The St. Paul’s Primary School in Navrongo has officially launched its centenary celebrations to mark 100 years of academic excellence and character formation since its establishment in 1926.
The launch event, held on the school’s premises on Friday, brought together a host of dignitaries including the Municipal Director of Education, the Municipal Chief Executive, teachers, learners, alumni, and community members.
Held under the theme “Celebrating 100 Years of Academic Excellence and Character Formation,” the ceremony celebrated the school’s long-standing contribution to education in the Kasena Nankana Municipality, while highlighting pressing challenges facing the institution.
In a heartfelt address, the Headmistress of the school described the centenary milestone as historic but expressed concern about the deteriorating state of infrastructure on campus.
“We are here and, as you have all seen around, you can judge for yourself. Most of our classrooms are falling apart; leaking roofs, broken walls, and uncomfortable furniture,” she lamented.
“These are not the kinds of conditions our children should be learning in. There is no electricity, no fans when it’s hot, no lights for dark days, and no power for modern learning tools.”
The Municipal Director of Education, Thomas Kanlisi, who is himself an alumnus of the school, praised St. Paul’s for its enduring legacy and significant impact on the local community and beyond.
“Two weeks after taking office, I visited my school. A spirit of happiness filled me. Though enrolment has declined in some classes, the legacy of St. Paul’s remains. It is the richest of all schools in Navrongo, not financially, but in the resources and values it has given to mother Ghana.” He said
The Guest of honour and Municipal Chief Executive, Faustina Abulu, pledged the Assembly’s full support in addressing the school’s challenges. She committed to building new facilities and improving basic amenities.
“I will put up a school here a very nice one. Are you having challenges with water? I’ll drill a borehole. All the necessary things you need, come to me. Label them on my table. I will work on them.” She assured.
The colourful event was graced with poetry recitals and choreography performances by pupils. The centenary celebration was officially launched by alumni of the school, who pledged to rally support from past students across the country and beyond.
Mike 105.3 FM | Navrongo | Alexander Kubabom
