How a rural school founded by a Catholic Priest is taking on elite competitors in Ghana

Established in 2018, the St. Joseph School in Maame Krobo in the Apostolic Vicariate of Donkorkrom emerged from a parish initiative led by Rev. Fr. Stephen Kofi Sakpaku – A Ghanaian Priest of the Archdiocese of Accra missioned to the Vicariate of Donkorkrom for 11 years.

Aimed at providing quality education grounded in Catholic values, what started as a dream has now become a thriving institution, competing with some of the elite schools in the region.

The story began on November 17, 2017, when Rev. Fr. Sakpaku convened a meeting with community elders to discuss the establishment of a model Catholic school. This led to the formation of an Education Committee tasked with laying the groundwork for St. Joseph School.

With strong community support, the school opened its doors on September 24, 2018, in a modest chapel building, welcoming 24 eager students.

St. Joseph School aims to provide a holistic education, focusing on moral, ethical, and spiritual development. With a motto of “Honestas, Humilitate et Labore” (Honesty, Humility, and Hard Work), the school fosters a culture of respect and diligence among its 265 students and dedicated staff.

Over the years, it has gained recognition for its academic achievements and character development, attracting attention from families who value quality education.

Despite its success, St. Joseph School faces significant challenges. Currently, it operates with only four classrooms, and as the school prepares to advance to class six next academic year, the urgent need for additional space is evident. Many families in the area struggle with poverty, making it difficult for them to pay school fees and participate fully in school activities.

These challenges have not deterred the school’s spirit. Under the leadership of Fr. Saviour Seddo Darkey, the current administrator, efforts are underway to expand facilities and introduce a Junior High School and a Technical School.

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