AMOSA 2001 hands over ICT lab as Aggrey Memorial marks 86 years of excellence

Aggrey Memorial A.M.E Zion Senior High School (SHS) in Cape Coast has marked its 86th anniversary with the commissioning and handover of a 50-seater ICT laboratory to enhance digital learning for students.

The modern facility, equipped with HP and V1 computers, internet connectivity and a projector, was donated by the 2001 year group (AMOSA 2001) as part of its 25th-anniversary legacy project.

The celebration, held on the theme “Building good leaders, shaping the future: The role of stakeholders”, brought together students, staff, alumni and parents.

Alumni support education

The President of AMOSA 2001, Joseph Baffoe, said the initiative was born out of a desire to “give back to the school for the impact it had on our lives” and to improve the quality of education for current and future students.

“We gifted the school with this ICT lab to facilitate learning, equip students with relevant digital skills, and ensure they thrive in today’s technology-driven world. We hope the students will maintain the facility so we can continue to support education in meaningful ways,” Mr Baffoe noted.

He further encouraged alumni to identify gaps and contribute towards building more hostels to accommodate the growing student population.

Leadership and responsibility

The guest speaker and President of the 1984 year group, Dr George Nana Sam Mends, reflected on leadership, responsibility and the role of stakeholders in shaping the future.

Drawing on his experience as a former student and athlete of the school, he emphasised that leadership was cultivated, not inherited.

“Leadership is not about titles, popularity, or position,” he said. “It is influence rooted in character, service, and integrity. A leader asks, ‘How can I help?’ rather than ‘What do I gain?’ True leadership is about making difficult choices for the greater good, standing firm in the face of adversity, and taking responsibility even when it is uncomfortable.”

Dr Mends encouraged students to adopt daily habits of honesty, discipline and accountability, stressing that small, consistent actions lay the foundation for lifelong success.

He also highlighted the role of schools, teachers and parents in developing leaders, noting that character formation begins at home and continues in the classroom.

“Every student here today has the potential to shape Ghana, Africa, and the world. The decisions you make now, the habits you form, and the values you uphold will determine whether your influence is constructive or destructive,” he warned.

He further called on alumni to deepen their engagement with the school.

“We must not only celebrate our alma mater in words but also in actions. Mentoring, supporting infrastructure projects, and guiding students’ career paths are ways we leave a legacy. Leadership development is collaborative; it requires all stakeholders working together to nurture the next generation.”

Headmistress outlines progress

The Headmistress, Dr Dorothy Adentwi-Hayford, emphasised the shared responsibility of students, parents, alumni and staff in shaping the school’s future.

She commended AMOSA 2001 for the ICT laboratory and highlighted ongoing projects, including a two-storey teachers’ flat and the expansion of water supply systems.

“This school has grown from humble beginnings to become a beacon of holistic education in Ghana. Our students deserve facilities that match their talent and potential. With the support of our alumni and parents, we can continue to create an environment where every student can excel academically and develop as a responsible, patriotic citizen,” Dr Adentwi-Hayford said.

Academic and sporting achievements

The Headmistress noted that the school recorded a 75 per cent pass rate in last year’s WASSCE and excelled in national and regional quiz competitions.

In sports, the school’s teams won medals in football, volleyball, handball, netball, basketball, table tennis and athletics.

Students highlight challenges

The Head Prefect, Renita Nartey, acknowledged the support of alumni and teachers in shaping students’ academic and moral development.

“The prizes we receive today are not just certificates; they represent sleepless nights, resilience, and discipline,” Renita said.

She, however, highlighted challenges, particularly the shortage of dormitory space, which has forced some students to share beds and affected hygiene.

“We are calling on stakeholders to come together to build a 500-capacity girls’ dormitory and more teachers’ flats. With better accommodation, students can thrive academically and socially, and teachers can supervise more effectively,” she urged.

Renita also cited recent improvements, including a borehole water project funded by parents, the SRC-led renovation of the assembly hall and public address system, and ongoing efforts to maintain sanitation and discipline on campus.

Honours and outreach

Outstanding students, including Ms Zuleyla Sulemana of the national under-17 female football team, were recognised for their achievements.

Six retirees, as well as deserving staff and students, were also honoured.

Earlier, the 2001 year group presented a photocopier, food items and sanitary supplies to the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind as part of its social responsibility initiatives.