By Adnan Adams Mohammed
It was an evening where heritage met haute couture as distinguished Akoras, state officials, and fashion enthusiasts gathered for the grand Fundraising Dinner, Fashion Gala, and official launch of the Achimota Centenary Cloth.
The event, marking a century of the school’s monumental impact on African education, became a vibrant display of the enduring “Black and Gold” spirit.
Standing out among the high-profile dignitaries was Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Debrah, representating of the President, John Dramani Mahama, and himself as an old student whose presence and elegant poise underscored the class and prestige associated with the historic institution.
A Century of Academic and Cultural Pride
Reflecting on the milestone, Dr. Julius Debrah, an alumnus himself, shared his profound pride in the school’s journey.
“For One hundred (100) years, the Black and Gold has stood as a symbol of excellence, discipline, leadership, and service,” Dr. Debrah noted. “It was a deeply nostalgic and inspiring evening as I joined distinguished Old Achimotans, invited guests, and friends of Achimota School to celebrate a century of remarkable impact.”
The gala wasn’t just a celebration of the past, but a showcase of modern Ghanaian creativity. The runway came alive as models strutted in various bespoke designs utilizing the newly unveiled Centenary Cloth, merging traditional pride with contemporary style.
For Dr. Debrah, the evening transcended a typical school anniversary.
“As an Old Achimotan myself, the occasion was a powerful reminder that Achimota is far more than a school,” he stated. “It is a historic institution that has shaped generations of leaders, innovators, professionals, creatives, and public servants across Ghana, Africa, and the world.”
Government Commitment and Infrastructure Boost
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the night bore fruits of substantial developmental promises. Delivering a message on behalf of President Mahama, Dr. Debrah delivered tangible pledges to the school’s administration and the Old Achimotan Association (OAA).
He reaffirmed a steadfast commitment to tackling the pressing challenges facing the school, particularly infrastructure and encroachment.
“On behalf of H.E. President John Dramani Mahama, I reaffirmed Government’s commitment to working closely with the school and the Old Achimotan Association to address key issues relating to infrastructure, development, and the protection of Achimota’s lands for future generations,” Dr. Debrah announced to resounding applause.
In a move that drew cheers from the alumni and faculty present, he further revealed immediate interventions slated for the campus.
“I was also pleased to announce that approval has been granted for works to improve the road network within the school, alongside other interventions aimed at strengthening the learning environment and preserving the proud legacy of this great institution.”
A Call to Action for the Next Century
As the beautiful centenary cloth was officially unveiled, draping the hall in the symbolic black and gold motifs, the call for collective responsibility took center stage. The night concluded with a charge to all alumni globally to ensure that the flame lit a century ago continues to burn bright.
“As we unveiled the beautiful centenary cloth and reflected on a hundred years of excellence, one message stood clear: the future of Achimota will depend on the continued commitment, generosity, and active involvement of all who carry the spirit of the Black and Gold,” Dr. Debrah urged. “Together, let us protect the legacy, strengthen the institution, and inspire generations yet unborn.”
