The Deputy High Commissioner of Sierra Leone to the United Kingdom, Mrs. Yvonne King Odigboh, today served as Grand Chief Patron at the 40th Annual Thanksgiving Mass of the St. Joseph’s Secondary School Ex-Pupils’ Association UK, held at Our Lady of the Annunciation Church in Croydon, under the theme: “*Legacy and Excellence: Honouring the Past, Celebrating the Present, Shaping the Future*.”
This year’s celebration carries special significance as it coincides with the 160th Anniversary of the School, recently celebrated with great aplomb in Freetown. Saint Joseph’s Secondary School is one of Sierra Leone’s most respected institutions for girls’ education, founded in 1866 by the Sisters of St. Joseph de Cluny. For generations, the school has produced distinguished women leaders who have contributed immensely to national development and public service.
During the Thanksgiving Mass, Mrs. Yvonne King Odigboh delivered the First Reading from Ecclesiasticus 44:1, 10–15 and led the Responsorial Psalm from Psalm 127:1–3. The readings reflected on the enduring legacy of righteous men and women whose good works continue through generations, while emphasizing that all lasting achievements are built through God’s guidance and blessing. The scriptures resonated deeply with the values of faith, discipline, excellence, and service that have defined the St. Joseph’s tradition for more than a century and a half.
A particularly touching moment during the celebration came when Mrs. Doris Smith, a Founder Member of the St. Joseph’s Secondary School Ex-Pupils’ Association in the United Kingdom, shared heartfelt reflections on the Association’s early beginnings and the enduring bond among Josephines in the diaspora. She recalled the sacrifices, unity, and determination of the pioneering members who came together decades ago to preserve the spirit and traditions of their beloved alma mater far from home. Her moving reminiscence drew admiration and applause from many in attendance, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring sisterhood and shared heritage that continue to unite generations of Josephines.
The occasion also highlighted the importance of education in Sierra Leone’s national development agenda, particularly under the leadership of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio. Through the Government’s flagship Free Quality School Education Programme, significant progress continues to be made in expanding access to education, promoting girls’ education, and strengthening human capital development across the country.
The Government’s strong commitment to education continues to inspire diaspora alumni associations to work even harder in supporting educational advancement and nation-building. Through mentorship, the provision of scholarships and school materials, sponsorships, and fundraising initiatives, ex-pupil associations continue to strengthen their former schools while contributing meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s social and economic progress both at home and within the diaspora.
The celebration also symbolised strength, endurance, growth, and deep-rooted unity. Like strong seasoned wood that withstands the test of time, the Association has remained resilient and committed to preserving the proud legacy of St. Joseph’s Secondary School over the past four decades.
The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by the President of the Association, Ms. Fatmata Bah, who expressed appreciation to patrons, clergy, members, and supporters for their continued dedication to the school and its enduring legacy.
Abdulai Braima
Information Attaché