A book on the collection of the 16 papers delivered during the public lectures in connection with Ghana's 50 years anniversary celebration was launched in Accra on Tuesday.

Nana Susubiribi Krobea Asante, Omanhene (Paramount Chief) of Asante Asokore Traditional Area launched the 413-page book, which was reviewed by Mr Ebow G.

Daniel, former Registrar of the University of Ghana whilst Justice Sophia A. B. Akuffo, Justice of the Supreme Court chaired the ceremony.

Nana Asante described the book as a fascinating display of intellectual depth and analytical prowess studded with exquisite pearls of wisdom, which covered virtually every facet of national endeavours - politics and governance, economy, health, science and technology.

The book covered areas such as culture, natural resources and environment, education and ethical issues, corruption, public service, developments in the larger African setting and finally the aspirations and perspectives of the younger generations.

Mr Alex Tettey-Enyo, Minister of Education described the book as a historic document, and encouraged the libraries and educational institutions to get copies for reference in their institutions.

The lectures covered themes including: "Championing Africa's Renaissance," by Mr Kofi Annan, former UN Secretary General; "The Struggle for Ghana's Independence, 1947 to 1957," by Professor Yaw Saffu; "The Degree of our Commitment to our national motto, Freedom and Justice; by Prof C. E. K. Kumado and "Our Cultural Values and National Orientation," by Prof. Kwame Gyekye.

Others were: "A Critical Assessment of the Management of Ghana's Natural Resources and the Environment," by Prof. Yaa Ntiamoa-Baidu; "Towards the African Renaissance: Contributions of an Economist," by Mr J. H. Mensah; "The dual Diaspora and the Tensions of Black Liberation," by Prof. Emeritus Ali A. Mazrui and "Ghana's Public Service: An assessment of its performance since Independence," by Dr K. B. Asante.

The rest were: "The Fight against Corruption as an Essential Factor in Development," by Mr Reginald E. Bannerman; "Research, Science and Technology as indispensable strategic Elements in Development," by Prof. Marian Ewurama Addy; "Ethical Issues in Education and the Future Of Our Youth," by Prof. Ivan Addae-Mensah; and "The Health of the Nation: Fifty Years after Independence," by the late Prof. J. O. M. Pobee.

The first copy of the book was auctioned for 1,000.00 Ghana cedis whilst the Ministry of Education bought 1,000 copies to be distributed to all the second cycle Institutions.

GNA