In a spectacular display of pride and tradition, the esteemed Prince of Wales School (POW) marked its 99th anniversary with a day of grand celebrations on Saturday, April 6th, 2024, at the school’s grounds in Kingtom, Freetown.
The event commenced with a stirring flag-raising ceremony, drawing hundreds of Princewaleans from near and far to honor nearly a century of academic excellence and heritage.
Special guests, including the President of OPWA UK, traveled from the United Kingdom to witness the momentous occasion, adding to the significance of the festivities. The event featured a lineup of distinguished speakers, including Tunde Cole and Ibrahim Cole, CEO of Leoneoil, who delivered inspiring addresses. Dr. Walton Gilpin, MD of Rokel Commercial Bank, also shared insights, enriching the program with diverse perspectives.
Following the flag-raising ceremony, the celebrations continued with a spirited sports meeting, where Manfield House emerged victorious, claiming the top position amidst fierce competition. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as old boys showcased their athletic prowess, further enhancing the sense of camaraderie and nostalgia.
As the day progressed, attendees indulged in a variety of social activities, with old boys showcasing their talents and sharing fond memories of their time at POW. Additionally, members of OPWA Fourahbay College hosted an Iftar, breaking their fast alongside students of Fourah Bay College, fostering bonds of friendship and community.
The event drew a diverse array of attendees, including notable faces from POW’s rich history, with Dr. Sama Banya, the oldest Princewalean present, adding a touch of reverence to the festivities. The jubilant atmosphere reflected the deep-rooted pride and affection that POW alumni hold for their alma mater.
As the celebrations drew to a close, anticipation mounted for the upcoming Thanksgiving ceremony, scheduled to continue until April 21st.
The resounding success of POW’s 99th-anniversary celebrations serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the school and the unwavering devotion of its alumni, ensuring that the spirit of Prince of Wales School will continue to shine brightly for generations to come.
The President of OPWA, Sulaiman R Kamara emphasised the significance of reaching the milestone of 99 years, noting that it evokes a sense of pride and nostalgia as OPWA approaches its centennial . He extended a warm invitation to all Princewaleans, urging them to come together and make the 100 Centenary celebration not just classic but a mark in the history of school activities in Sierra Leone.
