By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Prince of Wales School (POW), one of Sierra Leone’s most prestigious learning institutions, celebrated its 100th Anniversary past weekend with a series of remarkable events that highlighted its century-long commitment to academic excellence, discipline, and national service.
As part of the centenary celebrations, hundreds, if not thousands of past and present students, staff, and well-wishers, participated in an emotional walk down memory lane, retracing the historic journey from Model Junction to Kingtom – the current location of the school.
The Prince of Wales School, which first opened its doors at Model Junction- off Circular Road, has a rich history that spans over a century. Its relocation to Kingtom marked a new chapter in the school’s legacy, as a grand new “Kingdom” was constructed to provide a fitting home for the princes and princesses of the school. During the move, 25 students, who were attending the school at the time, symbolically carried their desks and chairs by hand and head from the old location to the new one – a gesture that cemented the school’s sense of unity and resilience.
This centenary celebration featured a symbolic walk that took place on the evening of April 5, 2025, as current and former students gathered along the streets of Freetown and made their way to the Kingtom campus. The walk, which was both a tribute to the school’s history and a demonstration of the enduring spirit of its students, was a moving spectacle. As participants retraced the footsteps of those early students, they paid homage to the sacrifices and dedication that helped build the school into the educational institution it is today. The event, fittingly dubbed “The Lions Are Out,” was a celebration of the school’s pride, tradition, and legacy.
The culmination of the weekend’s celebrations took place on Sunday, April 6, 2025, with dual Thanksgiving Services held at two separate venues, reflecting the school’s inclusive heritage. The Prince of Wales School has always been a melting pot of diverse backgrounds, and its centenary celebrations sought to honor this diversity by holding both Muslim and Christian prayer services simultaneously, ensuring that the school’s rich and inclusive history was well-represented.
At the Fullah Mosque- Magazine Cut, the Muslim community gathered for a special service led by Alhaji Mohamed Salaam, who delivered a powerful sermon. The service was a time for reflection, prayer, and gratitude for the blessings and opportunities the school has provided to generations of Sierra Leoneans.
Alhaji Salaam spoke passionately about the importance of education and the role that Prince of Wales School has played in shaping the nation’s future.
Meanwhile, at Kissy Road at the Church of Holy Trinity, a parallel Christian service took place, led by Bishop Arnold C. Temple JP. The service was a time of thanksgiving, as the school’s Christian community joined to celebrate the school’s century-long contribution to Sierra Leone’s development. Bishop Temple’s sermon focused on the values of excellence, discipline, and service, which have been integral to the school’s philosophy since its inception.
Both services were filled with students, alumni, staff, and friends of the school, all united in their gratitude for the school’s pivotal role in Sierra Leone’s educational landscape. The prayers and thanksgiving resonated deeply with those who have benefited from the Prince of Wales School’s nurturing environment and commitment to quality education.
In addition to the religious services, the celebration featured various other activities throughout the weekend, including cultural performances, speeches from notable alumni, and exhibitions showcasing the school’s history and achievements. Past pupils shared their personal stories, reflecting on how the school had shaped their lives and careers, and how it continues to impact the nation as a whole. Several prominent figures from Sierra Leone’s political, business, and educational sectors also paid tribute to the institution, underscoring the enduring significance of POW in the country’s history.
The Prince of Wales School’s 100th Anniversary marks not only the institution’s remarkable achievements but also the legacy of its commitment to producing well-rounded individuals who contribute to the development of Sierra Leone. Over the years, the school has produced a number of prominent figures in various fields, including politics, business, education, and the arts. Many alumni took to social media to express their pride in their alma mater, sharing fond memories of their time at the school, and thanking it for shaping them into the people they are today.
As the Prince of Wales School looks ahead to the next 100 years, its centenary celebrations serve as a reminder of the important role education plays in shaping the future of any nation.
The school’s dedication to academic excellence, discipline, and national service remains a guiding light for future generations, ensuring that it will continue to produce leaders who will go on to make lasting contributions to Sierra Leone and beyond.
