Vice President Alhaji Aliu Mahama and some Ministers of State, on Tuesday spent more than seven hours touring a number of basic schools in the Accra Metropolis, to welcome the pupils who were on their first day in School. The day marks the beginning of the first term of the year-long academic calendar, during which fresh pupils are admitted while the old ones are promoted. Alhaji Mahama visited the Five Garrison Schools at Burma Camp comprising Garrison, Burma and Kotoka Basic schools, Association International School, Kwabenya Atomic D/A Three Primary School and Taifa Community School. Ms Elizabeth Ohene, Minister of State and officials from the Ministry of Education supported the Vice President to distribute chocolates, footballs and learning materials to the enthusiastic pupils, who in turn cheered and sang for the entourage. At Burma Camp, the Deputy Minister of Defence, Mr William Boafo and the Military Command joined Alhaji Mahama to take the national salute from the rendition of the National Anthem by the school’s brass band. Alhaji Mahama asked the pupils, especially those in Kindergarten and Primary One to take their lessons seriously in order to meet their aspirations in life. “What you would become in future will be decided today. You have a long journey ahead but I believe you will be able to make it in life. “Listen to your teachers and obey their instructions.” Colonel Ken Osei, Director of Education of the Ghana Armed Forces, said the 59 schools under his outfit had an impressive academic record that was promoting the academic drive of the country. Source: GNA