Singapore, a nation that has continually captured my admiration, recently welcomed me once again to its shores for a business forum. This was my third visit to the Lion City, and with each return, I am struck by the remarkable qualities that define Singaporeans and their nation. As my experiences unfolded, I couldn’t help but ponder what Ghana can learn from Singapore—a land of cleanliness, orderliness, high literacy, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to national greatness.
Cleanliness and Orderliness:
Singapore’s impeccable cleanliness and orderliness are not the result of some magical formula but rather a testament to the diligence and civic pride of its citizens. The streets are spotless, and public spaces are meticulously maintained. Littering is almost non-existent because Singaporeans take personal responsibility for their environment. Ghana could draw inspiration from this and encourage a culture of cleanliness and orderliness, starting with individual responsibility.
High Literacy and Education:
Singapore boasts one of the world’s highest literacy rates. Its citizens understand that education is the cornerstone of progress. Investment in education has been a top priority for Singapore’s government and its people. In Ghana, we must prioritize education as a means to empower our citizens and pave the way for economic growth. (One reason I support the free SHS Policy fully. I wish we could do free tertiary for the next 20 years, and see what kind of country Ghana will be)
Hard Work and Ethical Values:
Singaporeans are renowned for their strong work ethic and ethical values. They are not just hardworking; they are also committed to ethical conduct in both personal and professional life. This dedication to integrity and hard work has helped Singapore achieve remarkable economic growth. Ghana can learn that prosperity is not merely the result of resources but also of a collective commitment to hard work and ethics.
Sense of Vision:
Singapore’s transformation from a small island with limited resources into a global economic powerhouse is a testament to its visionary leadership and strategic planning. Singaporeans have a shared sense of purpose and vision for their nation’s future. Ghana can benefit by nurturing a sense of vision, fostering leadership that looks beyond short-term gains, and involving its citizens in the nation’s development agenda.
Quest for National Greatness:
Perhaps the most inspiring lesson from Singapore is its relentless quest for national greatness. The Singaporean people have taken ownership of their country’s development. They didn’t wait for someone else to do it for them. They understand that the journey to greatness requires commitment, sacrifice, and unity. Ghana, too, can embark on this journey, guided by the spirit of self-reliance and a collective ambition to make our nation great.
Singapore’s achievements are not the result of external intervention but rather the determination and collective effort of its citizens. Ghana, with its own unique challenges and potential, can learn valuable lessons from Singapore. As we seek to build a brighter future for our nation, let us embrace the principles of cleanliness, education, hard work, vision, and a quest for greatness. Let us remember that the transformation we desire begins with us, the citizens, taking responsibility for our beloved Ghana’s destiny
Yɛn ara asaase ni;
Ɛyɛ abɔ den den de ma yεn,
Mogya a nananom hwie gu
Nya de to hɔ ma yɛn,
Aduru me ne wo nso so,
Sε yɛbɛyɛ bi atoa so. Nimdeɛ ntraso, nkoto-kranne;
Ne pɛsɛmenkomenya,
Adi yɛn bra mu dεm, ama yɛn asaase hɔ dɔ atomu sɛ
Ɔman no, sɛ ɛbɛyɛ yie o
Ɔman no, sɛ ɛrenyɛ yie o;
Ɛyɛ nsɛnnahɔ sɛ, Ɔmanfo bra na ɛkyerɛ.
Ɔman no, sɛ ɛbɛ yɛ yie o!
Ɔman no, sɛ ɛrenyɛ yie o!;
Ɛyɛ nsɛ nahɔ sɛ, Ɔmanfo bra na ɛkyerɛ
TWENEBOA-KODUAH D. Barrister-At-Law Ghana. This is the third time of visiting Singapore. I urge you to heed the age-old saying “Travel and See”. Take a trip to Singapore. Your perspectives about how nations are built will change if you do.
Do visit the Sentosa Island and the Marina Bay. Just these two, and come back and thank me.