GIS Chalks 70 Years - Celebrating Seven Decades Of Educational Excellence And International Leadership

The Ghana International School (GIS) is celebrating its 70th anniversary in the first week of September 2025, reveling seven decades of educational excellence and international leadership in Ghana.

GIS is a Not-for-profit, private, non-sectarian, co-educational day and boarding school located at Cantonment in Accra, Ghana.

Briefing the media on preparations and plans ahead of the platinum celebrations on Monday, Dr. Mary Ashun, CEO of the school disclosed that GIS was established in September 1955, before Ghana's independence, and they have evolved from a pioneering institution into Africa's premier international school, achieving groundbreaking accreditations and sending graduates to world-class universities, including Harvard, MIT, Princeton, Stanford, Yale, Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, LSE, Durham, University of Warwick, African Leadership Academy, University of Toronto, York University, University of Ghana and Ashesi University

She said Ghana International School's 70th anniversary represents more than institutional longevity - it's a story of African educational ambition, international excellence, and the power of visionary thinking.

“In an era of global education challenges, GIS demonstrates how African institutions can achieve world-class standards while maintaining cultural identity and local relevance. This milestone presents media outlets with a compelling narrative that combines historical significance, current achievements, and future promise - ideal for e.g. for Forbes' education coverage, the BBC's international development focus, and other major media platforms seeking inspiring African success stories” she stated.

According to Dr. Ashun, the school has achieved historic first with the Pre-Independence Vision of being founded in 1955, when Ghana was still under colonial rule, demonstrating remarkable foresight in international education.

She noted that GIS is one of Africa's earliest international schools, established "to provide international education to students of all races and creeds."

She added that GIS has pioneered multiracial, non-sectarian education at a time when this was revolutionary and unprecedented academic achievement in 100% University Acceptance Rate – as every graduate who applies gains admission to higher education institutions such as World-Class University Placements: Graduates accepted to Harvard, MIT, Princeton, Stanford, Yale, Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, LSE, Durham, University of Warwick, University of Toronto, York University, and Ashesi University

According to Dr. Ashun, GIS attained the first and only Double Accreditation in Ghana, with historic achievement as the first and only international school in Ghana to be accredited by both the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

The school officially received accreditation status in December 2007, making it the first school in Ghana to be certified by the Council of International Schools.

She said GIS is a member of prestigious international networks: AISA and ECIS guided by Educational Innovation and Leadership.

They operate the Comprehensive Cambridge International Curriculum from early years through A-levels; the IGCSE and Advanced Level programs with English as the medium of instruction, Pearson BTEC Pathway in Music and Creative Media for students 14+.

Dr. Mary Ashun revealed GIS has a balanced approach incorporating local content with international standards, structured in four departments (Infant, Junior, Lower Secondary, Upper Secondary), while the curriculum is Cambridge International with 20+ academic subjects Age Range: Ages 3-18.

She said the student body makes up a diverse international community from 30+ nationalities.

Some compelling statistics and facts she unfolded were 70 Years of continuous operation (1955-2025), 100% University Acceptance rate, Dual International Accreditation - only school in Ghana with both CIS and NEASC, Multi-generational Impact: Alumni returning as accomplished professionals, Cultural Diversity: Students from many countries and cultural backgrounds and Academic Excellence: Consistent high performance in international examinations.

Achievements chalked include the visit of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) President’s visit Ghana, impressed by the fundraiser that GIS Students - Kwabena and Ekow Enti organized to provide football boots to needy children.

• Royal Recognition: Queen Consort Camilla launched the Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition for the first time outside Buckingham Palace at GIS in November 2018
• Distinguished Visitors: Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka spent days engaging with students, and esteemed African writer and activist Dr. Auma Obama held sessions with students
• For the Upcoming 70th Anniversary Celebrations: there would be Coffee table book documenting the school history and a short film to be premiered at the Silverbird Theatre on September 2 September 2025.

The CEO noted that it must be worthy and essential to know the Pioneer Story: "From colonial-era vision to modern excellence - 70 years of breaking barriers"

She announced that on Monday 1^st September, a special anniversary cake would be cut, alongside launching of the Coffee Table Book and unveiling of the anniversary cloth.

“Wednesday and Thursday, September 3 and 4 would be for students social services including clean up exercises, while on Friday September 6, during an assembly the anniversary polo would be outdoored, then on Saturday 7,  a sports / entertainment event is going to take center stage” she highlighted.

Dr. Mary Ashun concluded that in the current crowded world, GIS must tell their own story, with accurate facts to the world, and Ghanaians must be proud of their international school.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Bishop Boxing Promotions led by Dave Bishop has received tons of congratulations and encouragement after their debut show at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Saturday August 23.

The exciting event dubbed 'Best of Bukom' featured two national titles as Joseph Commey was crowned Ghana Lightweight Champion when Victor Kuwornu failed to respond to the third round of the 10 rounder.

Sampson Segbedzi retained his Welterweight belt against Habib Kehinde Giwa on points while WBO Africa Bantamweight Champion Theo Lopez Allotey also won against Beninois Martin Kouassi Kaklevi in their international fray.

There were other interesting bouts on display and great entertainment on the night, though the venue was not packed. However as promised,, Dave presented special rings to all winners.

Security was on point just like the PA system and other arrangements on the bill that started on time with interviews, Red Carpet and expert protocol set up.

Dave Bishop who has been enstooled chief and goes by the name Nana Ekow Amu I, the Development Chief of Nyanfeku Ekroful in the Central Region of Ghana discovered a small community in Accra called  Bukom and realised their passion for boxing which has earned the nation 10 male world champions plus a female.

He is so impressed with the talent that abound in Bukom and it's surrounding areas like Jamestown,  Gbese, Korle We, Abola, Asere, Akotolante, Atukpai, Busia even to Korle Gonno and Chorkor, the whole region vibrates nothing but boxing which is loved by everyone including children and grannies.

Dave Bishop has received a warm welcome with his maiden production, which was par excellent. that could yield in Bukom getting a Boxing Academy.

His aim goal is to present a classic well equipped modern training center to the people who love what he also loves, boxing.

The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) commended Bishop Promotions' exceptional and professional approach as well as responsible attitude in ensuring and encouraging that events and programmes are organised positively.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

2022 Commonwealth Games Silver medalist,  Joseph Commey who is tipped to be a potential world champion for Ghana won the National Lightweight title with an amazing display and knock out over experienced Victor Kuwornu on the Bishop Promotions bill at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

The UBA African champion from the Black Panthers Gym, undefeated in three professional bouts says opponents are running away from him in Ghana so he wants to hit the continental and global terrain.

His manager, Alex Ntiamoah Boakye is hoping to get him bigger fights in other parts of Africa, Asia, Europe and USA.

He told Yours Truly there are positive plans for Commey who is the eye of Bukom currently. He also won Gold for Ghana at the 13th African Games.

On the night of exciting boxing, Haruna Sadat Mohammed and Isaac Commey also won by the short route of knock outs. Commey from Accra Boxing Club at Korle Gonno was too good for Issah Awal.

Stephen Coffie defeated Dwamena Kesse in a majority decision verdict, while WBO / UBO  Africa and National Champion Theo Lopez Allotey also beat Beninois opponent Francis Keklevi in their Super Flyweight contest.

Sampson Segbedzi was tested by Habib Giwa for ten rounds before he defended his National Welterweight belt.

Segbedzi who drew fans to the Arena including the MP for Ashaiman really had it tough and needs to work hard.

Heavyweight Joe Antwi aka Junior Bazooka and Nana Adjei Clinton of Wisdom Boxing Gym also performed creditably to record victories.

Issah Inusah, Kofi Dana, Micheal Abban and Emmanuel Mankatah were all winners on the bill.

Dave Bishop, the American promoter must be commended for putting up a classic show.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Middleweight contender, Michael Darko has challenged Mustapha Kamoko 8-1-0 to a contest on the Ayitey Powers Boxing Promotions Bill scheduled for Saturday September 27 at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

Michael Darko (7-3-0) from the stables of Cabic Management publicly called on the son of Bukom Banku to determine the best Middleweight boxers in Ghana.

Darko who was labeled as not strong by the fans asked why boxers are running away from him and dare Kamoko to face him if he is a man.

Mustapha Kamoko accepted the challenge, and both boxers put pen to paper to sign for a fight at .a public appearance at Jamestown last Friday.

The bill which is sponsored by Kasapreko has other amazing bouts with former IBO Lightweight champion Emmanuel Tagoe headlining the event.

Africanus Neequaye and Daniel Quaye will feature in a tough encounter as well as other fights.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Ayitey Powers Promotions in collaboration with Kasapreko Company Ltd are staging 'The Judgement Day' on Saturday September 27 at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

The event will feature former IBO world champion stylish Emmanuel Game Boy Tagoe and other crack boxers.

Game Boy who was on stage to assure boxing fans of his appearance said he is coming up with something new and spectacular because he has seen young boxers display and wants to encourage and motivate them.

He revealed not fighting for almost three years after engaging Ryan Garcia when he got injured, but he has no excuse but will return to excite the fans.

Rising stars Africanus Neequaye (9-0-0) of Jamestown Gym and Daniel Quaye (9-1-1) of the Bronx Gym will feature in a Super Lightweight contest, while Michael Darko will take of Mustapha Kamoko, son of Bukom Banku in a Middleweight fray.

According to experienced matchmaker Rasheed Williams aka Believer other boxers will feature on the bill, as his mission is to get boxers active while the face worthy opponents.

He noted that Ghana Boxing was falling but due to support from sponsors like Kasapreko the sport will rise and fans will be happy again.

Promoter Ayitey Powers who is a former boxer thanked all those supporting him to revive Ghana Boxing.

He said the involvement of Kasapreko Company has added some touch to the promotion and hopes the event on September 27 will be great.

Brands supporting Ayitey Powers include Puma, Hunters, Amarula, Awake, Storm, Alomo Bitters, Savanna and Choco Malt.

A special signing programme took place at Jamestown last Friday and the crowd that witnessed proves that Ghana Boxing is returning to glory days.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Young pugilist Joseph Commey has been tipped as a world beater who can turn the fortunes of Ghana in world boxing.

Known as 'Jaguar ' by his fans, the 22 year old is identified with the 2022 Commonwealth Silver and 2023 African Games Gold medals.

According to ace sports journalist, Ekow Asmah, he selects Commey as the potential to put the name of Ghana in the books of world boxing but wonders how it can be realised because local managers lack the financial foundation for boxing and do not attend international conventions.

He advised that Commey must be given the class guidelines and guidance to be a super star.

Joseph Commey who is unbeaten in his professional career fights for the Ghana National Lightweight Championship against experienced Victor Kuwornu on Saturday August 23 at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

The bout is promoted by Bishop Boxing Promotions with support from the Wisdom Boxing Gym.

He assured his fans of victory, but will never underrate an experienced boxer who is older.

"I give my opponent respect, but in the ring it is business and I have to finish it" he told Yours Truly at the Goodbox Gym at Labone.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Accra, Ghana – Ignite Media is excited to welcome Prince Anthony Bebli, a renowned sports presenter and media strategist, as its new Digital Marketing Manager.

Tony Bebli brings to the role over two decades of experience in broadcast media, production, and digital content management. A British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)-trained journalist, Bebli has earned recognition across the continent for his dynamic contributions to the media and sports industries.

He has previously worked with EIB Network(GhOne), where he headed production at iTV, and played multiple strategic roles at IMAX Media Group as Head of Content, Head of Digital, Head of  Production for Sports, and host of both sports and educational programmes. His hands-on approach and digital expertise will be key in driving Ignite Media’s online growth and audience engagement.

Beyond his media career, Bebli also serves as the General Manager of Five Star Football Club, a Division Two side based in Kasoa and Spokesperson for other clubs, reinforcing his commitment to grassroots sports development.

He began his career as a sports writer for the Hearts of Oak newspaper(Hearts News) before moving to Volta Star Radio (GBC)/Volta Premier in Ho  Later, while at Multimedia Group(JOY FM), he covered several international tournaments, including: Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2008 (for the BBC), All Africa Games (2011), London Olympic Games (2012), FIFA World Cup Brazil (2014).

Tony Bebli is also academically accomplished, holding a Bachelor's Degrees in Agricultural Engineering, Agribusiness and a Master’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Media, Arts and Communication – Institute of Journalism (UniMAC-IJ).

“Joining Ignite Media offers an exciting opportunity to help shape the digital narrative of a forward-thinking media house. I look forward to contributing meaningfully to its transformation,” he said.

With his vast experience and academic background, Bebli is expected to play a key role in enhancing Ignite Media’s digital strategy and content innovation.

From Sammy Heywood Okine

The Goodbox Gym established at Labone in Accra came up in February 2025 through the vision of young Ghanaian Kickboxer William Ofori Atta and the mission is to expand the combat sport, fitness and business.

However, though Goodbox Gym has already been of good use to the famous Freezy Macbones, it was the facility used by Ahmed Abdula before he won the National Cruiserweight title from Haruna Sadat Mohammed in the Battle of the Beasts Bill promoted by Legacy Rise Sports.

The Goodbox agenda is to develop, support, promote and project combat sports and teach self defence aside bodybuilding, aerobics, massage and others.

According to William Ofori Atta the ideas have also included taking boxing to other places in the capital, who have missed the action over the years.

"So we want to bring boxing to Labone, Cantoments, East Legon and Trassaco if possible, hence we have to get the training facility which must not be far from the people" he said.

He revealed that Goodbox has classes for several combat sports such as Boxing,  Kickboxing, Taekwondo, Karate Do, Judo, Mixed Martial Arts, MMA and Wrestling at moderate prices.

He hinted reaching out to deprived gyms to donate gloves and other equipment, as a way of showing social responsibility and love.

He acknowledged that Ghana has many talented boxers, but believes there must be more investment into sports and recreation for greater rewards in the future. .

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Mr. David Bishop, an American businessman and philanthropist who is spearheading the upcoming ‘Best of Bukom’ Boxing Show at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Saturday August 23 says boxing fans should expect an experience and fireworks.

Speaking to journalists at the state of the art Goodbox Gym at Labone in Accra, he said the ultimate goal of Bishop Boxing Promotions is to build an Academy which aims to become a beacon of opportunity, empowerment and sporting excellence for Ghana's youth.

He expressed gratitude to everyone who was at the “Best of Bukom Media Workout” hosted by William Ofori Atta’s GoodBox Gym.

“Your energy and enthusiasm made the event unforgettable, and we loved seeing the community come together to celebrate fitness and boxing”.

Mr. David Bishop an ace entertainment organizer said he has fallen in love with the talent and skillful boxers in Bukom and hopes to continue with series of bouts where winners will be awarded special rings.

He said this Saturday will be an event to remember describing it as the hottest boxing event this summer - the “BEST OF BUKOM with action-packed thrilling matches featuring 2022 Commonwealth Games silver medalist Joseph ‘Jaguar’ Commey,  WBO African Bantamweight and UBO African Super Flyweight champion Theophilus ‘Lopez’ Allotey, Haruna Mohammed aka Sadat, Joseph Antwi aka Juniour Bazooka, Nana Adjei Clinton aka President, Kofi Dana the rising star, hard punching Emmanuel Mankatah, Stephen Coffie, Michael Abban the ‘Black Spider’ and Sampson Segbedzi aka ‘Mama’s Boy’.

The boxers on the bill spoke to the media and each of them promised a good show.

The weigh in comes up at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Friday.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Hon. Michael Nii Kpakpo Allotey, the Mayor of Accra has launched the 3rd edition of the popular street art festival, Womba Accra under the theme, Koliko: 'Puppeteering for a positive future'.

The press launch which took place at the Omanye Aba Hall of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) attracted some youth of Accra, the major sponsor and media.

Mr. Douglas Anorfu, AMA Coordinating Director in a welcome address said Womba Accra has become a major part of activity to mark the Homowo Festival. He hoped for an improved peaceful and successful event.

Chief Priest Numo Ayitey Kobla III, Korle Wuloimo also prayed for an incident free event for everyone to enjoy.  He urged all people in Accra to join the festival which comes off on the High street from August 19 to 24.

Ace boxing promoter Alex Ntiamoah Boakye who is the Project Coordinator gave a round down of the programme lineup which includes cleansing, story telling, night of the lights, arts and culture street exhibition, folklore displays and musical concerts.

"There will also be blood donation and health screening for 4,000 people, while Gamada will host the Dunk basketball festival as well as boxing shows and massive concerts at Osikan and Mantse Agbona parks" he stated..

In his key note address, the Accra Mayor, Hon. Michael Nii Kpakpo Allotey said.he loves to be part of anything that promotes and projects the culture of Accra and the Ga language.

He was happy to be part of the event and expects to see Gas projected in all aspects to promote unity, peace and love.

He pledged to support the Womba Accra Festival fully and hoped that the youth will be involved and contribute positively.

Lawson Ltd Company, the major sponsors' representative Simon Ofoli Quaye presented a goodwill message and promised to support but cautioned people under the age of 18 not to drink the Lawson De-Ray Bitters.

Assembly members for Bubuashie and Kaneshie Hon. Daniel Omaboe and Ebenezer Aidoo were present.

By Sammy Heywood Okine