Bole (N/R), Jan. 10, GNA - Mr J.N. Vugu, National President of the Vagla Youth Association, has called on the people of the Bole District to channel their resources into farming and the education of their children instead of purchasing firearms, which could plunge the area into a disaster.
Mr Vugu who was addressing the National Congress of the Association at Mandari near Bole, expressed concern about the discovery of sophisticated firearms by the military during a recent swoop in parts of the district.
He noted that the stockpiling of arms was an indication of mistrust among some of the ethnic groups and urged the people not to see themselves as rivals.
Mr Vugu called for regular public forums during which the various ethnic groups would be given the opportunity to voice out their concerns to ease tension in the area.
He said, "Peace and unity are of paramount importance as the country enters an election year," adding, "it is common knowledge that as elections approach, tension usually mounts".
The National President urged politicians to campaign on issues instead of personalities on their platforms, saying: "Let us all resolve to elect leaders who can help us forge ahead in development instead of resorting to ethnic sentiments".
Speaking on, "Improving access to education in the Vagla communities," Mr Eddie Telly, Northern Regional Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), expressed concern over the high rate of school dropouts, particularly girls, in the district.
He identified the lack of school infrastructure and the unwillingness of parents to send their children to school as some of the factors leading to the downward trend of education. Mr Telly advised parents to see the education of their children as the key to their future development and called on the Vagla youth to create the necessary awareness among the people on the need for education.
The District Chief Executive, Alhaji Sulemana Adams Achanso, said the area was endowed with both human and material resources, which if properly harnessed, would ensure the rapid development of the district. 10 Jan 04
