Ghanaian Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga Central, Isaac Adongo, has shared his inspiring story of overcoming adversity during his time at Zamse Senior High/Technical School (ZAMSTECH). He recalled entering the school as the last student on a supplementary admission list but graduating as the best student. This experience, he said, demonstrated that students could overcome academic and personal challenges through determination and hard work.
According to Adongo, ZAMSTECH was not a preferred choice for many students when he enrolled. The school struggled to attract students through the regular admission process and had to seek permission from the Ghana Education Service (GES) to conduct its own entrance examinations. This led to the introduction of "late entrance exams," which allowed the school to admit students who may not have met the initial requirements.
Adongo disclosed that he faced significant challenges when he first arrived at the school, including language barriers. He could not speak English or French, which were the only languages permitted on campus at the time. Despite these difficulties, he worked to improve his academic performance and eventually emerged as the school's best student.
The MP encouraged current students not to allow their backgrounds or academic difficulties to discourage them from pursuing their ambitions. He emphasized that his experience showed that what may seem like a limitation can be overcome with hard work and determination. Adongo's story serves as a testament to the power of resilience and perseverance.
Reflecting on the school's development over the past five decades, Adongo noted that ZAMSTECH had grown significantly. The institution had transformed from one that struggled to attract students into one that parents now actively consider for their children. Former students of the school are pursuing careers in various fields, including universities and aviation, in Ghana and abroad.
ZAMSTECH, established in 1976, recently celebrated its Golden Jubilee under the theme, "Celebrating 50 Years of Academic Excellence: Empowering Minds and Shaping the Future, The Role of Stakeholders." The anniversary brought together past and present students, school authorities, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to reflect on the institution's development and future.
Adongo expressed pride in his association with the school, saying he identifies himself first with ZAMSTECH before his position as Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga Central. The event also highlighted the school's achievements and its impact on the community. Key points from the story include:
Key points
- Adongo entered ZAMSTECH as the last student on the admission list but graduated as the best student.
- The school initially struggled to attract students and had to conduct its own entrance examinations.
- Adongo overcame significant challenges, including language barriers, to achieve academic success.