As Ghana approaches its 68th Independence Day Anniversary, the National Celebrations Planning Committee (NCPC) has outlined a series of activities to mark the occasion.
The celebrations, which will include historical commemorations, educational competitions, and a grand ceremonial parade, are expected to reignite patriotism among Ghanaians, particularly the youth.
Ghana became the first sub-Saharan African country to gain its independence on March 6, 1957. Dr Kwame Nkrumah, who was responsible for the successful negotiations with the British and declared independence, became the first Prime Minister and then President of Ghana.
This year’s festivities will begin with the commemoration of the “28th February Crossroad Shooting Incident,” an event that reminds the country of the sacrifices made in the fight for its independence.
The anniversary will also feature a nationwide school quiz competition, a national debate, a special presidential award for outstanding schoolchildren, and the much-anticipated “ceremonial parade at the Forecourt of the Presidency on March 6, 2025”.
“The ’28th February Wreath Laying Ceremony’ remains one of the most significant events in Ghana’s independence narrative. This year, the Communications Subcommittee of the NCPC will adopt a fresh approach to rekindle public interest, especially among the youth, in this pivotal moment of Ghanaian history”.
Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu (MP for Abura Asebu Kwamankese), Spokesperson to the President, and Minister of Government Communications
The committee has planned a robust media campaign involving television, radio, and social media to educate the public on the events that led to the fatal shooting of three ex-servicemen—Sergeant Adjetey, Corporal Attipoe, and Private Odartey Lamptey—by colonial forces in 1948.
As part of efforts to deepen historical awareness, the Communications Subcommittee of the National Celebrations Planning Committee (NCPC) is set to host an X-space discussion on the “Changing Face of Civil Protests in Ghana: Lessons from the Past and Present.”
This conversation will explore the evolution of protests in Ghana, drawing insights from both historical and contemporary movements.
Additionally, radio, television, and online media platforms have been encouraged to create discussions that align with the anniversary’s theme to enhance public engagement.
The wreath-laying ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Nationalism Park at 8:00 a.m. on February 28, 2025. It will be broadcast live and streamed across multiple platforms to ensure widespread participation.
The government has encouraged media houses, bloggers, and citizens to actively share content about the event to keep the spirit of remembrance alive.
Nationwide Competitions to Engage Students
In the spirit of fostering national pride and academic excellence, two major competitions will be held as part of the celebrations.
The finals of a nationwide school quiz competition will take place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, testing students’ knowledge of Ghana’s history, governance, and culture.
Similarly, the final round of a nationwide debate competition is set for Tuesday, March 4, 2025. These contests are expected to inspire intellectual curiosity and promote critical thinking among students.
The President’s School Children Awards Programme, scheduled for Wednesday, March 5, 2025, will celebrate exceptional students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and leadership qualities.
This annual event serves as a platform to encourage and motivate young Ghanaians to strive for excellence in their respective fields.
Grand Independence Day Parade at the Forecourt of the Presidency
The ceremonial parade, which will take place on March 6, 2025, at the Presidency’s Forecourt, will be the climax of the celebrations.
This grand event will bring together government officials, security forces, schoolchildren, and citizens from all walks of life to mark 68 years of Ghana’s independence.
As the nation prepares for this momentous occasion, Ghanaians are encouraged to reflect on their journey to independence and their shared responsibility for building a prosperous future.
The NCPC has assured the public that additional updates on the celebrations will be provided in due course.
With a mix of historical commemorations, intellectual engagements, and patriotic displays, the NCPC assured that Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary promises to be a memorable and inspiring event for all citizens.
