Accra, August 6, GNA - Professor Dominic Fobih, the newly appointed Minister of Education, Science and Sports (MESS) has officially assumed duty at the ministry after a brief handing over ceremony held on Monday. He takes over from Papa Owusu Ankomah, who resigned recently from the government in pursuance of his presidential ambitions as he seeks to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2008 presidential elections.

Professor Fobih described the new appointment as a challenging one especially when it is coming at the dawn of the historic Ghana 2008 Africa Cup of Nations and introduction of the new educational reforms. "I also see the new position as an opportunity to assess myself as an educationist and a professional, hence the need to make an impact."

According to the Minister, ensuring that all structures are put in place before the commencement of the historic CAN 2008 next year as well as the successful implementation of the new educational reforms demands 24 hours serious works from all departments and agencies under the Ministry.

Prof. Fobih said the huge task at hand cannot be implemented without the cooperation of other stakeholders and asked for their collective cooperation to achieve set targets.

The outgoing minister, Papa Ankomah also described the Ministry as the focal point of all since it deals with the passions of the nation.

"We are in a country where everybody is interested in sports and each citizen sees himself/herself as a coach capable of handling any of the national teams, whilst there are schools in every corner and everyone looks up to you for direction.

"But I believe the Ministry is in capable hands and I have no doubts that he will succeed.

"The task is enormous but have no excuse to pass the buck, it will always stop at your end and with you, that is why you need to be on your toes all the time in order to achieve your targets." Papa Ankomah stated.

He, however, called on all Agencies and Departments under the Ministry to lend their support to the new minister to ensure the successful completion of their stay in office.