By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The President of the Old Bo Boys Association (OBBA), 2439 Ing. Hadji Dabo, has officially outlined a comprehensive programme of activities to mark the 120th anniversary of Bo School and the 97th anniversary of OBBA, describing the upcoming celebrations as a historic milestone that goes beyond commemoration to reflect both legacy and future ambition. Speaking at a Press Briefing held, on the 25th March, 2026, at the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) Hall, Off Kingharman Road in Freetown, he emphasized that plans are well underway for what is expected to be one of the most significant educational celebrations in Sierra Leone’s recent history, designed not only to honour the institution’s long-standing legacy but also to set a clear vision for its future.
Addressing members of the media, alumni and invited guests, Ing. Hadji Dabo stressed that while OBBA’s anniversary remains important, the 2026 celebrations are deliberately centred on Bo School itself, particularly its current pupils who represent the continuation of the school’s enduring values of discipline, integrity, service and leadership. He described the institution, established in 1906, as a cornerstone of leadership development in Sierra Leone, noting that its influence extends far beyond its physical structures. According to him, Bo School embodies an enduring vision that has shaped generations of leaders across governance, the judiciary, the military, business and civil society.
He further highlighted that OBBA, founded in 1929, has remained instrumental in preserving that legacy through sustained initiatives in mentorship, infrastructural development and national contribution. Those efforts, he noted, continue to strengthen the institution’s relevance in modern times, ensuring that its values are not only preserved but actively practiced in addressing contemporary national challenges .
Providing details of the anniversary programme, the OBBA President announced that this year’s celebration will span five days instead of the traditional three, reflecting an expanded and more inclusive schedule of activities. Events will commence on Thursday, April 2, 2026, with the commissioning of major infrastructure projects, including a new entrance gate and a state-of-the-art amphitheatre. This will be followed by a Durbar of Paramount Chiefs, expected to bring together over 40 traditional leaders from across the country, alongside a cultural showcase celebrating Sierra Leone’s rich heritage.
On Good Friday, April 3, the celebrations will feature a Speech Day and Prize-Giving Ceremony, described as a central highlight of the anniversary, focusing on recognizing academic excellence, character and achievement among students. The day will conclude with an alumni reunion night aimed at strengthening bonds among old students and fostering renewed commitment to the school.
Activities will continue on Saturday, April 4, with the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and a series of sporting engagements, which Ing. Hadji Dabo described as strategic mentorship platforms where professionals from various sectors will interact with students, offering guidance on leadership, career development and national service. The celebrations will climax on Sunday, April 5, with a Thanksgiving Service in honour of the founders, teachers, parents and alumni who have contributed to the school’s success, followed by a ceremonial parade and a carnival event featuring prominent national artists.
OBBA Secretary General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, explained that the anniversary also marks the rollout of a comprehensive strategic plan developed over the past year, focusing on infrastructure improvement, academic advancement, stakeholder unity and institutional strengthening. He noted that specialized committees, including a constitutional review team and an academic advisory body, have been established to position both OBBA and the school to effectively respond to evolving educational and societal demands. He emphasized that the anniversary is not merely celebratory but represents a deliberate effort to secure the future of the institution and ensure meaningful impact on students and the wider community.
At the institutional level, Principal Hassan Kainesie, reaffirmed his commitment to restoring Bo School’s status as a leading centre of academic excellence. He outlined ongoing initiatives aimed at improving teaching quality, reinforcing discipline, integrating technology into the learning environment and strengthening parental engagement, all geared toward enhancing student outcomes and institutional performance.
Highlighting the school’s historical significance, Ing. Hadji Dabo recalled its original mission of educating the sons of Paramount Chiefs and fostering unity across Sierra Leone. He noted that such legacy of national cohesion remains relevant today, as the anniversary is expected to bring together traditional leaders, alumni and stakeholders from across the country, reinforcing the school’s enduring role in promoting unity across regional and cultural lines .
He further stressed the importance of unity and tradition, announcing that all attendees, including alumni and current students, are expected to wear full school attire in official colours throughout the celebrations, describing it as a symbol of equality, identity and shared heritage within the Bo School community.
Describing Bo School as a national asset, the OBBA President emphasized that investing in the institution is equivalent to investing in Sierra Leone’s future, given the far-reaching contributions of its alumni across critical sectors. He called on the media to go beyond routine reporting and help tell the broader story of Bo School’s impact over the past 120 years, highlighting its role in shaping leadership and advancing national development.
Concluding his address, Ing. Hadji Dabo urged all Old Bo Boys, stakeholders and the general public to fully participate in the celebrations, underscoring that the anniversary should be seen as a significant national moment—one that reflects the transformative power of education and renews commitment to the principles that continue to define Bo School. He reiterated that the occasion is not only about celebrating history but also about inspiring future generations and strengthening the values captured in the school’s enduring motto, “Manners Maketh Man.”
