The Ghanaian youth have been urged to develop a high sense of nationalism and patriotism to spearhead the development of the country. They are to champion the course of nationalism in light of the declining spirit of patriotism, selflessness, hard work and dedication to service. The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ms. Joyce Aryee, made the appeal during the Greater Accra Regional Council of the Boys Brigade, Ghana, 25th annual regional delegate conference in Accra. The Conference was to give the council the opportunity to review their 10 years of service, restructure their plans for the best results. Speaking under the theme: "Moving forward- The youth as champions of Nationalism" , Ms. Aryee, in a speech read on her behalf said although there is too little sense of nationalistic pride among Ghanaians today, nationalism had a very strong influence on the people in the struggle for independence. She said great sons of Ghana suffered a great deal during the colonial regime but at the end of the turbulent times their sacrifices paid off. She noted that the promotion of unity, integrity and patriotism among the youth were areas that needed serious attention because of their crucial importance to the survival of the country's heritage. Ms. Aryee said the beauty of our diversity as a people in terms of ethnicity, political persuasion or religious affiliation would be meaningless if they allowed it to degenerate into tribalism, political intolerance and religious conflict. "If we could call ourselves Ghanaians and be proud of whom we are, our diversities will rather be used to enhance the overall development of the nation," she added. She said it was unfortunate that after several years of independence and in spite of all that the country had done for Ghanaians they fail to share the conviction that this is the only country they have and must cherish and uphold. "Patriotism to one's country goes beyond singing the national anthem or supporting the national football team but requires the love that drives one into acquiring and applying values and ethics that leads to high productivity, civic responsibility and national preservation. Patriotism also calls for sacrifice at all times..." she said. Source: GNA