We are committed to sustaining leadership in academic and career achievement for women in Sierra Leone. With the recent inclusion of computer science and ICT in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), AWMS faces three significant challenges that we aim to address through this project.
This project is led by AWOGA UK, however the other alumni groups are supporting this campaign.
During the 175th anniversary celebration, significant funds were raised mainly through the Decade Africana Competition Service and the Sponsored Health Walk, forming the Decade Fund. These funds were strategically allocated to four key projects, following a collaborative meeting involving the main committee, decade representatives, school administrators, and other key stakeholders ensuring that all selected initiatives addressed the school’s most pressing needs.
The four approved Decade projects were: –
Phase 1 addressed the deteriorating wall along the Chapel side of the school. The old coping and weakened brickwork were removed and replaced with a reinforced concrete beam, a 1.5-metre brick wall, new coping, and concertina wire for added safety. The entire stretch was plastered and finished internally, giving the school a strong, uniformed, and visually improved boundary.
Perimeter Fence Rehabilitation – Phase 1 (Before & After)
Phase 2 continued the rehabilitation from Elk Street to the Clock Tower, covering a total of 178 meters. Works included demolition and reconstruction of the wall using reinforced concrete beams, brickwork, coping, Y-bars, and concertina wire. Extensive drainage improvements were also carried out to address the challenging soil conditions, ensuring durability and preserving the integrity of the school compound.
Perimeter Fence Rehabilitation – Phase 2 (Before & After)
To further complement the main rehabilitation, AWOGA approved additional works in June 2025. These included:
* Replacement of two dilapidated septic tanks and soak-away pits
* Construction of inspection chambers and drain connections
* Provision of interlocking paving bricks, concrete kerbs, and a reinforced concrete retaining wall
* Landscaping with flower beds and pots, using humus soil and decorative plants
* Painting of newly constructed flower pots
* Conversion of an old steel door to a window for improved ventilation
These additions significantly improved drainage, aesthetics, functionality, and airflow across selected areas of the school.
This project was initiated to promote sustainable energy solutions and reduce dependency on the national grid. In phase 2 of the Solar Water System, we invested in and installed an additional 6 ×445 watts of solar panels, one lithium battery, and other necessary materials. This enhanced system is designed to power the school chapel, classrooms, submersible pump, and surface pumping machines, ensuring a more reliable and eco-friendly energy supply. This improvement directly benefits the pupils and staff, contributing to a healthier learning environment.
Phase 2 – Solar Battery
The senior school toilets have been fully upgraded, providing hygienic facilities for the pupils. This project has greatly improved the daily comfort and well-being of the senior school pupils.
Senior Secondary School Toilet – Before & After
AWOGA also undertook temporary works around the Lower Court area to improve safety, organization, and accessibility. This included clearing debris and long-parked vehicles, patching and repair of existing stone walls where deterioration was evident, and installing a chain-link fence with a lockable entrance gate. These efforts restored order and functionality to an area that had long been congested.
Lower Court – Clearing & Mesh Fencing (Before & After)
All funds for the AWOGA 175ᵗʰ Anniversary Decade Projects were raised through the Decade Africana Competition and the Health Walk/Dash Card Competition. A separate account was maintained for transparency and accountability, with funds received in Leones, Pounds, Euros, and Dollars. Funds for the Decade Projects were derived from Decade contributions and supplementary support from the main 175th Anniversary account. The Decade Funds were fully utilized, with a minor top-up provided to settle final obligations to the Contractor.
The rehabilitated fence and associated works were officially unveiled and dedicated on 28th October 2025. The ceremony, chaired by AWOGAN Cordelia Williams, Secretary of the 175ᵗʰ Committee, began in the School Chapel, walking through the pavement and Wall fencing right on to the Lower Court.
Highlights included an overview and tour of the Decade Projects by AWOGAN Betsy I.D.S. Deen (Chairperson, 175ᵗʰ Anniversary Committee), the unveiling of the commemorative plaque by AWOGAN Sylvia Boyle, ribbon-cutting by representatives of each decade group, and the dedication of all completed works by His Lordship Bishop T.A.I. Wilson.
Unveiling & Dedication of Decade Projects
These projects reflect AWOGA’s enduring commitment to improving the infrastructure, security, and learning environment of the Annie Walsh Memorial School. Through unity, generosity, and dedicated leadership, AWOGA continues to build and preserve a firm foundation for future generations. AWOGA remains deeply committed to supporting the Annie Walsh Memorial School in building a safer, stronger, and more beautiful environment for teaching and learning.
“Non Sibi Sed Omnibus”
Betsy I.D.S Deen
Chairperson 175th Anniversary Celebration