By Daniel Bampoe
The Member of Parliament for Akuapem North Constituency in the Eastern Region, Sammi Awuku, has announced the establishment of the Sammi Awuku Change Makers Award to recognize outstanding leadership and environmental responsibility among students and teachers of St. Augustine’s College during the school’s 96th Anniversary and Speech and Prize-Giving Day celebrations.
Delivering his acceptance speech as Chairman of the anniversary celebration, Sammi Awuku expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to return to the institution that played a significant role in shaping his character and leadership journey.
Addressing a distinguished audience that included Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the Most Reverend Charles Gabriel Palmer-Buckle, Chairman of the Board of Governors, members of the governing board, executives of the old students’ association, staff, parents, students, and other dignitaries, the Akuapem North legislator described the occasion as a moment of pride and reflection.
Sammi Awuku noted that returning to the Cape Coast-based institution where he once studied reminded him of the enduring legacy of St. Augustine’s College in nurturing leadership, discipline, and service among generations of young men.
He emphasized that the influence of the school extends beyond its campus, pointing out that many of its alumni—popularly known as Augusco Boys—have gone on to make significant contributions to national development in various fields.
Tracing the history and reputation of the institution, the MP stated that St. Augustine’s College has for decades maintained a tradition of academic excellence and character formation.
According to him, the college has consistently served as a training ground where young minds are sharpened, leadership qualities are nurtured and students are prepared to serve society with integrity and responsibility.
Central to this legacy, he explained, is the school’s motto “Omnia Vincit Labor”—translated as Perseverance Conquers All. Sammi Awuku stressed that the motto has guided generations of students and teachers, reminding them that true achievement comes not from convenience but from hard work, resilience, and determination in the face of challenges.
While celebrating the institution’s achievements over the past 96 years, Sammi Awuku also reflected on the evolving challenges confronting the younger generation.
He noted that today’s students are preparing to inherit a world marked by complex global issues, including environmental degradation and the growing need for sustainable development.
According to him, responsible environmental stewardship and sustainable development must become a central part of decision-making for individuals and communities if societies are to safeguard their future.
He emphasized that the well-being of communities, the health of the environment, and the prosperity of nations are closely interconnected.
It was against this backdrop that Awuku announced the creation of the Sammi Awuku Change Makers Award, an initiative spearheaded by the APSU 2G1 Year Group.
The award, he explained, is designed to recognize students and teachers who demonstrate exceptional leadership, commitment to sustainability, public service, and the courage to champion positive change within the school and their wider communities.
Under the initiative, one student and one teacher will be selected annually over the next six years as recipients of the award. Each winner will receive a cash prize of GH¢5,000 in recognition of their dedication to integrity, initiative, and service.
Sammi Awuku indicated that the award seeks to encourage young people and educators to actively contribute to their communities, promote environmental protection, and embrace values that support sustainable and responsible development.
He stressed that leadership should not only be defined by positions of authority but also by the impact individuals make in improving the lives of others.
The MP also used the platform to encourage students of St. Augustine’s College to take full advantage of the opportunities available to them during their time in school. He urged them to approach their education with curiosity, determination, and a strong sense of responsibility, adding that their years in school should not only be about academic success but also about developing the values and character that will guide their future.
He further commended the teachers and staff of the college for their dedication to mentoring and guiding students, noting that their commitment plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of leaders.
Sammi Awuku also acknowledged the presence of Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang and other distinguished guests, describing their participation as a demonstration of the importance of investing in the development of young people who will one day lead the country.
The 96th anniversary celebration and Speech and Prize-Giving Day brought together alumni, students, staff, and dignitaries to celebrate the achievements of the school and honor outstanding students who excelled in academics, leadership, and extracurricular activities.
