Achimota School
Encyclopedia
Achimota School is an elite and highly selective co-educational secondary school located at Achimota
in Accra
, Ghana
. It was established and commenced operations in 1924 and formally opened in 1927 by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg -- then governor of the Gold Coast
. The school was founded by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg, Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey and Rev. Alexander (Alec) Garden Fraser.
The school has educated many African leaders, including Kwame Nkrumah
, Edward Akufo-Addo
, Jerry John Rawlings
, all of whom are former Heads of State of Ghana. The current President of Ghana, John Evans Atta Mills, is also a product of Achimota School. Former Prime Minister Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia
taught at Achimota. Also included in its list of African Heads of State are Robert Mugabe
of Zimbabwe
, and Sir Dawda Jawara
, first Head of State of The Gambia
. An alumnus/alumna of Achimota is known as an "AKORA".
The motto of the school is "Ut Omnes Unum Sint" meaning "That All May Be One", a reference to the abiding philosophy of the Founders that, starting in the context of school life, black and white, male and female, should integrate and combine synergistically for the good of all. This is also graphically represented by the symbolised black and white piano keys emblem of the school.
Having girls learning side-by-side with boys in the 1920s was a brazen idea. But all three idealistic founders had strong reformist tendencies, and they were determined to create a school that would be a model for all of West Africa—a school that would educate Ghanaian boys and girls so well that they would be completely at ease in both traditional culture and western settings. Their vision was to produce a class of intellectually bi-cultural leaders whose training would enable them to act as interpreters and brokers for European and African ideas, fully able to take over their country’s government when the time inevitably came for the British to leave. Ahead of its time, the idea was simultaneously idealistic and radical. It was from this vision of synthesis that the famous piano-key design of the Achimota School crest emerged. Said Aggrey at the time, “You can play a tune of sorts on the black keys only; and you can play a tune of sorts on the white keys only; but for perfect harmony, you must use both the black and the white keys.”
Achimota School (formerly Prince of Wales
College and School, Achimota, now nicknamed Motown), is an elite and highly selective co-educational secondary school located at Achimota
in Accra
, Ghana
. It was established and commenced operations in 1924 and formally opened in 1927 by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg -- then governor of the Gold Coast
. The school was founded by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg, Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey and Rev. Alexander (Alec) Garden Fraser.
The school has educated many African leaders, including Kwame Nkrumah
, Edward Akufo-Addo
, Jerry John Rawlings
, all of whom are former Heads of State of Ghana. The current President of Ghana, John Evans Atta Mills, is also a product of Achimota School. Former Prime Minister Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia
taught at Achimota. Also included in its list of African Heads of State are Robert Mugabe
of Zimbabwe
, and Sir Dawda Jawara
, first Head of State of The Gambia
. An alumnus/alumna of Achimota is known as an "AKORA".
The motto of the school is "Ut Omnes Unum Sint" meaning "That All May Be One", a reference to the abiding philosophy of the Founders that, starting in the context of school life, black and white, male and female, should integrate and combine synergistically for the good of all. This is also graphically represented by the symbolised black and white piano keys emblem of the school.
Having girls learning side-by-side with boys in the 1920s was a brazen idea. But all three idealistic founders had strong reformist tendencies, and they were determined to create a school that would be a model for all of West Africa—a school that would educate Ghanaian boys and girls so well that they would be completely at ease in both traditional culture and western settings. Their vision was to produce a class of intellectually bi-cultural leaders whose training would enable them to act as interpreters and brokers for European and African ideas, fully able to take over their country’s government when the time inevitably came for the British to leave. Ahead of its time, the idea was simultaneously idealistic and radical. It was from this vision of synthesis that the famous piano-key design of the Achimota School crest emerged. Said Aggrey at the time, “You can play a tune of sorts on the black keys only; and you can play a tune of sorts on the white keys only; but for perfect harmony, you must use both the black and the white keys.”
Achimota School (formerly Prince of Wales
College and School, Achimota, now nicknamed Motown), is an elite and highly selective co-educational secondary school located at Achimota
in Accra
, Ghana
. It was established and commenced operations in 1924 and formally opened in 1927 by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg -- then governor of the Gold Coast
. The school was founded by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg, Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey and Rev. Alexander (Alec) Garden Fraser.
The school has educated many African leaders, including Kwame Nkrumah
, Edward Akufo-Addo
, Jerry John Rawlings
, all of whom are former Heads of State of Ghana. The current President of Ghana, John Evans Atta Mills, is also a product of Achimota School. Former Prime Minister Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia
taught at Achimota. Also included in its list of African Heads of State are Robert Mugabe
of Zimbabwe
, and Sir Dawda Jawara
, first Head of State of The Gambia
. An alumnus/alumna of Achimota is known as an "AKORA".
The motto of the school is "Ut Omnes Unum Sint" meaning "That All May Be One", a reference to the abiding philosophy of the Founders that, starting in the context of school life, black and white, male and female, should integrate and combine synergistically for the good of all. This is also graphically represented by the symbolised black and white piano keys emblem of the school.
Having girls learning side-by-side with boys in the 1920s was a brazen idea. But all three idealistic founders had strong reformist tendencies, and they were determined to create a school that would be a model for all of West Africa—a school that would educate Ghanaian boys and girls so well that they would be completely at ease in both traditional culture and western settings. Their vision was to produce a class of intellectually bi-cultural leaders whose training would enable them to act as interpreters and brokers for European and African ideas, fully able to take over their country’s government when the time inevitably came for the British to leave. Ahead of its time, the idea was simultaneously idealistic and radical. It was from this vision of synthesis that the famous piano-key design of the Achimota School crest emerged. Said Aggrey at the time, “You can play a tune of sorts on the black keys only; and you can play a tune of sorts on the white keys only; but for perfect harmony, you must use both the black and the white keys.”
Achimota School occupies over two square miles of prime real estate in the middle of the Achimota forest reserve in the Accra Metropolitan Area. The school's colonial architecture and well-planned landscape make it visually pleasing to tour the campus and its wooded countryside-like surroundings. The campus facilities comprise a library, a cadet square, two chapels, one of which is the famous Aggrey Memorial Chapel; three dining halls, two gymnasia, the Achimota School Post Office, very extensive sports playing fields, a swimming pool, a cricket oval, basketball court, tennis and squash courts, and an arboretum. There are several bungalows on campus for all teaching staff members.
A description of Achimota School at its inception is provided below:
Located close to the school's central campus are the Achimota Golf Course, the Achimota School Police Station, a staff village for the School's non-teaching employees, a forest reserve, a large farm, and the 45-bed Achimota Hospital that serves the School's students, employees and their families, as well as the community surrounding the campus.
There are two departments, two designated Schools, and a Home Science Unit responsible for the teaching of the subjects offered. The schools and departments are:
The School currently offers programmes of study of three-year/nine-term duration, leading to the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (W.A.S.S.C.E.) in any of the following courses
In addition to three or four elective subjects taken by every student in one programme of study, each student is required to take the four Core Subjects in Core/General Mathematics, English Language, Integrated Science and Social Studies. In all, each student takes seven or eight subjects (depending on the programme) during each term of their three-year secondary school career leading to sitting of the regional examination, W.A.S.S.C.E. administered by the West African Examinations Council (W.A.E.C.) in May of their final year.
Also, in their first two years, students are required to take Physical Education and Religious and Moral Education every term, taught by the Sports and Chaplaincy departments respectively.
"E" indicates that the house in located on the Eastern compound while "W" stands for Western compound.
You should also visit the OAA website to learn more about the School's ongoing needs and for updates on projects and the response to the sanitation crisis.
This annual October walk is organised by the Old Achimotan Association (O.A.A) to raise funds for school projects. The highest fund raising house receives a prize afterward. In the afternoon, the school’s Students’ Representative Council (S.R.C) organises a fun fair and talent show known as Mo’fiesta (an abbreviation for Motown Fiesta). Other secondary schools are usually invited.
This festival is held yearly on a warm breezy mid-December night just before the Christmas holidays. The traditional Christmas verses from the scriptures are read out by school administrators, school prefects, alumni executives and other personalities. Music is provided by the renowned Aggrey Memorial Chapel Choir. The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is fashioned on the original format from Kings College, Cambridge.
The first weekend of every March is very busy with the Founders’ Day celebrations to honour the selflessness of the three founding fathers: Aggrey, Fraser and Guggisberg. There is always a parade by the Achimota School Cadet Corps, first of its kind in Ghanaian second-cycle institutions. Over the years the Corps have produced cadets who have gone on, after completing their education, to join the Army, Air Force and Navy, serving their country with distinction. The Corps is supported by the Ghana Army, with the Recce (Reconnaissance) Regiment as its mother unit. The school cadet was established in 1955 under the supervision of Ghana Armed Forces during the independence era. The Headmistress/Principal inspects the guard of honour. The Ghana Armed Forces Military Band plays wonderful tunes as young cadet corps march.
There is always a standing ovation of appreciation during the march.
On Saturday afternoon, there is the actual Founders' Day ceremony where each ethnic or cultural group displays its rich heritage through a medley of traditional dances and music. There are the Girls’ and Boys’ Choruses that sing praise songs in appreciation of the Founders.
The ceremony ends with the Achimota School Yell by students and alumni. Also, the year group celebrating its golden jubilee anniversary of leaving Achimota formally presents its grand development project for the school. Some projects in the past have included refurbishing the school’s tower clock known as the Big Ben (nicknamed after that of the great bell of the Palace of Westminster
, London), expansion of cold rooms in the dining halls, Internet networking of buildings and water projects and restoration of the Art School. A Thanksgiving Service is held on the following Sunday at the Aggrey Memorial Chapel to round off the Founders' Day weekend's activities.
The names of prize winners over the decades, up to date, have been recorded permanently on a board displayed to public view inside the entrance to the School's Administration Block.
The biggest event of the year is the Inter-house Athletics held in February. There are several track and field events, and it is the time when a student athlete can become a hero by breaking a school record. In the third term, the other big event, the Inter- house Eight-Aside Cricket Competition is held. Being the only school in Ghana with a cricket oval, the field attracts the National Cricket Team as well as members of the expatriate community from Commonwealth cricket-playing countries such as India, Pakistan and Jamaica.
This event is usually held in late April by the outgoing executive of the Student Representative Council to award seniors who have excelled in the areas of personality, leadership and participation in extracurricular activities on the basis of nominations by the entire student body. There is also a special award for Student's Favourite Teacher. As a formal event, there are musical performances and renditions in-between awards and the attire is also formal.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scWPq3fcPx4&feature=geosearch
Achimota
Achimota is a town in Greater Accra Region, Ghana just north of the capital Accra....
in Accra
Accra
Accra is the capital and largest city of Ghana, with an urban population of 1,658,937 according to the 2000 census. Accra is also the capital of the Greater Accra Region and of the Accra Metropolitan District, with which it is coterminous...
, Ghana
Ghana
Ghana , officially the Republic of Ghana, is a country located in West Africa. It is bordered by Côte d'Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south...
. It was established and commenced operations in 1924 and formally opened in 1927 by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg -- then governor of the Gold Coast
Gold Coast (British colony)
The Gold Coast was a British colony on the Gulf of Guinea in west Africa that became the independent nation of Ghana in 1957.-Overview:The first Europeans to arrive at the coast were the Portuguese in 1471. They encountered a variety of African kingdoms, some of which controlled substantial...
. The school was founded by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg, Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey and Rev. Alexander (Alec) Garden Fraser.
The school has educated many African leaders, including Kwame Nkrumah
Kwame Nkrumah
Kwame Nkrumah was the leader of Ghana and its predecessor state, the Gold Coast, from 1952 to 1966. Overseeing the nation's independence from British colonial rule in 1957, Nkrumah was the first President of Ghana and the first Prime Minister of Ghana...
, Edward Akufo-Addo
Edward Akufo-Addo
Edward Akufo-Addo was a politician and lawyer in Ghana. He was one of the Big Six in the fight for Ghana's independence. He also became the Chief Justice and later President of the Republic of Ghana.-Education:...
, Jerry John Rawlings
Jerry Rawlings
Jerry John Rawlings is a former leader of the Republic of Ghana and now the African Union envoy to Somalia. Rawlings ruled Ghana as a military dictator in 1979 and from 1981 to 1992 and then as the first elected president of the Fourth Republic from 1993 to 2001...
, all of whom are former Heads of State of Ghana. The current President of Ghana, John Evans Atta Mills, is also a product of Achimota School. Former Prime Minister Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia
Kofi Abrefa Busia
Kofi Abrefa Busia was Prime Minister of Ghana from 1969–72. He was born in Wenchi, in the then British colony of Gold Coast . He was educated at Methodist School, Wenchi, Mfantsipim School, Cape Coast, then at Wesley College, Kumasi from 1931–32. He later became a teacher at Achimota Secondary...
taught at Achimota. Also included in its list of African Heads of State are Robert Mugabe
Robert Mugabe
Robert Gabriel Mugabe is the President of Zimbabwe. As one of the leaders of the liberation movement against white-minority rule, he was elected into power in 1980...
of Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in the southern part of the African continent, between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers. It is bordered by South Africa to the south, Botswana to the southwest, Zambia and a tip of Namibia to the northwest and Mozambique to the east. Zimbabwe has three...
, and Sir Dawda Jawara
Dawda Jawara
Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, GCMG was the first leader of The Gambia, serving first as Prime Minister from 1962 to 1970 and then as President from 1970 to 1994....
, first Head of State of The Gambia
The Gambia
The Republic of The Gambia, commonly referred to as The Gambia, or Gambia , is a country in West Africa. Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa, surrounded by Senegal except for a short coastline on the Atlantic Ocean in the west....
. An alumnus/alumna of Achimota is known as an "AKORA".
The motto of the school is "Ut Omnes Unum Sint" meaning "That All May Be One", a reference to the abiding philosophy of the Founders that, starting in the context of school life, black and white, male and female, should integrate and combine synergistically for the good of all. This is also graphically represented by the symbolised black and white piano keys emblem of the school.
Having girls learning side-by-side with boys in the 1920s was a brazen idea. But all three idealistic founders had strong reformist tendencies, and they were determined to create a school that would be a model for all of West Africa—a school that would educate Ghanaian boys and girls so well that they would be completely at ease in both traditional culture and western settings. Their vision was to produce a class of intellectually bi-cultural leaders whose training would enable them to act as interpreters and brokers for European and African ideas, fully able to take over their country’s government when the time inevitably came for the British to leave. Ahead of its time, the idea was simultaneously idealistic and radical. It was from this vision of synthesis that the famous piano-key design of the Achimota School crest emerged. Said Aggrey at the time, “You can play a tune of sorts on the black keys only; and you can play a tune of sorts on the white keys only; but for perfect harmony, you must use both the black and the white keys.”
Historical background
Prince of Wales
Prince of Wales is a title traditionally granted to the heir apparent to the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the 15 other independent Commonwealth realms...
College and School, Achimota, now nicknamed Motown), is an elite and highly selective co-educational secondary school located at Achimota
Achimota
Achimota is a town in Greater Accra Region, Ghana just north of the capital Accra....
in Accra
Accra
Accra is the capital and largest city of Ghana, with an urban population of 1,658,937 according to the 2000 census. Accra is also the capital of the Greater Accra Region and of the Accra Metropolitan District, with which it is coterminous...
, Ghana
Ghana
Ghana , officially the Republic of Ghana, is a country located in West Africa. It is bordered by Côte d'Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south...
. It was established and commenced operations in 1924 and formally opened in 1927 by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg -- then governor of the Gold Coast
Gold Coast (British colony)
The Gold Coast was a British colony on the Gulf of Guinea in west Africa that became the independent nation of Ghana in 1957.-Overview:The first Europeans to arrive at the coast were the Portuguese in 1471. They encountered a variety of African kingdoms, some of which controlled substantial...
. The school was founded by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg, Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey and Rev. Alexander (Alec) Garden Fraser.
The school has educated many African leaders, including Kwame Nkrumah
Kwame Nkrumah
Kwame Nkrumah was the leader of Ghana and its predecessor state, the Gold Coast, from 1952 to 1966. Overseeing the nation's independence from British colonial rule in 1957, Nkrumah was the first President of Ghana and the first Prime Minister of Ghana...
, Edward Akufo-Addo
Edward Akufo-Addo
Edward Akufo-Addo was a politician and lawyer in Ghana. He was one of the Big Six in the fight for Ghana's independence. He also became the Chief Justice and later President of the Republic of Ghana.-Education:...
, Jerry John Rawlings
Jerry Rawlings
Jerry John Rawlings is a former leader of the Republic of Ghana and now the African Union envoy to Somalia. Rawlings ruled Ghana as a military dictator in 1979 and from 1981 to 1992 and then as the first elected president of the Fourth Republic from 1993 to 2001...
, all of whom are former Heads of State of Ghana. The current President of Ghana, John Evans Atta Mills, is also a product of Achimota School. Former Prime Minister Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia
Kofi Abrefa Busia
Kofi Abrefa Busia was Prime Minister of Ghana from 1969–72. He was born in Wenchi, in the then British colony of Gold Coast . He was educated at Methodist School, Wenchi, Mfantsipim School, Cape Coast, then at Wesley College, Kumasi from 1931–32. He later became a teacher at Achimota Secondary...
taught at Achimota. Also included in its list of African Heads of State are Robert Mugabe
Robert Mugabe
Robert Gabriel Mugabe is the President of Zimbabwe. As one of the leaders of the liberation movement against white-minority rule, he was elected into power in 1980...
of Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in the southern part of the African continent, between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers. It is bordered by South Africa to the south, Botswana to the southwest, Zambia and a tip of Namibia to the northwest and Mozambique to the east. Zimbabwe has three...
, and Sir Dawda Jawara
Dawda Jawara
Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, GCMG was the first leader of The Gambia, serving first as Prime Minister from 1962 to 1970 and then as President from 1970 to 1994....
, first Head of State of The Gambia
The Gambia
The Republic of The Gambia, commonly referred to as The Gambia, or Gambia , is a country in West Africa. Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa, surrounded by Senegal except for a short coastline on the Atlantic Ocean in the west....
. An alumnus/alumna of Achimota is known as an "AKORA".
The motto of the school is "Ut Omnes Unum Sint" meaning "That All May Be One", a reference to the abiding philosophy of the Founders that, starting in the context of school life, black and white, male and female, should integrate and combine synergistically for the good of all. This is also graphically represented by the symbolised black and white piano keys emblem of the school.
Having girls learning side-by-side with boys in the 1920s was a brazen idea. But all three idealistic founders had strong reformist tendencies, and they were determined to create a school that would be a model for all of West Africa—a school that would educate Ghanaian boys and girls so well that they would be completely at ease in both traditional culture and western settings. Their vision was to produce a class of intellectually bi-cultural leaders whose training would enable them to act as interpreters and brokers for European and African ideas, fully able to take over their country’s government when the time inevitably came for the British to leave. Ahead of its time, the idea was simultaneously idealistic and radical. It was from this vision of synthesis that the famous piano-key design of the Achimota School crest emerged. Said Aggrey at the time, “You can play a tune of sorts on the black keys only; and you can play a tune of sorts on the white keys only; but for perfect harmony, you must use both the black and the white keys.”
Historical background
Prince of Wales
Prince of Wales is a title traditionally granted to the heir apparent to the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the 15 other independent Commonwealth realms...
College and School, Achimota, now nicknamed Motown), is an elite and highly selective co-educational secondary school located at Achimota
Achimota
Achimota is a town in Greater Accra Region, Ghana just north of the capital Accra....
in Accra
Accra
Accra is the capital and largest city of Ghana, with an urban population of 1,658,937 according to the 2000 census. Accra is also the capital of the Greater Accra Region and of the Accra Metropolitan District, with which it is coterminous...
, Ghana
Ghana
Ghana , officially the Republic of Ghana, is a country located in West Africa. It is bordered by Côte d'Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south...
. It was established and commenced operations in 1924 and formally opened in 1927 by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg -- then governor of the Gold Coast
Gold Coast (British colony)
The Gold Coast was a British colony on the Gulf of Guinea in west Africa that became the independent nation of Ghana in 1957.-Overview:The first Europeans to arrive at the coast were the Portuguese in 1471. They encountered a variety of African kingdoms, some of which controlled substantial...
. The school was founded by Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg, Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey and Rev. Alexander (Alec) Garden Fraser.
The school has educated many African leaders, including Kwame Nkrumah
Kwame Nkrumah
Kwame Nkrumah was the leader of Ghana and its predecessor state, the Gold Coast, from 1952 to 1966. Overseeing the nation's independence from British colonial rule in 1957, Nkrumah was the first President of Ghana and the first Prime Minister of Ghana...
, Edward Akufo-Addo
Edward Akufo-Addo
Edward Akufo-Addo was a politician and lawyer in Ghana. He was one of the Big Six in the fight for Ghana's independence. He also became the Chief Justice and later President of the Republic of Ghana.-Education:...
, Jerry John Rawlings
Jerry Rawlings
Jerry John Rawlings is a former leader of the Republic of Ghana and now the African Union envoy to Somalia. Rawlings ruled Ghana as a military dictator in 1979 and from 1981 to 1992 and then as the first elected president of the Fourth Republic from 1993 to 2001...
, all of whom are former Heads of State of Ghana. The current President of Ghana, John Evans Atta Mills, is also a product of Achimota School. Former Prime Minister Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia
Kofi Abrefa Busia
Kofi Abrefa Busia was Prime Minister of Ghana from 1969–72. He was born in Wenchi, in the then British colony of Gold Coast . He was educated at Methodist School, Wenchi, Mfantsipim School, Cape Coast, then at Wesley College, Kumasi from 1931–32. He later became a teacher at Achimota Secondary...
taught at Achimota. Also included in its list of African Heads of State are Robert Mugabe
Robert Mugabe
Robert Gabriel Mugabe is the President of Zimbabwe. As one of the leaders of the liberation movement against white-minority rule, he was elected into power in 1980...
of Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in the southern part of the African continent, between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers. It is bordered by South Africa to the south, Botswana to the southwest, Zambia and a tip of Namibia to the northwest and Mozambique to the east. Zimbabwe has three...
, and Sir Dawda Jawara
Dawda Jawara
Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, GCMG was the first leader of The Gambia, serving first as Prime Minister from 1962 to 1970 and then as President from 1970 to 1994....
, first Head of State of The Gambia
The Gambia
The Republic of The Gambia, commonly referred to as The Gambia, or Gambia , is a country in West Africa. Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa, surrounded by Senegal except for a short coastline on the Atlantic Ocean in the west....
. An alumnus/alumna of Achimota is known as an "AKORA".
The motto of the school is "Ut Omnes Unum Sint" meaning "That All May Be One", a reference to the abiding philosophy of the Founders that, starting in the context of school life, black and white, male and female, should integrate and combine synergistically for the good of all. This is also graphically represented by the symbolised black and white piano keys emblem of the school.
Having girls learning side-by-side with boys in the 1920s was a brazen idea. But all three idealistic founders had strong reformist tendencies, and they were determined to create a school that would be a model for all of West Africa—a school that would educate Ghanaian boys and girls so well that they would be completely at ease in both traditional culture and western settings. Their vision was to produce a class of intellectually bi-cultural leaders whose training would enable them to act as interpreters and brokers for European and African ideas, fully able to take over their country’s government when the time inevitably came for the British to leave. Ahead of its time, the idea was simultaneously idealistic and radical. It was from this vision of synthesis that the famous piano-key design of the Achimota School crest emerged. Said Aggrey at the time, “You can play a tune of sorts on the black keys only; and you can play a tune of sorts on the white keys only; but for perfect harmony, you must use both the black and the white keys.”
Historical background
"Though set upon a desert hill, may living waters rise in thee. And from thy children wider flow, the rivers of eternity" —quote from school hymn
Achimota School occupies over two square miles of prime real estate in the middle of the Achimota forest reserve in the Accra Metropolitan Area. The school's colonial architecture and well-planned landscape make it visually pleasing to tour the campus and its wooded countryside-like surroundings. The campus facilities comprise a library, a cadet square, two chapels, one of which is the famous Aggrey Memorial Chapel; three dining halls, two gymnasia, the Achimota School Post Office, very extensive sports playing fields, a swimming pool, a cricket oval, basketball court, tennis and squash courts, and an arboretum. There are several bungalows on campus for all teaching staff members.
A description of Achimota School at its inception is provided below:
"Achimota College, in the Gold Coast seven miles inland from Accra is West Africa's great co-educational boarding school, where 600 West African boys and girls receive as complete an education as European or American children. It is a secondary school, teacher's training college and university rolled into one, and in planning, design and equipment it bears comparison with any educational institution anywhere. Its erection in 1925 cost £660,000 and its maintenance costs are £50,000 annually. It possesses a swimming pool, extensive playing fields, a nature reserve, a demonstration farm and a model village for the college employees. It also has its own hospital, museum, library and printing press. The students live in residential blocks spaced round the grounds, each holding 60 students and divided into 4 dormitories."
Located close to the school's central campus are the Achimota Golf Course, the Achimota School Police Station, a staff village for the School's non-teaching employees, a forest reserve, a large farm, and the 45-bed Achimota Hospital that serves the School's students, employees and their families, as well as the community surrounding the campus.
The learning environment
Resuming in 2002, lessons in aspects of Ghanaian culture such as drumming, dancing, and woodcarving were revamped in an effort to incorporate more of the national culture into the curriculum. Apart from the academic and intellectual development of its students, the School lays a strong emphasis on practical training skills as well as character training. The school runs on a three-term academic calendar from mid-September to late June.There are two departments, two designated Schools, and a Home Science Unit responsible for the teaching of the subjects offered. The schools and departments are:
- The Science & Mathematics Department is responsible for the study of Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Agriculture and Computer Science.
- The Arts Department with responsibility for the study of the Arts; English Language, Literature in English, French, Government, History, Economics, Geography, Christian Religious Studies, and Social Studies.
- The Music School with specific responsibility for the study of Music, training of the Aggrey Chapel Choir and organising music festivals
- The Art School with specific responsibility for the study of Visual Arts
- The Home Science Department with the responsibility of study of Home Economics, Catering, Nutrition, Management in Living, Housekeeping, Book keeping and Apparel Design
The School currently offers programmes of study of three-year/nine-term duration, leading to the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (W.A.S.S.C.E.) in any of the following courses
- General Science
- Agricultural Science
- General Arts
- Visual Arts
- Home Economics
In addition to three or four elective subjects taken by every student in one programme of study, each student is required to take the four Core Subjects in Core/General Mathematics, English Language, Integrated Science and Social Studies. In all, each student takes seven or eight subjects (depending on the programme) during each term of their three-year secondary school career leading to sitting of the regional examination, W.A.S.S.C.E. administered by the West African Examinations Council (W.A.E.C.) in May of their final year.
Also, in their first two years, students are required to take Physical Education and Religious and Moral Education every term, taught by the Sports and Chaplaincy departments respectively.
The student body
Current total student enrollment at Achimota School is approximately 1,500. The school is a co-educational boarding school, typical of many second-cycle institutions in Ghana. Its current and 15th principal is Akora Mrs. Beatrice Adom, Class of '75.Boarding houses
There are 14 single-sex houses of residence on either the East or West campus. Each house has two housemasters, a house prefect, and monitors who see to the daily administration of the house. There are also Senior Housemasters and Housemistresses for the Eastern and Western compounds who serve as the overall residential life coordinators.Female houses
- McCarthy (E) (scarlet) is named after Sir Charles McCarthy, a former governor of various British territories in West Africa. This house has undergone three metamorphoses. It was originally an engineering school that was converted to a male residence hall until the late 1990s when it was converted to a female hall of residence.
- Kingsley (E) (yellow), named after the English explorer Mary KingsleyMary KingsleyMary Henrietta Kingsley was an English writer and explorer who greatly influenced European ideas about Africa and African people.-Early life:Kingsley was born in Islington, London on 13 October 1862...
- Clark (E) (blue), named after missionary Mary Clark
- Slessor (E) (dark crimson), named after the Scottish missionary Mary SlessorMary SlessorMary Mitchell Slessor was a Scottish missionary to Nigeria.Her determined work and strong personality allowed her to be trusted and accepted by the locals, spreading Christianity and promoting women's rights.-Early life:...
- S.O.A. (W) (green) formerly House 11, now named after Susanna Ofori-Atta", the first female Ghanaian doctor, sister of the first boys school prefect, William Ofori AttaWilliam Ofori AttaNana William Ofori Atta was a founding member of the United Gold Coast Convention and was one of "The Big Six" detained by the British colonial government in Ghana...
, and daughter of Nana Sir Ofori-Atta, former Okyenhene or Omanhene of Akyem AbuakwaAkyem AbuakwaAkyem Abuakwa describes a traditional geo-political entity in Eastern GhanaAkyen Abuakwa is one of the three independent states along with Akyem Bosome and Akyem Kotoku that forms the Akyem Mansa. This nation state with a non-contiguous land mass exists in the Eastern and Ashanti region of...
State.
- Annie Baeta Jiagge (W) (red and white) (formerly House 17), named after the first female justice of the Appeal Court of GhanaGhanaGhana , officially the Republic of Ghana, is a country located in West Africa. It is bordered by Côte d'Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south...
- O.A.A. (W) (mauve), "Old Achimotan Association" house which was recently created out of the former Robert StopfordRobert StopfordRobert Wright Stopford KCVO CBE PC was a British clergyman.-Early life and career:He was born in Garston, Liverpool and educated at Coatham School in Redcar and Liverpool College, where he was Head of House . He continued his education at Hertford College, Oxford, where he graduated with a Master...
House
Male houses
- Aggrey (E) (red), named after one of the founding fathers, Dr. James AggreyJames AggreyJames Emman Kwegyir Aggrey was an intellectual, missionary, and teacher. He was a native of the Gold Coast who later emigrated to the United States, but returned to Africa for several years....
- Livingstone (E) (yellow) after the famous explorer David LivingstoneDavid LivingstoneDavid Livingstone was a Scottish Congregationalist pioneer medical missionary with the London Missionary Society and an explorer in Africa. His meeting with H. M. Stanley gave rise to the popular quotation, "Dr...
- Lugard (E) (sea blue), named after Lord Lugard
- Gyamfi (E) (green), named after a former student, Gyamfi, a member of the Asante royal family who passed away during his student days.
- Cadbury (E) (dark crimson), named after the chocolate company: Cadbury and Fry
- Guggisberg (E) (navy blue), named after the then governor of the Gold Coast and co-founding father, Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg
- Fraser (W) (green and white), originally known as House 12, and named after the first Principal, Rev. Alexander Gordon Fraser.
"E" indicates that the house in located on the Eastern compound while "W" stands for Western compound.
Achimota School Capital Campaign and Ongoing Needs
The Capital Campaign has now concluded; however, you may visit the Achimota School Capital Campaign website to learn more about the School's ongoing needs.You should also visit the OAA website to learn more about the School's ongoing needs and for updates on projects and the response to the sanitation crisis.
Traditions
Orientation Week
When new form one (juniors) students, also known as "Ninoes", arrive in September, the house prefects lead them to their first supper in the dining hall amid cheers, jeers and catcalls from continuing students (semi-seniors and seniors) often due to the confused faces of the new juniors. Throughout the first week, form one students have several orientation sessions to learn school traditions, school hymn and songs, and the general history of the institution. After the first week, the juniors can proudly sing the school hymn, "Grey City of the Outlaws Hills", school song, "From Gambaga to Accra" as well as others songs such as "Achimota Mother Ours."Ninoes' Night
This event is held on the first Saturday night of the first term during which the new students or "Ninoes" of each boarding house come out with various performances of theatre, music and talent. From the day when new students arrive, they are tutored by their seniors in preparation for their first competitive event for the house. They are also made to practice regularly in an effort to win their first honours for their house. A panel of judges announces the winning house after the show.Sponsored Walk and Mo’fiesta
Speech and Prize-Giving Day
An annual ceremony held in mid-November by the school administration in conjunction with the year group celebrating its twenty-fifth anniversary or silver jubilee of leaving Achimota School. The Guest-Speaker for the occasion is always from the celebrating year group of that year. The function is always attended by high profile members of the society including government leaders, traditional rulers and diplomats. High-achieving students in academics, sports and leadership are presented with endowed awards, books and cash prizes, plaques and certificates.Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
Torchlight Procession and Bonfire Night
This event is held on the eve of Founders' Day in March. Students and alumni light up their pitch-soaked torches at the forecourt of the Administration Block after which there is a procession (accompanied by a brass band) around the school oval. The procession ends at the premises of the Old Achimotan Association clubhouse. A huge bonfire is made with all the flaming torches and then the much-awaited barbecue starts.Founders’ Day Weekend
On Saturday afternoon, there is the actual Founders' Day ceremony where each ethnic or cultural group displays its rich heritage through a medley of traditional dances and music. There are the Girls’ and Boys’ Choruses that sing praise songs in appreciation of the Founders.
Palace of Westminster
The Palace of Westminster, also known as the Houses of Parliament or Westminster Palace, is the meeting place of the two houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom—the House of Lords and the House of Commons...
, London), expansion of cold rooms in the dining halls, Internet networking of buildings and water projects and restoration of the Art School. A Thanksgiving Service is held on the following Sunday at the Aggrey Memorial Chapel to round off the Founders' Day weekend's activities.
Inter-house Sports Competitions
Throughout the year, the 14 boarding houses engage in the healthy rivalry and friendship of many sports. During the first term, handball, volleyball, football (soccer), basketball, hockey and table tennis competitions are held. Each year a Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year is selected and awarded a prize based on all round excellence in sport.The biggest event of the year is the Inter-house Athletics held in February. There are several track and field events, and it is the time when a student athlete can become a hero by breaking a school record. In the third term, the other big event, the Inter- house Eight-Aside Cricket Competition is held. Being the only school in Ghana with a cricket oval, the field attracts the National Cricket Team as well as members of the expatriate community from Commonwealth cricket-playing countries such as India, Pakistan and Jamaica.
S.R.C. Awards Night
Leavers' Service and O.A.A. Induction
Undoubtedly the most emotional service of the year. This is a dedication farewell service held on a Sunday in early May just before the start of the senior school leaving certificate examination. The leavers or outgoing seniors are dedicated to God as they move into the outside world to start higher education. Perhaps, the highlight of the service is when "Achimota Mother Ours" is sung and the last stanza (see below) moves the graduating year group to tears. After the service, they are inducted into the alumni network of the Old Achimotan Association and officially become Akoras. This induction ceremony is done at the O.A.A. Clubhouse, and family and alumni are invited to share in the joyous occasion. The new year group then selects its executive members.School Hymn and Songs
| Achimota School Hymn | Achimota School Song | Achimota Mother Ours |
|---|---|---|
| Grey city of the outlaws' hill, Quick with the hope which makes sublime Still in Thy youth, thou dare'st to look Far unto centuries of time Born but to rule through service given, The ages all belong to Thee, O may Thy life more humble grow Through Him whose service makes us free. He who wept o'er Jerusalem, And yearned to turn the chastening rod, Long in His steadfast love to build In Thee a city for our God. Then shall Thy sons and daughters, say As back to Thee they look with joy, Praise God who gave us there to share, The freedom of his grand employ. Well springs of wisdom are in Thee; With harvests rich Thy hillsides sing; Thou givest life, so mayest Thou be For aye a City of our King. Though set upon a desert hill, May living waters rise in Thee; And from Thy children wider flow The rivers of eternity. Composer: Rev. Alec. G. Fraser, MA, CBE (First Principal 1924-35) |
From Gambaga to Accra, from Wiawso to Keta, We are brothers and our mother is our school. She will guide us all and each, so to learn that we may teach. So to subjugate ourselves that we may rule. Chorus: Play the game, shout her name! Spread her fame afar. She's the head of all the host, She's the school of whom we boast. She's the glory of the coast, ACHIMOTA! When our books are laid aside and we scatter far and wide. We remember with affection all we gained. How we learned to take our share in the life and labour there. Where the men of whom we are proudest of were trained. Chorus: Play the game, shout her name! Spread her fame afar. She's the head of all the host, She's the school of whom we boast. She's the glory of the coast, ACHIMOTA! |
Achimota mother ours, Day by day we learn thy powers. As the years roll on we'll show, The loyalty to thee we owe. Chorus: All ye Ewes, Gas and Fantes, All Nzemas and Ashantis, Make our School resound with song, With a ringing farewell strong. In the middle of the race, Looking back just spoils the pace; Busy we in games and school, Hobbies, gardening, days are full. Chorus Years ago we came to school, Knowing not of prefects' rule. Now we come to take our share, In the life and labour there. Chorus Achimota mother ours, Bless us in these parting hours. Now behind us college days, Now goodbye to college ways. Chorus Words provided by Akora Mrs. Adelaide Quaye (née Bulley) (Class of '41) |
Principals and Heads of Achimota School
| Name | Tenure of Office |
|---|---|
| Rev. A. G. Fraser, C.B.E. | 1924-35 |
| Rev. H. M. Grace | 1935-41 |
| Rev. R. W. Stopford, K.C.V.O., C.B.E. | 1941-45 |
| Mr. H. C. Niell | 1946-49 |
| Mr. P. G. Rendall | 1949-53 |
| Mr. W. E. Winlaw, T.D | 1954-59 |
| Dr. D. A. Chapman Nyaho, C.B.E. | 1959-63 |
| Dr. I. K. Chinebuah, M.P. Isaac Chinebuah Dr.Isaac K. Chinebuah was an academic and the foreign minister in the People's National Party government of the Third Republic of Ghana.- Career :... |
1963-65 |
| 'Nana' Alan P. Rudwick, O.B.E., G.M., | 1965-77 |
| Rev. Canon L. Ankrah | 1977-81 |
| Mr. A.A. Dadey | 1982-85 |
| Mr. R. M. Asiedu | 1985-95 |
| Mrs. Charlotte Brew-Graves | 1995-02 |
| Mrs. Adelaide Kwami, G.M. | 2003-07 |
| Mrs. Beatrice T. Adom | 2007- |
Ties to Similar Schools
- Trinity College, KandyTrinity College, KandyTrinity College, Kandy founded in 1872 by Anglican missionaries, is an Independent elite private boys’ school providing primary and secondary education in Sri Lanka...
, Ceylon now Sri LankaSri LankaSri Lanka, officially the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka is a country off the southern coast of the Indian subcontinent. Known until 1972 as Ceylon , Sri Lanka is an island surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait, and lies in the vicinity of India and the...
(founded 1872): One of the founding fathers, Rev. Alexander G. Fraser (headmaster)Alexander G. Fraser (headmaster)Reverend Alexander Garden Fraser, M.A., CBE, is one of the founders of Achimota School and the first Principal of the School . The other founders are Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg, former governor of the Gold Coast , and Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey, the first Assistant Vice Principal .-Trinity...
was principal of Trinity College, Kandy from 1904-1924. He was the first principal of Achimota from 1924-1935. Also, Rev. Robert StopfordRobert StopfordRobert Wright Stopford KCVO CBE PC was a British clergyman.-Early life and career:He was born in Garston, Liverpool and educated at Coatham School in Redcar and Liverpool College, where he was Head of House . He continued his education at Hertford College, Oxford, where he graduated with a Master...
who headed Trinity College, Kandy from 1935–1941, was principal of Achimota from 1941-1945. The famous Aggrey Memorial Chapel, venue for morning assembly, weekly Sunday services and other important events, was modelled on the open-style architecture of Trinity College Chapel, Kandy. Aggrey Chapel ranks among one of the most popular places in AccraAccraAccra is the capital and largest city of Ghana, with an urban population of 1,658,937 according to the 2000 census. Accra is also the capital of the Greater Accra Region and of the Accra Metropolitan District, with which it is coterminous...
to hold weddings.
- King's College, LagosKing's College, LagosKing's College, Lagos is a secondary school in Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria. It was founded on 20 September 1909 with 10 students on its original site at Lagos Island, adjacent to Tafawa Balewa Square. The school admits male students only, although there were some female HSC students before the...
, NigeriaNigeriaNigeria , officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a federal constitutional republic comprising 36 states and its Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The country is located in West Africa and shares land borders with the Republic of Benin in the west, Chad and Cameroon in the east, and Niger in...
(founded 1909): Achimota and King's College had Inter-College Athletic Competitions during the 1960s and early 1970s. In 2008, Achimota School played host to King's College, Lagos in a four day exchange programme from Thursday, 29 May 2008 to Sunday, 1 June 2008. Activities lined up for the programme were hockey, cricket and football (soccer), with a dinner to round the competition off. The games were played at Achimota School's main playing fields. As King's College, Lagos celebrated its Centenary in 2009, Achimota School was invited for a second Achimota School - Kings College Games Conference as part of the anniversary celebrations.
Trivia
- Academic Competitions: Achimota School has won the National Science and Math Quiz competition twice (1998 and 2004).Achimota School emerged second in the 2009 edition of the National Science and Math quiz.
- Chaplaincy: Achimota School has four chaplains from the Anglican, Catholic, Methodist and Presbyterian denominations. Apart from chaplaincy duties, the reverend ministers serve as guidance counsellors, provide spiritual/pastoral care, and are also in charge of teaching Moral and Religious Education (M.R.E) to students. In recognition of the diversity of students' backgrounds, a Muslim service is also organized weekly to cater to the religious needs of the school's Muslim population.
- Clubs and Organisations: There is a variety of clubs and societies on campus including several singing groups, Interact Club, Ghana United Nations Student Association (GUNSA), Scripture Union (SU), Leadership International (LI), Current Affairs Club, Literary and Debaters' Society, Science Club and a host of others.
- Mascot: The School's mascot is a mythical creature called "Kuzunik" and is represented by a gargoyle-like wooden sculpture that was carved by Kofi Antobam, while he was teaching there. In prior years, there was a tradition known as "Kuzunik's Night". The present location of the Kuzunik is atop a shelf by the east wall of the school library.
- Publications: Achimota School has two student magazines, "The Achimotan" and the more recent one "The Motowner" both published periodically. Two newsletters also exist on campus: The Blueprint (Originally a publication of Guggisberg House)and The Motown Express.
- P.T.A: Achimota School has a Parent-Teacher Association (P.T.A) that was formed during the era of Mr. A. P. Rudwick, Headmaster (1965–1977) The body meets each term to discuss issues pertaining to students' welfare and school development.
- Ranking: Achimota School ranks among one of Africa's Top 100 High Schools according to a 2003 list compiled by Africa Almanac.
- Politics: During the 1st Parliament of the 2nd Republic of Ghana, 126 out of the 140 parliamentarians (representing 90%) were Alumni (Akoras) of Achimota School. Akoras are still actively involved in Ghana's political system serving in all branches of government—the Executive branch, Legislative branch (Parliament), and Judiciary.
- Prefectorial System: Students who display high academic credentials and leadership skills are selected to be "prefects" or leaders. Apart from the School Prefects, there are prefects in charge of the Assembly Hall, Dining Hall, Chapel, Compound, Classrooms, Residential Houses, and dormitories etc. In the eastern and western dining halls, these prefects sit and eat at the "high table", from whence a prefect on duty also delivers announcements after meals.
- Triangular Games: In the 1960s and 1970s, Achimota was a member of this three-school athletic conference which included Mfantsipim (established 1876) and Wesley Girls High School (established 1836) both of Cape Coast, Ghana.
- University Leadership: Achimota has also produced a total of about ten vice-chancellors at Ghana's two leading public research universities, University of GhanaUniversity of GhanaThe University of Ghana is the oldest and largest of the thirteen Ghanaian universities and tertiary institutions. It is one of the best universities in Africa and by far the most prestigious in West Africa...
and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology is a university located in Kumasi, Ghana.It is the second public university established in the country. The University has its roots in the plans of the Asantehene Agyeman Prempeh I to establish a university in Kumasi as part of his drive...
, KNUST.
- Worship: Achimota School has its own hymn book, the Achimota School Hymnal (ASH) used at school church services and functions.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scWPq3fcPx4&feature=geosearch
Old Achimotan Association (O.A.A)
The Old Achimotan Association ("OAA") is the umbrella alumni organization for past students of Achimota School, Ghana. The OAA authorizes the formation of Regional, Branch and Year Groups to carry out its objectives. Members of the OAA are known as "Akoras".- History: The OAA was started in 1929 by the first Principal of the then Prince of Wales College, Rev. Alec G. Fraser. Sandy Fraser, son of Rev. Fraser, then a member of Achimota School’s staff, was the first Organizing Secretary of the OAA. Sandy spent his vacations touring the towns and villages where Old Achimotans were working in order to explain the aims and objectives of the OAA. The OAA’s first Annual General Meeting was held at the School on December 23, 1930, and then once a year thereafter. The participants spent three or four days on the School’s campus.
- Constitution: The OAA is governed by a constitution, whose principal objective is "the formation of a bond of union between Old Achimotans and the School to promote the maintenance of their interest in the School and their willingness to assist in its welfare, and to promote the ideals for which Achimota was founded".
- National Executive Committee: The OAA's affairs and funds are managed by a National Executive Committee. The Committee consists of three officers of the Association, two ex-officio officers, the immediate past President of the Association and eight other members. The National Executive Committee is elected biennially at an Annual General Meeting. The OAA Alumni Office assists the National Executive Committee in its work.