Correspondence from the Eastern Region

Authorities and stakeholders of New Juaben Senior High School (NJUASCO) in the Eastern Region have called for a stronger commitment to holistic education to prepare students to thrive in an increasingly complex global environment.

The call was made during the launch of the school’s 73rd Anniversary Speech and Prize-Giving Day, held at the school’s dining hall in Koforidua.

The event was chaired by the Sanaahene of Dawu Akuapem, Nana Ampem-Darko, and attended by alumni, staff, students, parents, and other stakeholders.

The anniversary celebration is being held under the theme, “Holistic Education: Shaping Visionaries for a Changing Global Landscape – Stakeholders in Dialogue.”

Delivering the keynote address, legal practitioner and alumna Lucille Hewlett Annan, who also serves as Commission Secretary of the National Commission for Civic Education, stressed that education must extend beyond textbooks and examinations to include character formation and ethical leadership.

She noted that the school has played a significant role in shaping minds and nurturing character for more than seven decades.
“Seventy-three years is not merely the passage of time; it is a testament to endurance, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge,” she said.

Annan emphasized that modern education must equip students with critical thinking skills, creativity, and the capacity to solve emerging global challenges.
“True education develops not only the mind but also character, imagination, and a sense of responsibility to society,” she added.

She further urged students to embrace curiosity, discipline, and compassion, noting that the world needs ethical leaders and innovative thinkers capable of transforming societies.

Annan also paid tribute to the late Omanhene of the New Juaben Traditional Area, Daasebre Nana Kwaku Boateng, who donated the land on which the school was established.

According to her, the gesture symbolized visionary leadership and a commitment to building a lasting legacy through education.
“That act of generosity teaches us that each person has a responsibility to shape the world and leave it better than they found it,” she said.

The Acting National President of the New Juaben Old Students Association (NJOSA), Richard Sakyi Mickson, a member of the 2003 year group, described the anniversary as a moment to celebrate the school’s legacy while renewing commitment to its development.

“For seventy-three years, generations have passed through these gates and have gone on to make meaningful contributions to society,” he said.

Mickson noted that the anniversary should serve as a rallying point for alumni to strengthen their support for the school through infrastructure development, mentorship programmes, and academic support.

He commended various year groups for contributing to the school’s development, including the 1993 year group for constructing the main gate, the 1998 year group for establishing a National Science and Mathematics Quiz laboratory, and the 1989 year group for renovating the school’s sick bay.

Chairman of the occasion, Nana Ampem-Darko, who is also an alumnus of the 1979 year group, urged students to strive for excellence and uphold the reputation of the school.

“Make a good name for yourself, a good name for your school, and a good name for your family,” he advised.

He further encouraged alumni and community leaders to continue supporting the school’s development, stressing that many successful individuals began their journey at the institution.

According to organisers, the launch marks the beginning of activities leading to the main anniversary celebration, scheduled for October 26 to November 1, 2026.

School authorities indicated that the Speech and Prize-Giving Day will recognise outstanding students for academic excellence, discipline, and leadership while celebrating the institution’s achievements over the years.

Stakeholders expressed optimism that the anniversary will strengthen partnerships among alumni, management, parents, and development partners to advance the school’s growth.

As part of the launch activities, a number of infrastructure projects funded by alumni and corporate partners were officially commissioned and handed over to school authorities to support teaching and learning.

These included the commissioning of a newly constructed alumni office funded by the 2004 year group of NJOSA to strengthen alumni coordination and engagement. The ceremony also witnessed the handing over of a renovated sick bay funded by the 1989 year group in partnership with Star Assurance Company Limited to improve healthcare services for students. In addition, a refurbished dining hall was presented to enhance students’ welfare and comfort during meal times.

School authorities and stakeholders described the projects as significant contributions demonstrating the commitment of alumni and partners to the continuous development of NJUASCO.

As preparations unfold, speakers at the launch emphasised that the future of New Juaben Senior High School depends on sustained collaboration and a shared commitment to nurturing visionary leaders for Ghana and the global community.