ST. THERESA’S CATHOLIC BASIC SCHOOL CELEBRATES 40TH SPEECH AND PRIZE-GIVING DAY WITH A CALL TO INSPIRE SERVICE THROUGH CATHOLIC EDUCATION
St. Theresa’s Catholic Basic School, North Kaneshie, celebrated its 40th Speech and Prize-Giving Day and Second Kindergarten Two Graduation Ceremony on Friday, July 17, 2026, under the theme “Inspiring Service Through Catholic Education.”
The celebration brought together the Auxiliary Bishop of Accra, Most Rev. John Kobina Louis, Priests, Religious Sisters, Catholic education officials, traditional leaders, parents, old students, teachers, learners, and guests to celebrate four decades of academic excellence, character formation, and dedicated service.
The celebration commenced with an impressive parade mounted by the school’s cadet corps, which drew admiration from the audience and set the tone for the day’s activities.
Delivering the welcome address, the Headmistress of St. Theresa’s Catholic Basic School, Sr. Chris Sheila Damalie, HDR, spoke on the theme, “Inspiring Service Through Catholic Education.” Sr. Chris Sheila Damalie explained that Catholic education extends beyond academic achievement to form character, deepen faith and prepare young people to become servant leaders. Quoting Matthew 20:26, she reminded learners that true greatness is found in serving others, while Pope Francis has also described education as an act of hope that builds a future founded on faith, hope and love.
She commended teachers for their dedication and professionalism, praised parents for their partnership with the school, and expressed profound appreciation to the 1999 Year Group for sponsoring the awards presented during the ceremony.
Congratulating the award winners, she encouraged them to remain disciplined, resilient and hardworking while urging all learners to remember that true excellence is measured not only by academic success but also by integrity, humility and a willingness to serve others. She also encouraged the Kindergarten Two graduands to embrace the next stage of their educational journey with courage, wisdom and faith in God.
The Chairperson of the occasion, Madam Akosua Agyepong, inspired both parents and learners by sharing her own educational journey. She recalled attending Harries International Preparatory School before continuing to Holy Child Secondary School, explaining that although she discovered her passion for music at a young age, she remained committed to her education. She advised parents to nurture the God-given talents of their children rather than forcing them into careers based on parental ambitions. According to her, every child deserves the opportunity to pursue his or her dreams while receiving a solid educational foundation.
Addressing the learners, she encouraged them never to feel shy about asking questions in class whenever they did not understand a lesson. She explained that asking questions demonstrates a willingness to learn and should never be a source of embarrassment.
Using the letters in “St. Teresa,” she described the values that define the school community as Special, Truthful, Hardworking, Excellent, Respectful, Encouraging, Serious and Appreciative, adding that these qualities have contributed immensely to the school’s success over the years.
She also challenged parents to spend quality time with their children despite busy work schedules, stressing that parental involvement plays a significant role in a child’s academic and moral development.
Speaking on behalf of the Class of 1999, Mr. Jesse Baffoe-Danso expressed gratitude for the values and education they received from St. Theresa’s Catholic Basic School. He recalled that in celebration of their twentieth anniversary after leaving the school, the year group undertook several legacy projects, including refurbishing the Primary Staff Room, renovating the basketball court and donating basketball equipment to support sports development. He described the invitation to sponsor the 40th Speech and Prize-Giving Day as both an honour and an opportunity to once again give back to the institution that shaped their lives.
His address, however, took an emotional turn when he announced the passing of one of their members, Mr. Joseph Mensah Otoo, during preparations for the celebration. According to him, the late Joseph Mensah Otoo had already begun making arrangements to organise a special feast for the award recipients before his untimely death. He described him as a generous and committed supporter whose passion for serving others would never be forgotten. The gathering observed a minute’s silence in memory of the departed alumnus before proceedings continued.
Mr. Jesse Baffoe-Danso congratulated all the award recipients and encouraged them to remain humble and continue striving for excellence. He also urged learners who did not receive awards not to be discouraged,
Delivering the keynote address, the Guest Speaker, Most Rev. John Kobina Louis, congratulated St. Theresa’s Catholic Basic School on its remarkable journey and thanked all those who have contributed to the school’s growth over the past forty years. Reflecting on the theme, “Inspiring Service Through Catholic Education,” the Auxiliary Bishop observed that although the world continues to experience rapid technological advancement, society is also confronted with increasing selfishness, dishonesty, violence and indifference.
Drawing inspiration from Matthew 22:34–40, the Bishop explained that Catholic education rests on three inseparable pillars: a strong relationship with God, continuous personal development and loving service to others.
He noted that Catholic schools educate both the mind and the soul, teaching learners that knowledge is a gift from God and that wisdom is achieved when learning is guided by faith, humility and obedience to God’s will. He reminded them that whether they become doctors, teachers, engineers, lawyers, entrepreneurs, priests, religious or public servants, their greatest achievement will not be measured by wealth or status but by the positive difference they make in the lives of others.
The Bishop also commended teachers for serving as mentors and role models whose dedication continues to shape future generations. He equally encouraged parents to reinforce at home the values of prayer, discipline, honesty and respect taught in the classroom.
One of the major highlights of the celebration was the presentation of certificates and Awards to the Kindergarten Two graduands, pupils, and students who distinguished themselves academically during the academic year. The award winners were recognised for their commitment to excellence, discipline, and outstanding academic performance.
The school also honoured retired teachers Mr. Yawo Aziakou and Mr. Patrick Donkor with citations in recognition of their dedicated and selfless service to St. Theresa’s Catholic Basic School. The 1999 Year Group also received a citation for its outstanding contribution and sponsorship of the awards ceremony.
In an interview, the Headmistress of the school, Sr. Chris Sheila Damalie, described the celebration as another historic milestone in the school’s journey. She thanked God for granting favourable weather despite earlier concerns and expressed sincere appreciation to all dignitaries, parents, staff, old students, sponsors and stakeholders whose support made the programme successful. She noted that the cadet parade, choreography, cultural performances and academic awards reflected the school’s commitment to holistic Catholic education. She also thanked DEPSOCOM ACCRA for covering the event.
Mr. Kwame Essel-Koomson, an Old Student (1999 Year Group), recalled the discipline that characterised life at St. Theresa’s during his time as a student, describing it as one of the key reasons for his year group’s outstanding academic success. He encouraged current students to remain disciplined, hardworking and focused on their education, urging them to return in future to support their alma mater. He added that the 1999 Year Group has consistently contributed to the school’s development and expressed the hope that today’s students would continue that tradition.
Amna Danetey, a parent, expressed her delight over her son’s graduation from KG2, describing it as a proud moment for her family. She said the ceremony reminded parents of the importance of spending quality time with their children and providing them with the guidance, love, and encouragement needed to become responsible future leaders.
In an interview, retired Mathematics teacher Mr. Patrick Donko reflected on his 25 years of service at St. Theresa’s Catholic Basic School. He attributed the excellent academic performance of many students to regular assessments, continuous practice, and discipline. He urged parents to encourage their children to appreciate Mathematics, stressing that the subject is essential in everyday life and serves as the foundation for many careers.
Kayla Ekua Yeboah, Overall Best Student (Form Two), speaking after receiving her award, said she was excited to be recognised as the Overall Best Student in Form Two. She explained that the award would motivate her to work even harder and encouraged colleagues who were not recognised not to lose hope but to remain determined and continue striving for excellence.
Mrs. Lily Aryee, Assistant Headmistress and Steering Committee Chairperson, said the successful celebration was the result of months of planning, teamwork and prayer. She expressed gratitude to the members of the organising committee, sponsors, and, in particular, the 1999 Year Group for their generous support. She also appealed to all old students to continue supporting the school’s future celebrations and developmental projects.
Mrs. Safoa Osei-Tutu Dossah, an Old Student, thanked the teachers who played a significant role in shaping her life and encouraged fellow alumni to continue giving back to the school. She noted that Catholic education develops both the mind and character and urged students to uphold the school’s values of “Know, Love and Serve” throughout their lives.
Mrs. Helen Akorfa Yengbe, Steering Committee Secretary Express joy for the success of the ceremony, the journey towards the anniversary celebration as one filled with planning, meetings and prayer. She thanked the school management, teachers, parents and all supporters for contributing to the success of the programme and prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the school.
Mr. Daniel Anarfo Yin, a member of the Organising Committee, credited the event’s success to teamwork, dedication, and divine guidance. He further praised Mrs. Lily Aryee, the Assistant Headmistress, for her commitment and for welcoming input from the committee during the planning.
Mrs. Barbara Attoh-Owoo, Parent and Trade Exhibition Coordinator, highlighted the success of the school’s third annual trade exhibition, organised alongside the anniversary celebration. She thanked exhibitors and corporate organisations, especially the founder of Teresa Clinic, an alumna of the school, for providing free health screening services. She encouraged more parents, businesses and old students to support future exhibitions.
Madam Millicent Kaba, PTA Chairperson, appealed to the old students, corporate organisations and other stakeholders to support the school’s ongoing infrastructure projects, including the assembly hall and the renovation of the basketball court. She emphasised that sports remain an important part of the school’s heritage and called for greater support to sustain that tradition.
Mrs. Cyndy Banson described her child’s KG2 graduation as a proud and emotional moment. Drawing from her own experience as a product of Catholic education, she encouraged parents to enrol their children in Catholic schools because of their strong emphasis on academic excellence, discipline, moral formation and spiritual growth. She prayed that all the children would continue to grow in wisdom, faith and service to God.
The audience was entertained with colourful performances by the students. These included recitals, choreography and a lively Kete cultural display, which added excitement to the celebration and showcased the talents of the pupils.
Also present were Rev. Fr. Destiny Amenuvor, Local Manager, Mrs. Esther Adimado of the Catholic Education Unit, representatives from Nii Okanta Ankrah II, and members of the school’s 1999 Year Group, Squadron Leader Christian Amponsah, Air force Base Accra, Sr. Matilda Quist, SSpS, Bishop Bowers School
Story by
Thelma N.E Impraim -Holm
Depsocom Accra
