Generations of alumni of Ghana Secondary Technical School (GSTS), affectionately known as Giants, at the weekend converged at the school’s auditorium in Takoradi to mark the school’s historic 117th Founders’ Day.
The occasion, held under the thought-provoking theme: “GSTS @117: Developing Resilient Leaders Through Science, Technology and Character,” was not just a mere gathering, but a celebration of a legacy that began on August 9, 1909, and continues to shape the technical and industrial destiny of the Republic of Ghana, which underscored the school’s unique educational philosophy.
Over the years, the school has focused on producing graduates who are not only technically astute, but also grounded in the unwavering moral discipline required to navigate the complexities of a modern, fast-changing global landscape.
Presiding over the high-profile ceremony was the esteemed academician, Professor Anthony Simons, a former student who reminded the gathering that GSTS had consistently served as the engine room for leadership across all sectors of the Ghanaian economy.
He noted that the school’s track record of excellence is a feat that deserves both national commendation and sustained institutional support.
In the keynote address delivered with military precision, Maj. Gen. Matthew K. Essien (Rtd.), also a former student challenged the current generation of students to adopt a holistic approach to leadership development.
According to the retired General, the deliberate combination of scientific knowledge and unwavering character was the only way for future leaders to diagnose national problems with clarity and implement solutions with the precision and integrity necessary for sustainable development.
Taking his turn to address the fraternity, the Global Alumni President, Daniel Kwadjo Teye emphasized the association’s renewed commitment to upgrading the school’s infrastructure and expanding mentorship programs highlighting GAA as a global force dedicated to ensuring that GSTS students remain at the forefront of technological innovation and professional leadership.
The occasion featured top brass from Ghana’s security services, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and Prisons Service, giving credence to the school’s deep-rooted connection to national service, with countless old students having risen to the highest ranks of the Ghana Armed Forces and other vital public safety institutions over the decades.
The intellectual climax of the celebration was the ‘Distinguished Alumni Lecture’. It served as a platform for deep reflection on how GSTS can continue to lead in an era reshaped by artificial intelligence and advanced engineering. The lecture reinforced the idea that for Ghana to thrive, its educational foundations must remain resilient and forward-looking, blending the traditions of the past with the innovations of the future.
A major highlight that drew thunderous applause was the presentation of the GSTS Alumni Association (GAA) Distinguished Alumni Awards, which were bestowed upon four former students whose names have become synonymous with excellence, leadership, and selfless service to the school and the nation.
The honourees included Ing. Francis Wouland Tuyee (posthumously), recognized for his pioneering leadership as the first Mayor of the Tema Municipality; Commodore Steve George Obimpeh (Rtd.), a former Chief of Naval Staff and Minister of State, celebrated for a lifetime of dedicated service to the Republic and his enduring commitment to his alma mater; Ing. Seth Ahiekporand, and the world-renowned Prof. Yaw Duodu Yeboah, for being the first person to earn four degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in just four years.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Commodore Steve George Obimpeh expressed profound gratitude to the Alumni Association and the school authorities and urged the younger generation to stay committed to national service and to always remember that GSTS gave them the solid foundation to stand tall among their peers on the global stage.
The solemn essence of the Founders’ Day was captured perfectly during the Memorial Parade and wreath-laying ceremony during which a poignant minute of silence was observed as the “Last Post” echoed through the campus.
The school community paid tribute to former teachers and students who served during the First and Second World Wars to serve as a powerful reminder of the values of patriotism and sacrifice that are woven into the very fabric of the institution.
The event further recognized the spirit of alumni philanthropy through the GAA Donor Appreciation and Alumni Leadership Awards with GAA North America chapters lauded for their sustained contributions to campus renovations.
The vital role of the faculty was also acknowledged, with retired teachers like Thomas Kofi Mensah being honoured for the decades of mentorship that has shaped the school today.
The headmaster, Rev. Dr. Kennedy Obeng, reaffirmed the school’s commitment to its founding vision. He noted that from the local workshops of Takoradi to the highest offices of state, the GSTS impact is undeniable as it remains a beacon of hope for Ghana’s industrial future, fuelled by the resilience, brotherhood, and excellence of its global alumni.
From Mohammed T. Kataba, Takoradi
