Author: Peter Martey Agbeko || APR
St. Augustine’s College (Augusco), Cape Coast, celebrated a historic milestone on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, with the investiture of Rev. Fr. Patrick Appiah, PhD, as the institution’s 17th headmaster.
This colourful and dignified ceremony reaffirmed the college’s commitment to its legacy of excellence in Catholic education and holistic student development.
Fr. Patrick Appiah, an accomplished educator and administrator, brings to the role a wealth of experience. He previously served as Assistant Headmaster of St. Augustine’s College and Holy Child Senior High School, both in Cape Coast. Most recently, he distinguished himself as the Headmaster of St. Gregory Senior High School in Buduburam, Central Region, earning a reputation as a visionary leader and exemplary steward.
The induction ceremony drew a diverse gathering of dignitaries, including the Metropolitan Archbishop of Cape Coast and College Patron, Most Rev. Charles Gabriel Palmer-Buckle; Archbishop Emeritus Matthias Kobena Nketsiah; clergy; representatives from educational institutions; and prominent alumni.
Also in attendance were the President of the St. Augustine’s Past Students Union (APSU), Dr. Ernest Anthony Osei; other APSU executives; teaching and non-teaching staff; students; and members of the broader Augusco community.
In his acceptance speech, Fr. Appiah expressed profound gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to dedicate himself to advancing the college’s mission. He emphasised the critical role of teamwork, discipline, and innovation in nurturing well-rounded students prepared to excel in a dynamic world. “Together, we will uphold and build upon the proud traditions of St. Augustine’s College,” he stated.
Fr. Appiah’s appointment comes at a pivotal time in the history of the institution. The college, founded in 1930, is actively preparing for its centenary in 2030, even as APSU celebrates its 90th anniversary. The college’s motto, Omnia Vincit Labor (“Perseverance Conquers All”), continues to inspire generations of students and alumni who contribute meaningfully to society.
The program for the day included a sequence of solemn prayers, hymns, musical interludes, and speeches that highlighted the unity and pride of the Augusco community. The agenda featured statements from representatives of students, teaching staff, non-teaching staff, the Parents’ Association, the Regional Director of Education, and APSU.
Key Attendees and Guests
The event brought together an impressive array of personalities, including:
- Most Rev. Charles Gabriel Palmer-Buckle – Metropolitan Archbishop of Cape Coast and College Patron
- Archbishop Emeritus Matthias Kobena Nketsiah – Archdiocese of Cape Coast
- Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Anthony Adawu – Chairman of the College Board of Governors
- Dr. Ernest Anthony Osei – APSU President Worldwide
- Mr. Eric Atta-Sonno, Mr. Robert Oracca-Tetteh, Mr. Bernard Yaw Atta-Sonno – APSU National Executives
- Mr. Emmanuel Essuman – Regional Director of Education
- Madam Dina Quao – Regional Manager of Catholic Education Unit
- Former headmasters: Mr. Francis Gabriel Amissah, Mr. Joseph Connel, Mr. Henry Arthur-Gyan, and others
- Heads of notable institutions, including Mfantsipim School, Adisadel College, Holy Child School, and Wesley Girls’ High School
Programme Highlights
The ceremony unfolded with precision and reverence, starting with an opening prayer by the College Chaplain and the singing of the College Anthem. Key moments included:
- Investiture of the New Headmaster by the College Patron
- Speeches from representatives of various stakeholder groups, including APSU and the Parents’ Association
- Gifts were presented by various stakeholders to the the new headmaster
- The Western Region branch of APSU presented plaques bearing the Association’s emblem to the new headmaster and the former headmasters.
- The youngest sister of Fr. Patrick delivered a brief congratulatory message and extended best wishes on behalf of their family. Fr. Patrick’s mother was also in attendance at the event.
- A deliciously crafted cake featuring the emblem of APSU was proudly displayed.
- A response by Rev. Fr. Patrick Appiah, outlining his vision for the future
- An address by the College Patron, Most Rev. Charles Gabriel Palmer-Buckle, emphasising the institution’s enduring mission
- A heartfelt vote of thanks by the Senior Prefect
The ceremony concluded with a benediction by the College Patron and a recessional march, leaving attendees inspired and optimistic about the future of St. Augustine’s College under the capable leadership of Fr. Appiah.
As the college moves forward, the appointment of Fr. Patrick Appiah is widely regarded as a testament to its resilience, dedication to academic excellence, and commitment to nurturing future leaders.
