Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, has pledged to sponsor a Visual Arts student of Pope John Senior High and Minor Seminary to study architecture at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
The decision to support the brilliant but needy student came after the student sketched and presented a portrait of the minister in appreciation of his contributions towards the development of the school.
Touched by the student’s talent and humble background, Dr. Omane Boamah announced his commitment to fully sponsor his tertiary education.
“And to Thomas Gyebi and his family and the instructors at the Visual Arts department, this work of art reminds me of our arts teacher Kioto (Mr. Nutsugah). I asked Thomas what he wants to pursue, and he said he wants to be an architect and mentioned KNUST. I don’t like singing too much out there, but I say count me in — and count me in hundred percent,” he said.
Following the announcement, the student, Thomas Gyebi, and his mother — who were present at the 67th Anniversary celebration and Speech and Prize-Giving Day — ran to hug the minister in appreciation.
After the presentation, the headmaster of the school, Rev. Fr. Benjamin Opoku Ohene, on behalf of the school and alumni, expressed their gratitude to the minister for his generous pledge.
“Hon. Dr. Omane Boamah, I am standing as the head of the school and on behalf of the past students to show our appreciation to you for the enormous things you have done for the school, including the asphaltic overlay construction, and now your pledge to sponsor our student to pursue his dream of becoming an architect — we say ayekoo,” he stated.
Dr. Omane Boamah returned as the guest speaker for the 67th Anniversary celebration and Speech and Prize-Giving Day of his alma mater, 36 years after completing his sixth form education.
He was joined by past students and other dignitaries to grace the occasion.