Honourary Citizens
Those We Honour
Meet remarkable citizens of Sɛkyerɛ
Meet the remarkable citizens of Sɛkyerɛ whose vision, dedication, and service have contributed to the town’s growth and development. These innovative thinkers, community leaders, and spirited individuals have shared their talents, knowledge, and resources to help build a stronger and more prosperous Sɛkyerɛ.
Rev. John Opoku Baaye
A Visionary and a Legacy of Purpose and Service
Rev. John Opoku, the son of Oheneba Kwadwo Opoku, affectionately known as Ampoote, and Madam Akosua Boatemaa (Maame Asempa), devoted his life to education, agricultural development, entrepreneurship, and community service.
Education and Professional Journey: Rev. Opoku was among the pioneering pupils of Sekyere L/A School before continuing his education at Prempeh College. He later studied Agriculture at the University of Cape Coast. After graduating, he taught in several Southern African countries, including Zambia, South Africa and Botswana. His commitment to professional development also led him to pursue further studies in Germany and to earn a Master of Business Administration degree in the United States.
Supporting Agriculture and Enterpreneurship:
Upon returning to Ghana, Rev. Opoku worked as a consultant, providing valuable guidance to entrepreneurs, farmers and agricultural organisations. He also assisted numerous agricultural entrepreneurs and farmers’ associations in preparing proposals for government grants, helping many of them secure financial support for their businesses and development projects. He also helped these groups articulate their perspectives and concerns regarding government agricultural policies, thereby giving practical support to people whose voices might otherwise have received little attention.
Establishing Sekyere Kusi Senior High Technical School
In 2014, Rev. Opoku, with the support of his wife, Rev. Edith Dela Opoku, established Sekyere Kusi Senior High Technical School. The school was founded with a clear mission: to provide quality secondary education while placing strong emphasis on technical, vocational and practical training.
Rev. Opoku envisioned an institution that would bridge the gap between classroom learning and hands-on technical training. His goal was to prepare students not only for higher education but also for direct entry into employment, entrepreneurship and skilled professions.
What began as a vision for Sekyere has, however, grown into something much greater. Sekyere Kusi Senior High Technical School has become a monument to Rev. Opoku’s vision, commitment and service to education. The school has extended its reach far beyond Sekyere and the Ashanti Region, attracting students from all regions of Ghana. Young people from different parts of the country now come to the school to pursue both academic education and technical and vocational training.
Rev. John Opoku’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements. It is reflected in his commitment to education, agriculture, entrepreneurship as well as inn the opportunities created for young people to learn and acquire practical skills.
Nana Anokye Boakye
Ɛkoɔna Hene
The late Nana Anokye Boakye was a respected son of Sekyere Kontonkyi whose life reflected determination, faith and a strong commitment to his community.
After completing his technical education, he built a successful career through hard work and perseverance. Although much of his working life was spent away from Sekyere, he remained deeply connected to his hometown and believed in giving back to the community that shaped him.
A Life of Faith and Service
Nana Anokye Boakye was a committed Christian and a member of The Church of Pentecost, Accra Newtown Branch. His faith was reflected in his dedication to serving others and supporting initiatives that contributed to the wellbeing of the people of Sekyere.
Among his notable contributions was his support for the construction of a Church of Pentecost building in Sekyere, providing the community with a permanent place of worship and fellowship.
Supporting Healthcare Development
Nana Anokye Boakye also played a role in efforts to improve healthcare in Sekyere. He supported the hosting of an American Peace Corps delegation whose engagement with the community contributed to efforts toward establishing the Sekyere Health Centre.
The development of the health centre represented an important step in improving access to basic healthcare for residents of Sekyere and surrounding communities.
Contributing to Community Development
His commitment to Sekyere extended beyond religious and healthcare initiatives. He also supported efforts to improve roads and other community infrastructure.
Through his resources, personal involvement and community connections, Nana Anokye Boakye contributed to projects intended to improve living conditions and promote the development of Sekyere Kontonkyi.
A Lasting Legacy
The late Nana Anokye Boakye will be remembered as a devoted Christian, community benefactor and proud son of Sekyere Kontonkyi.
His life represents a valuable example of community responsibility: achieving personal success while remaining committed to the progress and wellbeing of one’s hometown. His contributions to religious life, healthcare, and community development form an important part of the history and heritage of Sɛkyerɛ Kontonkyi.
Prof. Kwadwo Kessey
Educator, Poet, and Philanthropist
Professor Kessey: Engineer, Educator, Poet and Philanthropist
The late Professor Kessey was a distinguished mechanical engineer, educator, poet and philanthropist whose remarkable career touched the lives of students in Ghana and around the world. In addition to his contributions to engineering and education, he wrote poetry on a wide range of subjects for readers of all ages.
Education and Professional Journey
Professor Kessey completed his elementary education in 1945 and subsequently attended Wesley College in Kumasi, where he completed a four-year teacher-training programme. Driven by a passion for learning and professional excellence, he later pursued further studies at Columbia University in the United States, completing his programme in 1963.
Imparting Knowledge to Generations
Throughout his distinguished career, Professor Kessey taught at various levels of education, including elementary and secondary schools. After completing his studies at Columbia University, he taught mechanical engineering at universities in the United States, Canada, Nigeria and Ghana.
His dedication to teaching extended far beyond the classroom. He served as a mentor and source of inspiration to generations of students, helping to shape future leaders and professionals. He retired from active service in 1992 after many years of devoted teaching, scholarship and mentorship.
A Lasting National Influence
Among Professor Kessey’s former students were individuals who later became the Paramount Chiefs of the Mampong, Kokofu and Juaben Traditional Areas. His students also included former President of Ghana, His Excellency John Agyekum Kufuor, and former Senior Minister, Hon. Yaw Osafo-Maafo.
The accomplishments of his students reflect the far-reaching influence of his work as an educator and mentor. Through them, his contribution to Ghana’s traditional leadership, public service and national development continues to be felt.
A Family Man, Community Builder and Philanthropist
Professor Kessey was a devoted family man who was married and blessed with four children. He is fondly remembered for his commitment to the education of the children of Sɛkyerɛ, his generosity toward others and the development initiatives he introduced within the community.
His contributions helped create educational opportunities and advance the development of Sɛkyerɛ. His enduring legacy as an engineer, educator, scholar, poet, philanthropist, and family man continues to inspire all who knew him and benefited from his life’s work.