Kpando SHS marks 71st anniversary, headmaster hails alumni support

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Kpando Senior High School (KPASEC) celebrated its 71st anniversary in a grand ceremony, emphasizing the pivotal role of its alumni in the school’s growth.

The event, themed “The Impact of Alumni Involvement in Education: The Role of KOSA,” brought together old students, dignitaries, and key stakeholders to honor the institution’s legacy and chart a bold vision for the future.

In his keynote address, the headmaster praised the Kpando Old Students Association (KOSA) for their unwavering contributions to the school’s development, from infrastructure improvements to student mentoring.

He credited alumni support for transforming KPASEC from its modest beginnings into a thriving institution serving over 3,500 students. “Our success story cannot be told without mentioning the immense contributions of our alumni. They have been the backbone of our progress,” he said.

Rising Academic Success

KPASEC’s academic growth was on full display, with the headmaster highlighting the school’s impressive performance in the 2023 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

The school achieved a 96% pass rate in English, 89% in Mathematics, 86% in Integrated Science, and 92% in Social Studies. He also commended KPASEC’s recent victory in the National Energy Challenge, a triumph he attributed to KOSA’s generous sponsorship.

The school, which started in 1953 with just nine students and two teachers, has grown into a powerhouse of academic excellence, now offering a diverse range of programs, including Visual Arts and Home Economics, alongside its traditional subjects.

Alumni Contributions: A Lifeline for KPASEC

The headmaster applauded KOSA’s instrumental role in addressing the school’s infrastructure challenges. Recent donations include 200 desks from the 1999-year group to ease the furniture shortage, desktop computers, laboratory equipment, and renovations to various facilities.

He gave special mention to Mr. Eric Seddy Kutotsey, a proud alumnus, who contributed GHC 100,000 to support the Energy Challenge winners and offered full scholarships to three deserving students.

“The support from our old students is not just financial—it’s transformational,” the headmaster remarked, emphasizing how KOSA’s involvement has been critical in bridging gaps created by limited government resources.

Challenges Ahead: A Call for Support

Despite these accomplishments, the headmaster highlighted the pressing challenges the school faces, calling on the government, alumni, and other stakeholders to provide further support. He outlined urgent needs, including a new 18-unit classroom block, a boys’ dormitory, modern kitchen and sanitation facilities, and a new school bus to ease transportation issues.

Security on the expansive campus remains a serious concern, with only four security personnel overseeing the protection of students and staff. “We need to secure our future by securing our school,” the headmaster urged, appealing for immediate intervention to bolster campus safety.

Looking Forward with Confidence

As KPASEC moves forward, the headmaster expressed confidence that with continued support from KOSA, the PTA, and the government, the school will continue to excel academically and overcome its infrastructure challenges. He also extended heartfelt thanks to the chiefs and people of the Akpini Traditional Area for their enduring partnership with the school.

“Our journey from a small institution to a school of over 3,500 students is nothing short of remarkable,” he said. “With the backing of our proud alumni and committed stakeholders, the future of KPASEC looks brighter than ever.”

The 71st-anniversary celebration was a powerful reminder of KPASEC’s enduring legacy and the critical role of alumni in shaping its future—a future that promises to be filled with even greater achievements.