Juaso (Ash), March 6, GNA - Hundreds of school children in the Asante-Ak= im South District, on Sunday, took part in the 54th independence anniversary parade held at the Juaso Senior High School (SHS).

They were drawn from both the public and private schools. Among the large gathering gathered at the parade grounds were parents, assembly members, heads of decentralized department and the security services.

Mr De-Graft Fokuo, the District Chief Executive (DCE), said the day was meant to celebrate 93our heroes and heroines, through whose hard work and blood the nation achieved independence."

He noted that in spite of the numerous challenges, Ghana had made significant strides towards socio-economic and political progress, since it= s attainment of nationhood. The DCE particularly lauded the nation's achievement in the areas of democracy and good governance, which had made it a beacon of hope for Africa.

He advised students to stay away from drugs, alcoholism and other anti-social vices that could render the huge investment made in them by their parents and government useless.