Story by: Mohammed Faisel Mustapha/Felix Ernest Odamtten….
The Global President of Ɔdadeɛ, the Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC) Old Boys’ Association, Dr Ernest Ofori Sarpong, has rekindled the spirit of brotherhood, unity and institutional loyalty among members of the fraternity after lighting the symbolic bonfire during the school’s 2026 celebrations.
The ceremony, which brought together members of the PRESEC fraternity, was one of the defining moments of the celebrations, transforming a longstanding school tradition into a powerful expression of shared identity, enduring friendship and collective commitment to the institution.
Dr Ofori Sarpong, who also serves as Chairman of the PRESEC Governing Council, Chief Executive Officer of Special Group of Companies and the first Chancellor of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), performed the symbolic lighting as part of activities celebrating the heritage and achievements of the prestigious institution.
As the flames rose into the night, the occasion assumed a significance beyond the spectacle of a traditional bonfire. It became a reminder of the values that have sustained the Ɔdadeɛ fraternity over generations: brotherhood, discipline, loyalty, excellence, friendship and an unwavering commitment to service.
For Dr Ofori Sarpong, the ceremony represented an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of keeping the PRESEC spirit alive while strengthening the relationships that unite old boys across different generations, professional backgrounds and social standing.
The bonfire symbolised a common identity that transcends individual achievements and personal differences. It reinforced the conviction that regardless of when members attended the school or where life has taken them, they remain connected by a shared educational heritage and an enduring sense of belonging.
“The strength of Ɔdadeɛ is not measured by the individual achievements of its members alone, but by our willingness to stand together, support one another and contribute meaningfully to the institution that helped shape us,” is a fitting expression of the collective responsibility symbolised by the ceremony.
The occasion also highlighted the importance of leadership in preserving institutional heritage. Dr Ofori Sarpong’s participation, in his capacity as Global President, demonstrated the significance of leadership that recognises the past, mobilises the present and prepares the next generation to sustain the association’s ideals.
Beyond its symbolic meaning, the bonfire served as a representation of hope, renewal and fresh beginnings. Its illuminating flames reflected the aspirations of a fraternity determined to build stronger relationships, expand opportunities for collaboration and contribute more meaningfully to the development of PRESEC.
For many old boys, the gathering offered an opportunity to reconnect with former schoolmates, revive cherished memories and celebrate the experiences that continue to shape their personal and professional journeys. It also reinforced the importance of translating the bonds of school friendship into practical support for one another and the wider community.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that the legacy we inherited is not only protected but strengthened and handed over to generations yet unborn,” captures the enduring message of continuity and intergenerational responsibility associated with the celebration.
The ceremony further underscored the need for collective participation in advancing the objectives of the Ɔdadeɛ fraternity. Building a stronger association, supporting the school’s development and sustaining its traditions cannot be the responsibility of its president and executives alone, but must remain a shared commitment among all members.
As a distinguished PRESEC alumnus whose leadership extends across business, education, philanthropy and institutional development, Dr Ofori Sarpong’s role in the ceremony also brought into focus the importance of giving back to institutions that contribute to shaping future leaders. His involvement reaffirmed the place of alumni leadership in promoting educational excellence and preserving the values of the school.
Ultimately, the 2026 bonfire ceremony was more than an item on the school’s celebrations calendar. It was a powerful declaration of fraternity, continuity and shared purpose, reminding members that the true strength of Ɔdadeɛ lies not merely in its history or the achievements of its distinguished alumni, but in the unity, commitment and collective responsibility of its members.
As the flames illuminated the gathering, the message was unmistakable: the Ɔdadeɛ spirit must continue to burn brightly, inspiring generations of PRESEC old boys to remain united, uphold the institution’s proud heritage and work together towards a stronger and more enduring legacy.
