The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, John Dumelo, has joined the celebration of the 80th anniversary of Holy Child School, Cape Coast, describing the occasion as both spectacular and deeply personal.

Sharing reflections after attending the anniversary event, Dumelo revealed that his family has longstanding ties to the prestigious girls’ school, with several relatives having served in leadership roles during their time as students.

According to him, his mother served as school prefect in the early 1970s, while his aunt, Patricia, also held the same position in the mid-1970s. His elder sister, Caro, later followed the tradition by serving as school prefect in 1996.

Dumelo added that other members of his family also held leadership roles at the school, including his aunt Helena who served as a dining hall prefect. His cousin Catherine also held the same position, while his sister Annette served as a club prefect.

Reflecting on the family’s strong connection to the institution, the MP humorously remarked that he was largely raised by “Hopsans,” the nickname for students and alumnae of Holy Child School, while being guided by his father who attended Achimota School.

“I can confidently say I was brought up by Hopsans but managed by a Motowner — my dad,” he said.

The 80th anniversary celebration brought together students, alumnae, and dignitaries to honour the legacy of the institution, which has played a significant role in educating and empowering generations of Ghanaian women.

Among the distinguished guests at the event were the Vice President of the Republic, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana (UG), Prof Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, who once attended the school.

Founded in 1946, Holy Child School, Cape Coast is one of Ghana’s well-known girls’ senior high schools and has produced many prominent women leaders across various sectors.