Perhaps you’ve heard of a school whose motto is ‘Redimentes Opportunitatem’. That is Accra High School. Accra High School is a renowned secondary school. It stands tall in Accra, Ghana. Rev. James Thomas Roberts founded it on August 17, 1923. Initially, it began as a school for boys. Its original location was on Beach Avenue in Aayalolo. Aayalolo is a suburb within Accra.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine Accra in the early 1920s. Rev. Roberts envisions a school. This school will shape young minds. It will instill values. He likely faced challenges. Yet, his determination prevailed. Accra High School was born.
The school’s early days saw modest beginnings. Eight students started their academic journey. They gathered in Mr. D.S. Quarcoopome’s residence. Several families supported Rev. Roberts’ vision. These families included Akilakpa Sawyer, Quist Riberio, and Akiwumni. Vanderpuye, Garshong, Ocansey, and Bruce also assisted.
In August 1924, Accra High School marked its first anniversary. A church service was held at the Holy Trinity Cathedral. The Anglican Bishop of Accra, Dr. John Aglionby, delivered the sermon. This event symbolized a bond. It was a bond between the school and the Church of England.
Accra High School presented its first candidates in 1924. They sat for exams from the College of Preceptors. They also took exams from Cambridge University. The Royal Society of Arts was represented. Pitman’s Shorthand Examinations were included too. These exams showcased the school’s commitment to academic excellence.
By 1926, most students had passed the Junior Cambridge Examination. Mr. Frank Roberts joined the staff. He was the eldest son of Rev. Roberts. Frank had a Bachelor of Arts degree from the United Kingdom. His presence enhanced the school’s academic standards. He also improved discipline.
In 1927, J.O. Ansah Johnson achieved a milestone. He became the first student to pass the Cambridge School Certificate Examination. This success highlighted the school’s growing reputation. It showed its dedication to quality education.
Accra High School continued to evolve. It maintained its focus on academic achievement. The school was absorbed as a public institution in 1952. Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, then president, admired the school. He granted it nine hectares of land at North Ridge. The school moved to this location in 1967.
Today, Accra High School boasts a student population around 2,409. Approximately 500 students are boarders. The school employs about 176 teaching and non-teaching staff. It offers seven academic programs.
Accra High School has produced notable alumni. These include E.T. Mensah and Nii Amaa Ollennu. Perry Curtis Kwabla Okudzeto and Alex Mould also attended. Kate Addo and Sam Korankye Ankrah are alumni. These individuals have contributed significantly to Ghana. They have excelled in various fields.
The school’s clubs include Interact and Amnesty International. The Adinkra Drama Club and Readers, Writers, and Debaters Club are active. The Ghana Methodist Students Union thrives here. Students can also join the School Choir and Regimental band.
Accra High School remains committed to its founder’s legacy. The school administration and Board of Governors work together. They collaborate with the Founders’ Family and Old Student Association. The Parent Association and student body also contribute. This cooperation ensures the school’s continued success. Accra High School continues to shape future leaders.