhaji Mahama said Japan had been very supportive of Ghana's development efforts, stressing that the volunteer programme, which focuses on the teaching of mathematics and science was a good example.

Mr Yutaka Nakamura, Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission at the Japanese Embassy, in Accra said the JOCV introduced in February 17, 1977 had helped to deepen bilateral relations. 06 Nov. 06