Kpando Senior High School (KPASEC) marked a significant milestone on its 71st Anniversary and Speech and Prize Giving Day, celebrating decades of academic achievement and discipline. The event, held under the theme, “The Impact of Alumni Involvement in Education: The Role of KOSA,” was a powerful reminder of the schools deep-rooted legacy and the pivotal role its alumni association (KOSA) has played in the schools development.
In a speech delivered by the Headmaster, attendees, including notable figures such as the Volta Regional Director of Education and the KOSA National President, were taken on a journey through the schools history and present accomplishments. Founded in 1953 as a community day school with only nine students and two teachers, Kpando Senior High has grown into one of the most respected boarding schools in the Volta Region, boasting a current student population of 3,509. The breakdown of students includes 1,491 boys and 2,018 girls, with staff strength standing at 211, including 155 teaching staff and 56 non-teaching personnel.
Academic Excellence and Achievements
KPASECs academic performance continues to soar, especially in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). Over the past five years, the school has consistently improved its results in core subjects like English, Mathematics, Integrated Science, and Social Studies. The 2023 WASSCE results were particularly impressive, with a 96% pass rate in English, 89% in Mathematics, 86% in Integrated Science, and 92% in Social Studies.
In addition to its academic successes, KPASEC has shown prowess in co-curricular activities. Most notably, the school recently won the National Energy Challenge organized by the Ghana Energy Commission, a project fully funded by KOSA. The Headmaster praised the alumni for their unwavering support in providing the necessary resources to prepare students for such competitions.
KOSA: A Pillar of Support
The role of KOSA in the schools development was a central theme throughout the celebration. The Headmaster emphasized the numerous contributions of alumni, including funding for the Energy Challenge, renovation projects, provision of computers, and much-needed furniture. The 1999-year group was especially praised for organizing the 71st-anniversary event and donating 200 mono desks.
KOSAs individual and collective efforts have been instrumental in alleviating the pressure on the schools limited resources. Significant donations, such as the one made by Mr. Eric Seddy Kutotsey, who contributed GHC 100,000 and offered scholarships to the STEM Energy Challenge champions, were applauded.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Despite the schools successes, several challenges persist. The Headmaster outlined urgent needs, including an 18-unit classroom block, a new boys dormitory, a 65-seater bus, and an ultra-modern assembly hall with a capacity of 4,000 students. Additionally, the school faces security concerns, with only four security personnel guarding the large campus. The Headmaster called on the government and philanthropists to assist in addressing these critical issues.
The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) has also been a key partner, currently constructing a 12-unit classroom block to ease congestion. The Headmaster expressed deep gratitude to the PTA and other stakeholders, including the Municipal Assembly and NGOs, for their continued support.
Conclusion
As KPASEC reflects on 71 years of excellence, the impact of alumni involvement remains undeniable. The Headmasters message was clear: the schools future success depends on sustained collaboration between the schools management, alumni, PTA, and other stakeholders. With the ongoing support of KOSA and other partners, Kpando Senior High School is well-positioned to continue producing responsible and accomplished individuals who will contribute to Ghanas development.
The event concluded with a heartfelt appreciation for all who have supported the school, from alumni and staff to the chiefs and people of the Akpini Traditional Area, whose hospitality has nurtured the school for over seven decades.
