Mfantsipim School Prepares for Historic 150th Anniversary as Alumni Celebrate the 'Kwabotwe' Legacy

Mfantsipim School, Ghana’s premier secondary institution, has officially commenced preparations for its landmark 150th-anniversary celebrations, marking a sesquicentennial of educational excellence since its founding on April 3, 1876. In a significant step toward the historic 2026 milestone, the Mfantsipim 150th Anniversary Planning Committee recently paid a courtesy call on Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, the Paramount Chief of the Oguaa Traditional Area. Led by Kenneth Shelton Aikins, the delegation briefed the traditional leadership on the roadmap for the celebrations, which are set to culminate in a grand durbar on November 14, 2026, solidifying the school's position as a cornerstone of Ghanaian academic heritage.

The upcoming anniversary, themed around the concept of gratitude and communal heritage, will feature a unique “Aseda Durbar.” This special thanksgiving event is designed to bring together other historic secondary schools in Cape Coast, fostering a spirit of unity among the institutions that have shaped the nation’s leadership. During the visit, Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II expressed his unwavering commitment to supporting the celebrations, while the Headmaster of the school, Ebenezer Aidoo, extended appreciation for the traditional council's continuous guidance. This collaboration underscores the deep-rooted connection between the school, colloquially known as "Kwabotwe," and the Oguaa community.

As the school looks toward its future, the enduring values of "Mfantsipism" continue to resonate through its alumni, such as the 2016 year group (MOBA ’16). Reflecting on their journey a decade after first entering the school’s gates, these alumni highlight the transformative power of the institution’s motto, "Dwen Hwɛ Kan" (Think and Look Ahead). The rigorous daily routines—ranging from the steep climbs of the Cape Coast hills to disciplined morning assemblies—have traditionally instilled character traits of honesty, grit, and humility. This "brotherhood beyond the hills" represents the living legacy of the school, as each generation carries forward a profound sense of identity and commitment to national contribution.

The convergence of these historic preparations and the deep-seated loyalty of its Old Boys (MOBAs) sets the stage for a celebration that transcends mere ceremony. As Mfantsipim approaches 2026, the anniversary serves as both a reflection on a century and a half of educational leadership and a call to action for future generations. The planned events will not only celebrate the past but also reinforce the school's mission to produce resilient individuals prepared for the complexities of modern life, ensuring that the light of "Kwabotwe" continues to shine across the African continent and beyond.