Accra, Feb. 8, GNA - Vice President John Dramani Mahama on Monday commended the Japanese Government for regularly posting volunteers under the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) to accelerate Ghana's socio economic development.
"Since 1977, when Ghana signed an agreement with Japan, she has constantly been a key beneficiary of JOCV in all fields of our endeavour," he added.
Vice President Mahama made the commendation when 10 new volunteers posted to Ghana paid a courtesy call on him in Accra.
They have already been posted to seven regions to teach Science, Mathematics, Home Science, HIV/AIDS Control, Agricultural Science and Youth organization.
Two each was posted to Northern, Central and Volta Regions and one each to Western, Eastern, Ashanti and Upper West Regions.
The volunteers would stay in their communities for two years to assist in guinea-worm eradication programme, teaching the Ghanaian youth music and sports, dressmaking, handicraft designing and agricultural engineering.
He urged them to learn all the Ghanaian values and teach their communities cherished values to make their stay in the country useful to Ghanaians and Japanese.
"Ghanaians are very hospitable, while Japanese have rich culture and the determination to work hard. I hope you will enjoy the Ghanaian hospitality and inculcate into Ghanaians the determination and encouragement to aspire for better development," he said.
Mr. Keiichi Katakami, Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, commended government for sustaining the programme over the years and pledged to strengthen the partnership between the two countries through constant interaction and support.
GNA
