Correspondence from the Eastern Region

A former student of Mt. Mary Demonstration Junior High School in Somanya has called on alumni of the institution to unite and support the school's development after donating three brand-new laptops to enhance Information and Communication Technology (ICT) education.

Engineer Eric T. Ayertey, a member of the school's 1996 graduating class, made the appeal during a visit to his alma mater in the Yilo Krobo Municipality of the Eastern Region, 30 years after completing his basic education there.

According to him, Mt. Mary Demonstration JHS has produced generations of professionals, including engineers, doctors, accountants, bankers, scientists, nurses, and teachers, making it imperative for former students to give back to the institution that helped shape their lives.

"I am using this platform to invite all old boys and girls of Mt. Mary Demonstration JHS to join hands in giving back to the school that gave us so much," he said. "Together, we can provide not only resources but also inspiration, guidance and opportunities for these young minds."

The telecommunications and renewable energy consultant said the donation of the laptops was intended to strengthen ICT education in the school and serve as a catalyst for broader alumni involvement in addressing the institution's developmental needs.

Beyond the donation, Engineer Ayertey announced plans to establish an annual mentorship and career guidance programme, dubbed Moment of Focus, beginning in June 2027. The initiative will be held during the first week of June each year and will connect pupils with professionals and mentors from various fields.

He explained that the intervention followed a needs assessment which identified ICT resources among the school's most pressing challenges. He also pointed to the need for a well-equipped library, projectors, printers, scanners, and other educational facilities to improve teaching and learning.

Addressing the students, the alumnus encouraged them to take their studies seriously and strive for excellence, recalling a period when Mt. Mary Demonstration JHS was widely regarded as one of the best-performing schools in the district.

"There are only two things that produce results: teachers must teach well and students must learn diligently. When both work together, success follows," he said.

Engineer Ayertey expressed optimism that with sustained support from alumni, staff, and stakeholders, the school could reclaim its former reputation for academic excellence.

Receiving the donation, Headteacher Desmond Dedoo thanked the donor for the gesture and assured him that the laptops would be properly maintained and used solely for educational purposes.

He said the school remained committed to restoring its proud academic tradition and pledged that the equipment would be used to improve learning outcomes and encourage further support from alumni and development partners.

The donation and appeal have sparked renewed calls for greater alumni involvement in the development of Mt. Mary Demonstration JHS, with many hoping the initiative will inspire former students across different year groups to contribute to the school's growth and modernization.