The Chief Executive Officer of the Bleoo Legacy Fundraising Initiative (BLFI), Emmanuel Bruce-Attah, has said the late Nana Akuoko Sarpong, the former Omanhene of the Agogo Traditional Area, was a pillar of strength for Accra Academy for several decades and not just a patron.
He said Nana Akuoko Sarpong’s contributions to the school would remain unforgettable and cited his role in supporting students during the 1983 bushfires when he organised food supplies from Agogo to Accra Academy.
Mr Bruce-Attah made the remark on behalf of BLFI when a delegation paid a visit to the family of its late patron last Tuesday to commiserate with them.
The five-member delegation was led by the Board Chairman, Richard Okrah and Mr Bruce-Attah.
Legacy
Mr Bruce-Attah said Nana Akuoko Sarpong chaired the Accra Academy Board from 2007 to 2013 and also highlighted his financial support for several school projects over the years.
He said during the Omanhene’s tenure, he helped secure a new dormitory block through the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), which was later named Nana Akuoko Sarpong Hall (NASH) in his honour.
He said Nana Akuoko Sarpong also championed the publication of the school’s first history book in 90 years in 2022.
He said the book, Accra Aca Bleoo, was launched in 2023 and has since been stocked in leading global libraries and universities.
He added that the initiative continues to inspire alumni to contribute meaningfully to the development of the school.
For his part, Mr Okrah said Nana Akuoko Sarpong served Accra Academy with humility and distinction, even after attaining high public office.
Mr Okrah added that the board was deeply saddened by his passing and signed the book of condolence on behalf of the trustees and management board.
Family
The first daughter of the late Nana Akuoko Sarpong, Akosua Fosuhemaa Sarpong, described her father as a man with deep affection for Accra Academy.
She said his attachment to the school reflected a period in his life that shaped his independence and character.
Ms Sarpong said the family was open to partnering with BLFI to establish an endowment fund in his honour.
She said the initiative would help support needy students and preserve his legacy.
About BLFI
The Bleoo Legacy Fundraising Initiative is a registered not-for-profit organisation set up to create a sustainable funding base for Accra Academy.
The initiative mobilises one-time contributions from members and invests them in long-term bonds.
Proceeds are used to support development projects in the school.
The initiative has so far raised GH¢100,000 and donated GH¢12,000 towards school projects.