By Emma Black

A wave of pride and purpose swept through the grounds of Kenema Government Secondary School on Friday, May 2, 2025, as students, teachers, alumni, and community leaders gathered to mark two remarkable milestones the school’s 73rd anniversary and the 50th anniversary of the Kenema old student’s association (KOSA). The highlight of the occasion was a powerful keynote speech delivered by Inspector General of Police (IGP) William Fayia Sellu an alumnus of the school whose return was met with thunderous applause and admiration.

The celebration, held in the heart of Kenema, was not just an event but a testament to the school’s enduring legacy as a center of learning and leadership in Sierra Leone, for decades, Kenema Government Secondary School (KSS) has shaped minds, inspired service, and contributed profoundly to national development, on this day, it stood tall not only in remembrance of the past but in promise for the future.

IGP Sellu began his address with heartfelt gratitude, what a truly special day this is, he said, his words echoing across the school compound, to our cherished parents, beloved pupils, dedicated teachers, alumni, friends of the school, and honoured guests thank you for being here to celebrate with us.

He described the occasion as more than a date on the calendar it was a sacred opportunity for reflection, appreciation, and recommitment to excellence, this is not simply another event, he noted, it is a moment of significance, a time to honour 73 extraordinary years of impact.

Sellu spoke of the school with reverence, calling it a guiding light, the place where hope is born, potentials are nurtured, and excellence is the only standard, despite its 73-year history, he reminded the audience that the journey of KSS was far from over, yet in so many ways, we are just getting started. Our roots run deep, and our branches spread wide.

As a proud old boy of the school, IGP Sellu urged the audience to honour the past by investing in the future. let us honour those who came before us by investing in those who are coming after us, he said, calling for renewed dedication to education that transforms lives, as an old boy, I am proud; as a citizen, I am inspired; as a keynote speaker, I am hopeful; as listeners, the fire has been lit within you.

He paid special tribute to the teachers and parents who, through their dedication, have upheld the school’s mission, let us celebrate the men and women behind the scenes our teachers, school leaders, and parents who are the pillars of our strength.

Drawing a direct link between education and national development, Sellu emphasized, Nation-building begins in schools like this one. Before a nation can rise economically, politically, or socially, it must first raise a generation that understands responsibility, value, and service delivery, this has been the real mission of Government Secondary School Kenema.

He went on to describe the school as a tree planted along the bank of a river, as it continuously brings forth good fruits, highlighting its consistent role in producing capable leaders across various sectors in Sierra Leone.

Looking ahead, IGP Sellu stressed the importance of future readiness, as we mark this anniversary, we must continue to look ahead to a future rooted in a high degree of excellence, he said, the world is evolving, and the future demands more creativity, adaptability, and global thinking.

He outlined a vision of transformation driven by investment in technology, global partnerships, and teacher development, we must ensure that KSS meets the evolving needs of education by investing in cutting-edge facilities, teacher development, digital literacy, and alumni engagement.

He also celebrated the holistic education offered by the school, from science labs to debate halls, this school teaches you how to find your voice in society. It develops talents which meet the needs in the society for which we are passionate and driven by conscience to meet.

The event also honoured the 50th anniversary of KOSA, an organization IGP Sellu praised for its unwavering support. KOSA has been, and remains, a key external motivator for our pupils, each year, and the return of distinguished alumni serves as a powerful reminder to our students of the heights they too can achieve.

He encouraged students to draw inspiration from these role models and to take their studies seriously, their presence here today should propel you to deepen your commitment to your studies. KOSA’s support complements the government’s efforts to build a brighter future for education in Sierra Leone.”

As the ceremony concluded, there was a sense of unity and renewed purpose. Alumni, teachers, and community leaders pledged their continued support, determined to ensure that Kenema Government Secondary School remains a beacon of excellence for generations to come.

On this day, in the heart of Kenema, education was not just celebrated it was reignited.

Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Friday, May 7th, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)