By Michael Foli Jackidy
Ho (V/R), Sept. 24, GNA – Sonrise Christian High School, a private institution in the Ho municipality, has held its 16th graduation ceremony in honour of the 2024-year group of West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) who just completed their exams.
The year group, which began in 2021 with about 230 students, concluded their academic journey with 197 students successfully graduating at the weekend.
Mr Joseph Dzamesi, the Administrator of Sonrise Christian High School, acknowledged the challenges faced by private schools in Ghana, but expressed pride in the school’s consistent delivery of quality education.
“Despite the challenges private schools face, Sonrise continues to be a pacesetter in providing quality secondary education,” he said.
He said approximately 80 per cent of the school’s graduates qualified for admission into tertiary institutions within their first year after graduation.
In addition to the curriculum, Mr Dzamesi highlighted the school’s commitment to equipping students with additional skills for the workforce.
“One unique initiative is the introduction of sign language as a core subject, ensuring that every student graduates with basic proficiency.
“All of our graduates are equipped with the ability to communicate in basic sign language, a skill that will undoubtedly set them apart in their future careers. Imagine a doctor who does not need an interpreter to treat a hearing-impaired patient—that is the value of a Sonrise education,” he emphasized.
Mr Dzamesi called on the government to recognise the significant contributions of private schools to the nation’s educational system, urging authorities to treat them as partners rather than competitors.
He stressed that private institutions play a crucial role in reducing the pressure on public schools by providing access to quality education.
He also expressed gratitude to parents and teachers for their support and dedication in nurturing the students.
Wishing the graduates well, he reminded them, “You are leaving this phase of your academic journey but beginning another chapter in your life”.
Mr Adrian Adotevi, the Head of Accounts and Finance at Ernest Chemist, delivered the keynote address, focusing on the theme: “Embracing Change and Uncertainty: The Key to Success in Life”.
He encouraged the graduates to embrace change, noting that the world they are stepping into is constantly evolving.
“Change brings opportunities, and those who are prepared will be able to seize them,” he said.
Mr Adotevi also stressed the importance of planning for the future, advising the graduates to save and build relationships that may be valuable in their personal and professional lives.
“Social capital is critical-build relationships with people who may help you in the future,” he urged.
Mr Divine Klu, the Chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), also offered his well wishes, encouraging the graduates to seize the opportunities that lie ahead in the job market and beyond.
Several graduates spoke to the GNA about their journey, reflecting on the challenges they faced but emphasising that determination and hard work saw them through.
Many expressed optimisms about achieving good grades in the WASSCE and progressing to tertiary education.
The ceremony also recognised outstanding students for their academic achievements and exemplary behavior.
Additionally, awards were presented to some alumni who excelled during their WASSCE in 2023.
The event was attended by hundreds of parents, friends, and dignitaries from the educational sector, including the Ho Municipal Education Director, Dr Esther Adzo Yeboah-Adzimah, who served as Chairperson for the occasion.
The atmosphere was filled with pride and anticipation as the graduates prepared to embark on the next chapter of their lives.
GNA