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Mr. Philip Aido, Municipal Director of Education for Korle Klottey, has urged pupils in basic schools to acquaint themselves with different forms of art, including poetry, to help promote unity and social cohesion.
Speaking at an interactive session to mark this year’s World Poetry Day in Accra, he emphasised the power of spoken words and encouraged young people to nurture their passion for the craft, which also serves as a tool for advocacy.
The 2025 World Poetry Day was themed: “Poetry for Peace and Unity.” The National Theatre of Ghana commemorated the event at the Osu Presbyterian Church Cluster of Schools, where pupils were introduced to the rudiments of poetry.
Some seasoned poets interacted with pupils on the significance of poetry, while engaging the learners with poetry recitals and writing contests. The activities were to encourage students to think creatively about peace and unity, and to express their thoughts and feelings through the arts.
“Poetry has long been a tool for advocacy, a medium for expressing emotions, and a means of bridging cultural and societal divides. It speaks to the heart, inspires action, and unites us in ways that transcend barriers of language and background….
“Use your words as instruments of peace and unity, May the verses you compose echo the ideals of love, tolerance, and togetherness that our society so dearly needs,” Mr Aido stated.
“Let us remember that poetry is not just an art form, it is a call to action, a voice for the voiceless, and a bridge that connects us all…Let us embrace it as a tool to inspire change and strengthen the bonds of unity within our communities and beyond,” he added.
Mr Aido thanked the National Theatre of Ghana for helping the pupils appreciate the essence of poetry, and the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Arts for preserving cultural values and creating opportunities for creative minds.
World Poetry Day, set up by the United Nations Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) is observed annually, on March 21, to celebrate poetry, promote linguistic diversity and encourage creative expression worldwide.
Source: GNA
