By Michael Okuley
Westham star Mohammed Kudus with Black Stars team doctor Dr. Prince Kofi Pambo, recently visited the St. Nicholas Charity Preparatory School in Tema Newtown.
Kudus, who was recently crowned Footballer of the Year at the Ghana Football Awards for the second consecutive time, chose the school for his first post-award engagement to deliver inspirational messages to the students about the importance of education and perseverance.
St. Nicholas Charity Preparatory School, founded in 2012 by the St. Nicholas Charity Foundation, serves the Bankuman area, a community where many parents are fisherfolk and lack the means to support their children’s education. The school provides free education, uniforms, school supplies, and two meals a day to its 208 students, from Crèche to junior high school.
Mohammed Kudus, who also comes from a deprived community, shared his personal journey with the students, encouraging them to take their education seriously and dream big.
“I understand the challenges you face because I faced them too. Education is your key to a better future. Stay focused and work hard, and you can achieve anything,” The “Starboy” told the students.
The visit, arranged by Dr. Prince Kofi Pambo, included various activities such as basketball and football exhibitions. Kudus interacted with the children and delivered a short speech that resonated deeply with both students and staff.
“Coming from a similar background, I know how important it is for these children to see that their dreams are achievable. Mohammed’s visit is a beacon of hope for them,” Dr. Pambo added.
Ivan Quashigah, a renowned Ghanaian filmmaker and the founder and CEO of Farmhouse Productions, serves as a trustee of St. Nicholas Charity Preparatory School also expressed his gratitude for Kudus’ visit.
“Having someone of Kudus’ stature take the time to visit and inspire our students is incredibly special. It shows them that they are not forgotten and that their dreams are valid,” Quashigah said.
Since its inception, St. Nicholas has maintained a 100 percent pass rate in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), with graduates continuing their education at Keta Secondary School through the free Senior High School (SHS) programme.
Mr. Quashigah emphasised the importance of community support in the school’s success. “Our mission is to provide these children with the education they deserve, regardless of their financial background. We rely on the benevolence of individuals and organizations to keep the school running, and we are grateful for every bit of support,” he said.
The school not only focuses on academic excellence but also on the holistic development of the children, incorporating sports and extracurricular activities into their curriculum. This approach ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, equipping them with essential life skills.
“As the children of St. Nicholas Charity Preparatory School continue their educational journey, they do so with the knowledge that they have the support and encouragement of role models like Mohammed Kudus and the trustees who are dedicated to their success.
The visit by Kudus not only inspired the students but also brought attention to the incredible work being done at St. Nicholas, highlighting the importance of supporting such initiatives,” Mr. Quashigah added.
