By Mackie M. Jalloh
Albert Academy, a prestigious educational institution established by American missionaries on October 4, 1904, will commemorate its 120th anniversary with a series of events from September 4 to October 4, 2024. The celebration, announced by Albert Massaquoi, Chairman of the 120th Anniversary Committee, will span a month and include a variety of activities designed to honour the school’s long-standing legacy of academic excellence.
Massaquoi expressed his enthusiasm for leading the anniversary committee during this significant milestone. “Being part of this celebration is a tremendous honour,” he said, reflecting on the school’s rich history and impact on education in Sierra Leone, West Africa, and beyond. He urged alumni to engage actively in the festivities, which will feature a range of commemorative items including T-shirts, coat badges, anniversary blazers, and Africana attire available for pre-order or purchase.
The month-long festivities commenced with an inter-class football competition held at Kingtom Playing Field, bringing together alumni from various graduating classes. “This football event is a fantastic way to kick off our celebrations and reconnect with old friends,” Massaquoi noted.
The official anniversary celebrations will begin on September 29, 2024, with a special Albert Academy Family Africana Service at King Memorial Methodist Church on Goderich Street, Freetown. Attendees are encouraged to wear the Albert Academy ‘Ashobi,’ available for purchase in advance. The service, conducted in Krio, will be followed by a procession from the church to the school grounds, culminating in a bonfire and a class reunion.
The football competition’s grand finale is scheduled for September 21, 2024. Prior to the final match, there will be a sponsored walk aimed at raising awareness for the anniversary and promoting health. Alumni groups from East End (Up Gun) and West End (Aberdeen Road) will gather at St. John and continue to the SLFA Academy at Kingtom for the concluding match.
Another highlight of the celebration will be the “Back to School” event on October 1, 2024, allowing alumni to relive their school days with a full day of class activities, beginning with assembly and concluding with the end of the school day.
On the eve of Founders’ Day, October 4, an alumni jamboree will take place at the UMC Lodge on Kingharman Road, Freetown. The event will feature a freestyle carnival where participants are encouraged to dress in 1960s fashion incorporating Albert Academy colours, with prizes awarded to the best-dressed attendees.
Massaquoi concluded by emphasizing that the planned events aim to celebrate Albert Academy’s storied legacy and foster unity among its global alumni community. “These activities are designed to honour our history and bring together the Albert Academy family in a meaningful and enjoyable way,” he said.
