Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings, a Vice Chairperson of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), on Saturday called on adults to serve as good role models for children and the youth to emulate. She was speaking at the first graduation ceremony of the Outreach Africa (Free) Vocational Institute (OAVI) at Whindo, near Takoradi. Some 148 students, who have completed a two and a half years training in dress designing, hairdressing, draughtmanship, among others, were presented with certificates and start-up tools. Nana Konadu, who is also the President of the 31st December Women’s Movement, said adults would be doing a great disservice to their communities if they failed to set good example. The former First Lady said the youth, who form the larger percentage of the country’s population should be well prepared to take leadership responsibilities in future. She commended the OAVI for providing free vocational training to destitute, disadvantaged and needy children, to enable them to stand on their feet, to contribute to the upkeep of their families and the development of the country. Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings urged the graduates to put their tools to good use and endeavour to build upon the skills that have been acquired at the institute. She was not happy with the indiscriminate use of the Internet by children and suggested that, a framework be instituted to enable children to use it for educational purposes. Nii Amasah-Namoale, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, commended the Institute for taking children off the streets and equipping them to contribute to national development. He asked the graduates not to lose sight of their responsibilities to society which contributed towards their education. Brother Dan Owusu Asiamah, Founder and Director of the Institute, said about GH¢100,000 was spent on the training of the graduates. He said the Institute offers free vocational training and tuition and is run on donation from public spirited organizations and individuals. Brother Asiamah called on churches to help educate young people free of charge, for many are they who are denied access to education because of exorbitant fees charged at the schools. He said this practice is tarnishing the image of the churches, which should freely share what God has given them. Brother Asimah expressed concern about some churches having become public relations institutions for political parties. Source: GNA