Headmasters of OWASS
Rev. Father Burges (1952–1961)
In March 1961, Father Burgess was given his marching orders from Ghana, having preposterously been accused of interfering in the nation's politics. In reality, he had refused to admit the son of a government minister who had not made the required grade. His principled stand cost him his job and parted him from his dear school, but his values continue to inspire.
Leo Kalinauckas (1961–1963)
An Englishman of Lithuanian heritage, who ran the school between 1961 and 1963.
Kwame Adu-Amankwaah (1963–1969)
In 1963, the school had its first Ghanaian headmaster in the person of the late Mr. Kwame Adu-Amankwaah, who was headmaster until 1969, when he left to join the new government of Dr. K. A. Busia as the Eastern Regional Minister, and subsequently Ghana’s Ambassador to Mexico. During his time, the school's academic performance improved remarkably, and St. Peter House and the Gambrah Library were both constructed in 1966. He had a reputation as very strict disciplinarian and dedicated Catholic.
Stephen Oduro' (1971–1978)
During his time, OWASS saw another wave of expansion, with a new dining hall, the Soweto classroom block, new staff bungalows and another dormitory, St. Andrew House. A new assembly hall and a new headmaster's bungalow were also commenced.
Peter Owusu-Donko (1978–1987)
He steered the school through the difficult mid-1980s, which saw unprecedented bush fires, drought, fuel shortages and food crisis in the country A strong disciplinarian, he managed to guide the school during these stormy waters with great help from the Catholic Church.
James Dapaah Berko (1987–2003)
As the first alumnus headmaster of the school, Mr. Berko went on to hold the post for a record sixteen years. During his time, the school saw many reforms and academic performance improved remarkably. Other successes chalked included winning the National Brilliant Science and Maths Quiz on two occasions (1997 and 2002) as well as several regional sporting championships. It was during his tenure that the old students initiated the construction of an ultra-modern ICT centre for the school.
Stephen Anokye (2003–2011)
Again, the school continued to grow from strength, winning several academic and sporting laurels. Staff morale was high. During his time, a new house (St. Philip) and new library project were commenced and completed. The PTA also commenced a major classroom block project. A new assembly hall was also commenced under Mr. Anokye’s tenure.
F. Matthew Oppong Mensah (2011 – present)
Determined to follow in the footsteps of his illustrious predecessors. A tenth dormitory is currently under construction.
(**Rev. Fr. Habits and Mr. T. Bediakoh served as Acting Headmasters for short periods)
Read more about this topic: Opoku Ware School