By: Angela Adu-Asomaning and Elizabeth Agyeiwaa Denkyi
The Ghana Scout Association has joined the World Organization of the Scout Movement to commemorate the birthday of Scouting founder Robert Baiden-Powell a man whose vision gave birth to one of the world’s most impactful youth movements.
In an interview with Radio Ghana, the Greater Accra Regional Scout Commissioner, Mr Kwakye Agyei, described Scouting as a disciplined global movement that empowers young people with values, leadership skills, and a strong sense of responsibility.
“Scout is a disciplined organisation all over the world. So if you are part of Scout, you have to enjoy the benefits of Scouting. And the benefit is, it trains you to become a good citizen,”he added.
The Greater Accra Regional Secretary, Michael Poku-Mensah, expressed optimism that with sustained collaboration and increased publicity, the movement in Ghana will grow stronger in the coming years.
“There are 10 regions that have active scouts in them.But we do hope that, because it’s one of our targets, to reach out to all the regions and make sure that scouting is taking place in all 16 regions within the country,” he stated.
A Scout member shared his motivation for joining the Scout movement.
“I did my research and learnt that a scout must always be loyal and obedient,” he stated.
The Chief Commissioner of the Ghana Scout Association, Hilary Ewusi, called on the youth of the country to uphold discipline, responsibility and good moral virtues to secure their future in this day of confusing information from social media. He proposed Scouting as one of the surest ways to inculcate discipline and hard work in the youth, adding that scouting goes beyond just uniforms, badges, and ceremonies. Mr. Ewusi urged Scouts to recommit themselves to the Scout Promise and Scout Law. He was speaking at a ceremony to celebrate Founders’ Day of the Global Scout Movement held in Accra.
Scout Founder’s Day, observed annually on February 22, celebrates the birthday of Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting. This global event unites millions of Scouts worldwide in honoring the core values of the Scouting movement.
The day emphasizes Baden-Powell’s vision of fostering leadership, unity, life skills, discipline, and community service among young people.
Last year’s Founder’s Day celebration attracted about 50 participants,but this year’s event recorded close to 500, an indication that the Scout movement is regaining its strength and relevance.
Activities for the children included obstacle crossing, lime-and-spoon games, horse riding, face painting, and several other fun and educational activities.
