File photo of the Kwame Nkrumah Museum
The Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB) has celebrated the International Day of Museums to project the importance of cultural heritage and preservation.
As part of this year’s International Museums Day activities, the GMMB is offering free access to the National Museum for all Basic and Senior High School students from May 18 to May 25, 2025.
This initiative aims to reinforce GMMB’s commitment to historical and cultural education, particularly among young individuals who are viewed as the future leaders of the country.
In an official statement jointly released by GMMB and the International Council of Museums (ICOM) Ghana, and signed by the Acting Executive Director, Mr. Kwesi Essel-Blankson, the public is encouraged to visit museums as part of a broader effort toward national transformation and cultural reorientation.
“We also appeal to the government for more support to give a premium to the role of the National Museum,” the statement read.
International Museums Day (IMD), observed annually on May 18, is an initiative by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) to raise awareness of the vital role museums play in culture preservation.
Each year, a theme is selected to reflect emerging global issues and the evolving functions of museums.
The theme for this year’s celebration is “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.”
This theme emphasises how museums are adapting to significant societal changes driven by technological innovation and environmental pressures, which increasingly threaten fragile cultures.
According to a report by insightghana.com.gh, the theme aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8, 9, and 11.
It indicated that museums contribute to local economies by fostering employment, embracing innovation, supporting sustainable urban development, and empowering individuals through education as cultural hubs that promote and preserve heritage.
In Ghana, museums play a crucial role in preserving the country’s historical narrative.
Established in 1957, it serves as the custodian of indigenous culture and colonial history – a vision, central to Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s commissioning of the National Museum on the eve of independence.
The statement, however, raised concerns about the lack of sufficient resources and support for the GMMB to fully realise its vision of promoting national unity and identity.
Despite these challenges, the board continues to significantly contribute to preserving Ghana’s cultural identity and fostering national cohesion through public education, community engagement, and accessible programming for everyone.
The GMMB remains committed to preserving Ghana’s rich cultural heritage for future generations while encouraging the public to visit museums to learn about the country’s history.
NAD/VPO
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