By George M.O. Williams
Old Boys Association of the Methodist Boys High School (MBHS) on Friday, September 6, 2024, officially dedicated and unveiled a new two-storey building housing 18 classrooms. This milestone will enable the school to transition to a single-shift system to improve learning outcomes.
The dedication ceremony, which was held at the school’s grounds in Kissy, was attended by students, various alumni chapters, and representatives from other school alumni associations. The new structure also includes a principal’s office, a staff room, and a library.
Construction of the 18 classrooms began two years ago as part of the school’s 150th Anniversary Celebration, launched in 2022. The anniversary committee, with support from the school’s alumni, spearheaded fundraising efforts for the project, leading to its successful completion.
During the ceremony, prayers were offered, plaques unveiled, and key individuals who contributed to the project were recognized. The school’s brass band provided musical performances, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
In his keynote address, Minister of Tertiary Education Conrad Sacky praised the Old Boys Association’s vision, calling the new classroom block a symbol of optimism for the future. He emphasized that the move to a single shift system would improve educational outcomes and hailed the alumni’s commitment to enhancing education.
“The new classrooms represent a significant milestone, and the single shift system will foster a better learning environment for students,” said Sacky.
Matthew Dingie, President of the MBHS Old Boys Association, highlighted the broader rebranding efforts for the school. He explained that after visiting the school in 2019 and witnessing its deteriorating infrastructure, the association initiated plans to construct new classrooms with financial backing from diaspora chapters.
Dingie also noted that the association has provided the school’s brass band with new instruments, raised NLe 600,000 to support the administration, and has plans to purchase buses, upgrade recreational facilities, improve the school hall, and provide incentives for teachers.
The principal of MBHS Senior Secondary School, Moses Conteh, expressed the administration’s excitement over the project’s completion. He acknowledged the dedication of the alumni and stressed that this achievement raises expectations for students, teachers, and parents alike.
Sorie Turay, Secretary General of the Teaching Service Commission, also expressed his delight, noting that the improved learning environment would enhance teachers’ ability to deliver quality education.
The new classroom block is seen as a pivotal step towards advancing education at MBHS and ensuring a brighter future for its students.