Jump to content

Mfantsipim School: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 5°07′08″N 1°15′04″W / 5.119°N 1.251°W / 5.119; -1.251
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
tone down promotional material
Reverting edit(s) by 41.204.40.114 (talk) to rev. 1264232933 by 154.161.19.97: Reverting good faith edits: no source, and only add if they have an article (UV 0.1.6)
 
(42 intermediate revisions by 23 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|All-boys boarding secondary school in Cape Coast, Ghana}}
{{Short description|All-boys boarding secondary school in Cape Coast, Ghana}}
{{More citations needed|date=January 2018}}
{{More citations needed|date=January 2018}}

{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2014}}
{{Use British English|date=May 2014}}
{{Use British English|date=May 2014}}
Line 9: Line 8:
| imagesize = 150px
| imagesize = 150px
| caption =
| caption =
| location = Kotokuraba, [[Cape Coast]]
| location = [[Cape Coast]]
| streetaddress = P.O. Box 101
| streetaddress = Aboom Wells Road
| region = [[Central Region (Ghana)|Central Region]]
| region = [[Central Region (Ghana)|Central Region]]
| city = [[Cape Coast]]
| city = [[Cape Coast]]
Line 46: Line 45:
| administrator =
| administrator =
| rector =
| rector =
| chaplain = Rev. Selali Segbefia
| chaplain = Rev. Samuel
| director =
| director =
| custodian =
| custodian =
Line 71: Line 70:
| upper_age = 20
| upper_age = 20
| houses = 8
| houses = 8
| schooltype = Mission
| schooltype = [[Secondary school|Public secondary/high school]] mission
| fundingtype =
| fundingtype =
| type = [[Secondary school|Public secondary/high school]]
| type =
| system =
| system =
| fees =
| fees =
Line 92: Line 91:
| athletics =
| athletics =
| conference =
| conference =
| slogan = The School
| slogan =
| song = For all the Saints (MHB 832)
| song = "For all the Saints" (MHB 832)
| fightsong =
| fightsong =
| motto = Dwen Hwɛ Kan<br />(''Think and Look Ahead)''
| motto = Dwen Hwɛ Kan<br />(''Think and Look Ahead)''
Line 104: Line 103:
| school_colours = Crimson {{Color box|crimson|border=darkgray}} and black {{Color box|black|border=darkgray}}
| school_colours = Crimson {{Color box|crimson|border=darkgray}} and black {{Color box|black|border=darkgray}}
| mascot =
| mascot =
| yearbook = “Botaepa”
| yearbook = Botaepa
| publication =
| publication =
| newspaper =
| newspaper =
Line 133: Line 132:
| communities =
| communities =
| feeders =
| feeders =
| free_label = School Anthem
| free_label = School anthem
| free_text = Dwen Hwɛ Kan
| free_text = "Dwen Hwɛ Kan"
| free_label1 =
| free_label1 =
| free_text1 =
| free_text1 =
Line 148: Line 147:
}}
}}


'''Mfantsipim''' is an all-boys boarding secondary school in [[Cape Coast]], [[Ghana]],<ref>[http://ghanaschools.info/listing/mfantsipim-secondary/ "Mfantsipim Senior Secondary School"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180128132449/http://ghanaschools.info/listing/mfantsipim-secondary/ |date=28 January 2018}}, Ghana Schools.</ref><ref>{{cite news|date=17 September 2019|title=Tears at Mfantsipim school amidst tight security|url=https://mobile.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Tears-at-Mfantsipim-school-amidst-tight-security-781570|website=Ghanaweb |access-date=4 June 2020}}</ref> established by the [[Methodist Church Ghana|Methodist Church]] in 1876 to foster intellectual, [[moral]], and spiritual growth on the then [[Gold Coast (British colony)|Gold Coast]]. Its founding name was '''Wesleyan High School''' and the first headmaster was James Picot, a [[French language|French]] scholar, who was only 18 years old on his appointment.
== Overview ==
'''Mfantsipim''' is an all-boys boarding secondary school in [[Cape Coast]], [[Ghana]],<ref>[http://ghanaschools.info/listing/mfantsipim-secondary/ "Mfantsipim Senior Secondary School"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180128132449/http://ghanaschools.info/listing/mfantsipim-secondary/ |date=28 January 2018}}, Ghana Schools.</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=17 September 2019|title=Tears at Mfantsipim school amidst tight security|url=https://mobile.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Tears-at-Mfantsipim-school-amidst-tight-security-781570|website=Ghanaweb |access-date=4 June 2020}}</ref> established by the [[Methodist Church Ghana|Methodist Church]] in 1876 to foster intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth on the then [[Gold Coast (British colony)|Gold Coast]]. Its founding name was '''Wesleyan High School''' and the first headmaster was James Picot, a French scholar, who was only 18 years old on his appointment.


Mfantsipim is nicknamed "The School" because it gave birth to other prominent schools such as [[Prempeh College]].<ref>
Mfantsipim is nicknamed "The School" because it gave birth to other prominent schools such as [[Prempeh College]].<ref>
Line 157: Line 155:
==History==
==History==


The idea of establishing a collegiate school to raise educational standards in the Gold Coast was first mooted in 1865 but was not realized until 1876 when the ''Wesleyan High School'' was established in Cape Coast with donations from local businessmen and the support of the Methodist Missionary Society in London. The school was originally intended to be situated in Accra, owing to a decision by the British Government to move the capital of the Gold Coast from Cape Coast to Accra by 1870. However, due to local agitation and the urgency to implement the idea, it was finally established in Cape Coast, although there were initial plans to later move it to Accra, a relocation that never happened.
The idea of establishing a collegiate school to raise educational standards in the [[Gold Coast (region)|Gold Coast]] was first mooted in 1865 but was not realized until 1876 when the ''Wesleyan High School'' was established in Cape Coast with donations from local businessmen and the support of the Methodist Missionary Society in [[London]]. The school was originally intended to be situated in Accra, owing to a decision by the British Government to move the capital of the Gold Coast from Cape Coast to [[Accra]] by 1870. However, due to local agitation and the urgency to implement the idea, it was finally established in [[Cape Coast]], although there were initial plans to later move it to Accra, a relocation that never happened.


On April 3, 1876, the school was established as Wesleyan High School.
On 3 [[April]] 1876, the school was established as [[Wesleyan Methodist Church (Great Britain)|Wesleyan]] High School.


===Foundation and Early Development ===
===Foundation and early development ===
Mfantsipim School was established in 1876 as Wesleyan High School in Cape Coast, primarily to train teachers with an initial enrollment of 17 pupils. The idea of establishing a collegiate school in the Gold Coast dates back to 1865, but it took eleven years to realize this vision. The school's location was chosen amidst local agitation and the urgent need to start the institution, despite initial plans to establish it in Accra.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mfantsipim School History {{!}} SchoolsInGh.com |url=https://www.schoolsingh.com/senior-high-schools/mfantsipim-school/history |access-date=2023-12-14 |website=schoolsInGh |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2023-05-05 |title=Mfantsipim School: History, Academic Excellence, and Admission Process |url=https://ghanadmission.com/mfantsipim-school/ |access-date=2023-12-14 |website=Best Online Portal |language=en-US}}</ref>
Mfantsipim School was established in 1876 as Wesleyan High School in Cape Coast, primarily to train teachers with an initial enrollment of 17 pupils. The idea of establishing a collegiate school in the Gold Coast dates back to 1865, but it took eleven years to realize this vision. The school's location was chosen amidst local agitation and the urgent need to start the institution, despite initial plans to establish it in Accra.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mfantsipim School History {{!}} Schools In Ghana |url=https://www.schoolsingh.com/senior-high-schools/mfantsipim-school/history |access-date=2023-12-14 |website=schoolsInGh |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2023-05-05 |title=Mfantsipim School: History, Academic Excellence, and Admission Process |url=https://ghanadmission.com/mfantsipim-school/ |access-date=2023-12-14 |website=Best Online Portal |language=en-US}}</ref>


The first headmaster was James Picot, a young French scholar, who was only 18 years old at his appointment. Despite his youth and relatively limited experience, Picot played a crucial role in the school's early days.<ref>https://mfantsipim.com/school/</ref>
The first headmaster was James Picot, a young French scholar, who was only 18 years old at his appointment. Despite his youth and relatively limited experience, Picot played a crucial role in the school's early days.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://mfantsipim.com/school/ | title=The School – MOBA }}</ref>


=== Name Change and Evolution ===
=== Name change and evolution ===
In 1905 a graduate of the school, [[John Mensah Sarbah]], founded a rival school named ''Mfantsipim''; the name derives from "Mfantsefo-apem",<ref>{{cite web |title=Meaning of 'Mfantsipim' |url=http://africaschoolsonline.com/user/mfantsiedu-gh |website=AfricaSchoolsOnline |access-date=14 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180615222947/http://africaschoolsonline.com/user/mfantsiedu-gh/ |archive-date=15 June 2018 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all |date=7 June 2017}}</ref> literally meaning "thousands of [[Fante people|Fantes]]" but actually meaning "the gathering of hosts of scholars for change" originally by the Fantes. In July of the same year, the two schools were merged under the supervision of the Methodist Church, keeping the name Mfantsipim.<ref name="bagudu">Richard Bagudu (2007). [https://books.google.com/books?id=cVLmph0ZmxIC ''Judging Annan'']. Bloomington, IN: AuthorHouse. {{ISBN|9781425960933}}, pp.&nbsp;22–23.</ref>
In 1905 a graduate of the school, [[John Mensah Sarbah]], founded a rival school named ''Mfantsipim''; the name derives from "Mfantsefo-apem",<ref>{{cite web |title=Meaning of 'Mfantsipim' |url=http://africaschoolsonline.com/user/mfantsiedu-gh |website=AfricaSchoolsOnline |access-date=14 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180615222947/http://africaschoolsonline.com/user/mfantsiedu-gh/ |archive-date=15 June 2018 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all |date=7 June 2017}}</ref> literally meaning "thousands of [[Fante people|Fantes]]" but actually meaning "the gathering of hosts of scholars for change" originally by the Fantes. In July of the same year, the two schools were merged under the supervision of the [[Methodist Church]], keeping the name Mfantsipim.<ref name="bagudu">Richard Bagudu (2007). [https://books.google.com/books?id=cVLmph0ZmxIC ''Judging Annan'']. Bloomington, IN: AuthorHouse. {{ISBN|9781425960933}}, pp.&nbsp;22–23.</ref>


=== Academic and Cultural Traditions ===
=== Academic and cultural traditions ===
The school celebrates annual events like the Speech and Prize Giving Day, which dates back to 1908, initiated by Rev. W.T. Balmer. This event is significant for recognizing academic and extracurricular achievements and maintaining a connection with alumni. The School Anthem, sung at various events, encapsulates the school's history, values, and aspirations<ref>https://ghanadmission.com/mfantsipim-school/</ref><ref>https://www.modernghana.com/news/738842/mfantsipim-140-years-of-senior-secondary-educati.html</ref>
The school celebrates annual events such as the Speech and Prize Giving Day, which dates back to 1908, initiated by Rev. W. T. Balmer. This event is significant for recognizing academic and extracurricular achievements and maintaining a connection with alumni. The school anthem, sung at various events, encapsulates the school's history, values, and aspirations.<ref name="admis">{{cite web | url=https://ghanadmission.com/mfantsipim-school/ | title=Mfantsipim School: History, Academic Excellence, and Admission Process | date=5 May 2023 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.modernghana.com/news/738842/mfantsipim-140-years-of-senior-secondary-educati.html|title=Mfantsipim – 140 Years Of Senior Secondary Education In Ghana (1)|website=Modern Ghana|first=Kwame|last=Gyasi|date=2016}}</ref>


=== Historical Relocation and Expansion ===
=== Historical relocation and expansion ===
Originally built on the premises of the Cape Coast Castle, Mfantsipim was later moved to its current location on Kwabotwe Hill in northern Cape Coast in 1931. This move marked a significant phase in the school's expansion and development<ref>https://ghanadmission.com/mfantsipim-school/</ref>
Originally built on the premises of the [[Cape Coast Castle]], Mfantsipim was later moved to its current location on Kwabotwe Hill in northern Cape Coast in 1930. This move marked a significant phase in the school's expansion and development.<ref name="admis"/>


== Administration ==
== Administration ==
=== Head Boys from 1928 to 2023 ===
=== Head boys from 1928 to 2024 ===
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Year
! Year
! Head Boy
! Head boy
!"| Year
!"| Year
!"| Head Boy
!"| Head boy
|-
|-
| 1928
| 1928
Line 322: Line 320:
|2001/02
|2001/02
|N. N. Lokko
|N. N. Lokko
|-
|
|
|2002/03
|A. K. Nsiah Asare
|-
|
|
|2015/2016
|Nigel Twi Yeaboah
|-
|
|
|2016/2017
|Jacob Ewusi Wilson
|-
|
|
|2017/2018
|Edwin Edem Sedodo
|-
|
|
|2018/2019
|Atta Doomson
|-
|
|
|
|
|-
|
|
|
|
|-
|
|
|
|
|-
|
|
|
|
|-
|
|
|2023
|Alvin Elorm Addai
|-
|
|
|2024
|Peter Appiah-Thompson
|-
|
|
|2025
|Ato Kwamina Esilifie
|-
|-
|}
|}


=== Notable Alumni ===
=== Notable alumni ===
{{Further|List of Mfantsipim School alumni}}
{{Further|List of Mfantsipim School alumni|Mfantsipim Old Boys Association}}


* [[Ernest Addison]], current governor of the Bank of Ghana
* [[John Mensah-Sarbah]], Diplomat, prominent lawyer and political leader in the Gold Coast (now [[Ghana]])<ref>https://www.ug.edu.gh/docs/TheLifeofJohnMensahSarbah.pdf</ref>
* [[Kwesi Amissah-Arthur|Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur]], former vice president of the [[Republic of Ghana]]
* [[Alex Quaison-Sackey]], Diplomat, first black [[President of the United Nations General Assembly|President of the UN General Assembly]]
* [[Kofi Annan]], Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former Secretary-General of the [[United Nations]]<ref>Appiah, Edwin, [https://www.myjoyonline.com/news/2017/August-10th/kofi-annan-led-demo-over-food-at-mfantsipim.php "Kofi Annan led 'demo' over food at Mfantsipim"], ''Joy Online'', 10 August 2017.</ref>
* [[Kofi Annan]], Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former Secretary-General of the [[United Nations]]<ref>Appiah, Edwin, [https://www.myjoyonline.com/news/2017/August-10th/kofi-annan-led-demo-over-food-at-mfantsipim.php "Kofi Annan led 'demo' over food at Mfantsipim"], ''Joy Online'', 10 August 2017.</ref>
* [[Kow Nkensen Arkaah]], former vice President of the [[Republic of Ghana]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://african-research.com/research/political-history/remembering-the-late-kow-nkensen-arkaah/ | title=Remembering the Late Kow Nkensen Arkaah | date=14 May 2020 }}</ref>
* [[Kofi Abrefa Busia]], Political Leader, Academic and Prime Minister of Ghana (1969 - 1972)<ref>https://www.wesleysoxford.org.uk/people/lay-people/kofi-abrefa-busia</ref>
* [[Raphael Armattoe]], scientist, nationalist, writer<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.modernghana.com/news/422961/ulster-honours-famous-ghanaian-scientist.html | title=Ulster Honours Famous Ghanaian Scientist! }}</ref>
* [[Joseph W.S. de Graft-Johnson]], former Vice President of the [[Republic of Ghana]]<ref>https://www.amazon.com/First-Vice-President-Biography-Graft-Johnson/dp/1956776001</ref>
* [[Albert Adu Boahen]], academic, historian and politician<ref>{{cite web | url=https://ar.ug.edu.gh/albert-kwadwo-adu-boahen | title=Albert Kwadwo Adu Boahen &#124; University of Ghana Alumni Relations Office | access-date=20 November 2023 | archive-date=17 May 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240517234032/https://ar.ug.edu.gh/albert-kwadwo-adu-boahen | url-status=dead }}</ref>
* [[Kow Nkensen Arkaah]], former Vice President of the [[Republic of Ghana]]<ref>https://african-research.com/research/political-history/remembering-the-late-kow-nkensen-arkaah/</ref>
* [[Kofi Abrefa Busia]], political leader, academic and Prime Minister of Ghana (1969–1972)<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.wesleysoxford.org.uk/people/lay-people/kofi-abrefa-busia | title=Kofi Abrefa Busia }}</ref>
* [[Kwesi Amissah-Arthur|Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur]], former Vice President of the [[Republic of Ghana]]
* [[Albert Adu Boahen]], Academic, Historian and Politician <ref>https://ar.ug.edu.gh/albert-kwadwo-adu-boahen</ref>
* [[Raphael Armattoe]], scientist, nationalist, writer<ref>https://www.modernghana.com/news/422961/ulster-honours-famous-ghanaian-scientist.html</ref>
* [[Arthur Wharton]], England’s first black professional footballer<ref>https://www.modernghana.com/sports/575218/arthur-wharton-the-worlds-first-black-professional-footbal.html</ref>
* [[Mohamed Ibn Chambas]], former president of [[Economic Community of West African States|ECOWAS]] commission
* [[Mohamed Ibn Chambas]], former president of [[Economic Community of West African States|ECOWAS]] commission
* [[Joseph W.S. de Graft-Johnson]], former vice president of the [[Republic of Ghana]]<ref>{{cite book | isbn=978-1956776003 | title=The First Vice president: A Biography of JWS de Graft-Johnson | last1=Okyere | first1=Letitia Degraft | date=16 February 2024 | publisher=MacSwain }}</ref>
* [[J. E. Casely Hayford]], journalist and politician<ref>https://kwekudee-tripdownmemorylane.blogspot.com/2013/11/joseph-ephraim-casely-hayford-uncrowned.html</ref>
* [[Joe de Graft]], writer, playwright and dramatist; first director of the Ghana Drama Studio<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6586276-muntu | title=Muntu (African Writers Series) }}</ref>
* [[Kobina Arku Korsah]], first Chief Justice of Ghana<ref>https://theindependentghana.com/six-ghanaians-who-have-been-knighted-by-the-british-monarchy/</ref>
* [[J. E. Casely Hayford]], journalist and politician<ref>{{cite web | url=https://kwekudee-tripdownmemorylane.blogspot.com/2013/11/joseph-ephraim-casely-hayford-uncrowned.html | title=Joseph Ephraim Casely Hayford: "Uncrowned King of West Africa," Father of Ghana's Nationalism, Pan-Africanist and the Founder of the National Congress of British West Africa }}</ref>
* [[Kobina Sekyi]], lawyer, writer, nationalist<ref>https://www.facebook.com/advocatebuabeng/posts/kobina-sekyi-was-educated-at-mfantsipim-school-and-studied-philosophy-at-the-uni/1381750058870893/</ref>
* [[Kobina Arku Korsah]], first Chief Justice of Ghana<ref>https://theindependentghana.com/six-ghanaians-who-have-been-knighted-by-the-british-monarchy/ {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118094313/https://theindependentghana.com/six-ghanaians-who-have-been-knighted-by-the-british-monarchy/ |date=18 November 2023 }} {{Bare URL inline|date=August 2024}}</ref>
* [[Ernest Addison]], Current Governor of the Bank of Ghana
* [[John Mensah-Sarbah]], diplomat, prominent lawyer and political leader in the Gold Coast (now [[Ghana]])<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.ug.edu.gh/docs/TheLifeofJohnMensahSarbah.pdf |title="The Life of John Mensah Sarbah" |access-date=20 November 2023 |archive-date=7 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207235941/https://www.ug.edu.gh/docs/TheLifeofJohnMensahSarbah.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* [[Tsatsu Tsikata]], renowned academic and lawyer <ref>https://whoswhoghana.app/legal-practitioners/tsatsu-tsikata/</ref>
* [[Nana Kobina Nketsia V]], Paramount Chief (Omanhen) of the Essikado (British Sekondi) Traditional Area in the Western Region of Ghana<ref>https://werus.org/nana-kobena-nketsia/</ref>
* [[Nana Kobina Nketsia V]], Paramount Chief (Omanhen) of the Essikado (British Sekondi) Traditional Area in the Western Region of Ghana<ref>{{cite web | url=https://werus.org/nana-kobena-nketsia/ | title=Nana Kobena Nketsia|website=werus.org }}</ref>
* [[Alex Quaison-Sackey]], diplomat, first black [[President of the United Nations General Assembly|president of the UN General Assembly]]
* [[Joe de Graft]], Writer, Playwright and Dramatist. First director of the Ghana Drama Studio <ref>https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6586276-muntu</ref>
* [[Kobina Sekyi]], lawyer, writer, nationalist<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://www.ajssal.com/AJSSAL_Vol.%201,%20No.%204,%20April%202014/THEATRE.pdf|title=Theatre and Social Change: Reasserting Traditional Values Through Theatre: The Role of Kobina Sekyi|first=Samuel Manaseh|last=Yirenkyi|author2=Ernest Kwasi Amponsah|journal=American Journal of Social Sciences, Arts and Literature|volume=1|number=4|date=April 2014|pages=1–8|access-date=18 May 2024}}</ref>
* [[Tsatsu Tsikata]], academic and lawyer<ref>{{cite web | url=https://whoswhoghana.app/legal-practitioners/tsatsu-tsikata/ | title=Tsatsu Tsikata &#124; Who's Who in Ghana }}</ref>
* [[Arthur Wharton]], England’s first black professional footballer<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.modernghana.com/sports/575218/arthur-wharton-the-worlds-first-black-professional-footbal.html|title=Arthur Wharton: the world's first black professional footballer in from Ghana|website=Modern Ghana|date=17 October 2014}}</ref>


==Awards==
==Awards==
*Winners of the 1999 and 2014 editions of the [[Ghana National Science and Maths Quiz|National Science and Maths Quiz]]<ref>{{cite web|title = Mfantsipim 2014 National Science & Maths Quiz|url = http://www.graphic.com.gh/juniors/junior-news/26764-mfantsipim-school-wins-science-maths-quiz.html|date = 9 July 2014|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304003627/http://www.graphic.com.gh/juniors/junior-news/26764-mfantsipim-school-wins-science-maths-quiz.html|archive-date = 4 March 2016|df = dmy-all}}</ref>
*Winners of the 1999 & 2014 editions of the [[Ghana National Science and Maths Quiz|National Science and Maths Quiz]]<ref>{{cite web|title = Mfantsipim 2014 National Science & Maths Quiz|url = http://www.graphic.com.gh/juniors/junior-news/26764-mfantsipim-school-wins-science-maths-quiz.html|date = 9 July 2014|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304003627/http://www.graphic.com.gh/juniors/junior-news/26764-mfantsipim-school-wins-science-maths-quiz.html|archive-date = 4 March 2016|df = dmy-all}}</ref>

*Winners of the 2024 edition of the National Science and Maths Quiz<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-10-30 |title=NSMQ playback: Mfantsipim beats Augusco, Keta SHTS to win contest - MyJoyOnline |url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/nsmq-playback-mfantsipim-beats-augusco-keta-shts-to-win-contest/ |access-date=2024-10-31 |website=www.myjoyonline.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-10-30 |title=Mfantsipim School comes from behind to win third NSMQ trophy, thrashing AUGUSCO, KETASCO {{!}} 3News |url=https://3news.com/news/mfantsipim-school-comes-from-behind-to-win-third-nsmq-trophy-thrashing-augusco-ketasco/ |access-date=2024-10-31 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Mfantsipim School beats Augusco with one point to win 2024 NSMQ |url=https://www.businessghana.com/site/news/general/316936/Mfantsipim-School-beats-Augusco-with-one-point-to-win-2024-NSMQ |access-date=2024-10-31 |website=BusinessGhana}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=HAMMOND |first=WISDOM K. E. |date=2024-10-30 |title=Mfantsipim wins 2024 NSMQ Finals by just 1 point difference |url=https://educationnewsconsult.com/blog/mfantsipim-wins-2024-nsmq-finals-by-just-1-point-difference/ |access-date=2024-10-31 |website=Education-News Consult |language=en-US}}</ref>

*Winner of the 2021 of National Public Speaking competitions
*Six-time Sprite basketball champions


==References==
==References==
Line 358: Line 421:
{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}


[[Category:1876 establishments in Gold Coast (British colony)]]
[[Category:Boarding schools in Ghana]]
[[Category:Boys' schools in Ghana]]
[[Category:Cape Coast]]
[[Category:Cape Coast]]
[[Category:Christian schools in Ghana]]
[[Category:Education in the Central Region (Ghana)]]
[[Category:Educational institutions established in 1876]]
[[Category:Educational institutions established in 1876]]
[[Category:Boarding schools in Ghana]]
[[Category:High schools in Ghana]]
[[Category:High schools in Ghana]]
[[Category:1876 establishments in Gold Coast (British colony)]]
[[Category:Mfantsipim School alumni| ]]
[[Category:Mfantsipim School alumni]]
[[Category:Christian schools in Ghana]]
[[Category:Boys' schools in Africa]]
[[Category:Boys' schools in Ghana]]

Latest revision as of 12:40, 23 December 2024

Mfantsipim School
Address
Map
Aboom Wells Road

Cape Coast

Central Region

Cape Coast
,
101

Ghana
Coordinates5°07′08″N 1°15′04″W / 5.119°N 1.251°W / 5.119; -1.251
Information
School typePublic secondary/high school mission
MottoDwen Hwɛ Kan
(Think and Look Ahead)
Religious affiliation(s)Christian
DenominationMethodist
Established3 April 1876; 148 years ago (1876-04-03)
Sister schoolWesley Girls High School
School districtCape Coast
HeadmasterRev. Ebenezer K. Aidoo
ChaplainRev. Samuel
Staff147 teachers
GenderBoys
Age16 to 20
Enrollment2500+
Average class size55
LanguageEnglish
Houses8
Colour(s)Crimson   and black  
Song"For all the Saints" (MHB 832)
NicknameKwabotwe
Rivals
YearbookBotaepa
AffiliationMethodist Church, Ghana
AlumniMfantsipim Old Boys Association (MOBA)
School anthem"Dwen Hwɛ Kan"

Mfantsipim is an all-boys boarding secondary school in Cape Coast, Ghana,[1][2] established by the Methodist Church in 1876 to foster intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth on the then Gold Coast. Its founding name was Wesleyan High School and the first headmaster was James Picot, a French scholar, who was only 18 years old on his appointment.

Mfantsipim is nicknamed "The School" because it gave birth to other prominent schools such as Prempeh College.[3]

History

[edit]

The idea of establishing a collegiate school to raise educational standards in the Gold Coast was first mooted in 1865 but was not realized until 1876 when the Wesleyan High School was established in Cape Coast with donations from local businessmen and the support of the Methodist Missionary Society in London. The school was originally intended to be situated in Accra, owing to a decision by the British Government to move the capital of the Gold Coast from Cape Coast to Accra by 1870. However, due to local agitation and the urgency to implement the idea, it was finally established in Cape Coast, although there were initial plans to later move it to Accra, a relocation that never happened.

On 3 April 1876, the school was established as Wesleyan High School.

Foundation and early development

[edit]

Mfantsipim School was established in 1876 as Wesleyan High School in Cape Coast, primarily to train teachers with an initial enrollment of 17 pupils. The idea of establishing a collegiate school in the Gold Coast dates back to 1865, but it took eleven years to realize this vision. The school's location was chosen amidst local agitation and the urgent need to start the institution, despite initial plans to establish it in Accra.[4][5]

The first headmaster was James Picot, a young French scholar, who was only 18 years old at his appointment. Despite his youth and relatively limited experience, Picot played a crucial role in the school's early days.[6]

Name change and evolution

[edit]

In 1905 a graduate of the school, John Mensah Sarbah, founded a rival school named Mfantsipim; the name derives from "Mfantsefo-apem",[7] literally meaning "thousands of Fantes" but actually meaning "the gathering of hosts of scholars for change" originally by the Fantes. In July of the same year, the two schools were merged under the supervision of the Methodist Church, keeping the name Mfantsipim.[8]

Academic and cultural traditions

[edit]

The school celebrates annual events such as the Speech and Prize Giving Day, which dates back to 1908, initiated by Rev. W. T. Balmer. This event is significant for recognizing academic and extracurricular achievements and maintaining a connection with alumni. The school anthem, sung at various events, encapsulates the school's history, values, and aspirations.[9][10]

Historical relocation and expansion

[edit]

Originally built on the premises of the Cape Coast Castle, Mfantsipim was later moved to its current location on Kwabotwe Hill in northern Cape Coast in 1930. This move marked a significant phase in the school's expansion and development.[9]

Administration

[edit]

Head boys from 1928 to 2024

[edit]
Year Head boy Year Head boy
1928 K. W. O. Assan 1975/76 Y. B. Yarquah
1930 C. J. Bannerman 1976/77 Fiifi Brandful
1931 L. K. Apaloo 1977/78 Kweku A. Awotwi
1932 H. K. Amu 1978/79 Arthur Hughes
1933 E. A. L. Bannerman 1979/80 Wormor K. Klu
1934 Peter Vanderpuije 1980/81 Sidney K. Koranteng
1935 E. A. Mensah 1981/82 Kodwo Ghartey-Tagoe
1936 Joe Appiah 1982/83 F. K. T. Bedu-Addo
1937 W. B. Amankwatia 1983/84 M. Adjei-Addison
1938 K. A. Amonoo 1984/85 S. Akpebu
1939 M. A. Baddoo 1985/86 Eugene B. Sangmuah
1940 M. A. Oduro 1986/87 A. Kittoe
1941 A. W. Kayper-Mensah 1987/88 D. D. K. Larbi
1942 G. S. O. Chinery 1988/89 Daniel Tweneboah
1943 J. C. de Graft 1989/90 G. Asomaning
1944 G. M. Odamtten 1990/91 Yaw Berko
1945 Alex Quaison-Sackey 1991/92 M. Y. Paintsil
1946 J. L. Duncan-Neizer 1992/93 A. O. Ankrah
1947 J. W. Mensah 1993/94 E. Opoku Serebour
1948 J. W. L. Tamakloe 1994/95 Kwesi Nsaful
1949 P. A. L. Odidja 1995/96 Michael Ofori-Koree
1950 B. T. K. Adadevoh 1996 Collins Anno
1951 J. O. Martey 1997 James Aggrey-Orleans
1998 Kwabena Anti
1999 Lawrence Ofosu
2000 Kofi Nimo Domfeh
2001 K. Obiri-Yeboah
2001/02 N. N. Lokko
2002/03 A. K. Nsiah Asare
2015/2016 Nigel Twi Yeaboah
2016/2017 Jacob Ewusi Wilson
2017/2018 Edwin Edem Sedodo
2018/2019 Atta Doomson
2023 Alvin Elorm Addai
2024 Peter Appiah-Thompson
2025 Ato Kwamina Esilifie

Notable alumni

[edit]
Further information: List of Mfantsipim School alumni and Mfantsipim Old Boys Association

Awards

[edit]
  • Winners of the 2024 edition of the National Science and Maths Quiz[26][27][28][29]
  • Winner of the 2021 of National Public Speaking competitions
  • Six-time Sprite basketball champions

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Mfantsipim Senior Secondary School" Archived 28 January 2018 at the Wayback Machine, Ghana Schools.
  2. ^ "Tears at Mfantsipim school amidst tight security". Ghanaweb. 17 September 2019. Retrieved 4 June 2020.
  3. ^ "Mfantsipim School" Archived 28 January 2018 at the Wayback Machine, Ghana Nation, 13 March 2017.
  4. ^ "Mfantsipim School History | Schools In Ghana". schoolsInGh. Retrieved 14 December 2023.
  5. ^ "Mfantsipim School: History, Academic Excellence, and Admission Process". Best Online Portal. 5 May 2023. Retrieved 14 December 2023.
  6. ^ "The School – MOBA".
  7. ^ "Meaning of 'Mfantsipim'". AfricaSchoolsOnline. 7 June 2017. Archived from the original on 15 June 2018. Retrieved 14 June 2018.
  8. ^ Richard Bagudu (2007). Judging Annan. Bloomington, IN: AuthorHouse. ISBN 9781425960933, pp. 22–23.
  9. ^ a b "Mfantsipim School: History, Academic Excellence, and Admission Process". 5 May 2023.
  10. ^ Gyasi, Kwame (2016). "Mfantsipim – 140 Years Of Senior Secondary Education In Ghana (1)". Modern Ghana.
  11. ^ Appiah, Edwin, "Kofi Annan led 'demo' over food at Mfantsipim", Joy Online, 10 August 2017.
  12. ^ "Remembering the Late Kow Nkensen Arkaah". 14 May 2020.
  13. ^ "Ulster Honours Famous Ghanaian Scientist!".
  14. ^ "Albert Kwadwo Adu Boahen | University of Ghana Alumni Relations Office". Archived from the original on 17 May 2024. Retrieved 20 November 2023.
  15. ^ "Kofi Abrefa Busia".
  16. ^ Okyere, Letitia Degraft (16 February 2024). The First Vice president: A Biography of JWS de Graft-Johnson. MacSwain. ISBN 978-1956776003.
  17. ^ "Muntu (African Writers Series)".
  18. ^ "Joseph Ephraim Casely Hayford: "Uncrowned King of West Africa," Father of Ghana's Nationalism, Pan-Africanist and the Founder of the National Congress of British West Africa".
  19. ^ https://theindependentghana.com/six-ghanaians-who-have-been-knighted-by-the-british-monarchy/ Archived 18 November 2023 at the Wayback Machine [bare URL]
  20. ^ ""The Life of John Mensah Sarbah"" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 7 December 2023. Retrieved 20 November 2023.
  21. ^ "Nana Kobena Nketsia". werus.org.
  22. ^ Yirenkyi, Samuel Manaseh; Ernest Kwasi Amponsah (April 2014). "Theatre and Social Change: Reasserting Traditional Values Through Theatre: The Role of Kobina Sekyi" (PDF). American Journal of Social Sciences, Arts and Literature. 1 (4): 1–8. Retrieved 18 May 2024.
  23. ^ "Tsatsu Tsikata | Who's Who in Ghana".
  24. ^ "Arthur Wharton: the world's first black professional footballer in from Ghana". Modern Ghana. 17 October 2014.
  25. ^ "Mfantsipim 2014 National Science & Maths Quiz". 9 July 2014. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016.
  26. ^ "NSMQ playback: Mfantsipim beats Augusco, Keta SHTS to win contest - MyJoyOnline". www.myjoyonline.com. 30 October 2024. Retrieved 31 October 2024.
  27. ^ "Mfantsipim School comes from behind to win third NSMQ trophy, thrashing AUGUSCO, KETASCO | 3News". 30 October 2024. Retrieved 31 October 2024.
  28. ^ "Mfantsipim School beats Augusco with one point to win 2024 NSMQ". BusinessGhana. Retrieved 31 October 2024.
  29. ^ HAMMOND, WISDOM K. E. (30 October 2024). "Mfantsipim wins 2024 NSMQ Finals by just 1 point difference". Education-News Consult. Retrieved 31 October 2024.

Media related to Mfantsipim School at Wikimedia Commons


Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Mfantsipim_School&oldid=1264772591"