By Ayodele G.E. Warburton LL.B., LL.M., MSCM - President OPWA USA
The partnership forged between the Old Prince Waleans Association (OPWA) and the Freetown Secondary School for Girls (FSSGIANS) within the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area transcends mere camaraderie; it is a rich alliance grounded in historical significance and mutual respect that has evolved over the years. The historical connection between the Prince of Wales (POW) School and FSSG in Sierra Leone illustrates a profound relationship that transcends geographic boundaries and generational divides. FSSG is often regarded as the female counterpart to the predominantly male student body of POW School, highlighting a dual narrative of educational development within the same community framework.
These two illustrious institutions, both progeny of the colonial era but founded by distinct entities, reflect a nuanced educational landscape nurtured to meet specific societal needs. The POW School, established in 1925, emerged as one of the earliest national educational institutions initiated by the colonial government in Freetown. It was designed with an acute focus on the sciences and modern languages, positioning itself as a pivotal establishment for young male scholars.
In parallel, the Freetown Secondary School for Girls was founded a year later, in 1926, by pioneering Krio citizens. FSSG aimed to provide modern education tailored for girls, positioning itself not merely as an educational facility but as a beacon of empowerment for young women in Freetown. It is, therefore, justifiable to characterize FSSG as the educational counterpart to POW School—a relationship that is both symbolic and functional.
The intertwined history of these institutions is marked by their concurrent establishment, which invoked a perception of them as paired entities within a singular community. While POW School catered predominantly to male students, it eventually embraced female students in its sixth form levels. This gradual inclusion further enriched their institutional bond, as community members perceived them as two halves of a whole, where one school complemented the educational needs of the other, each fulfilling a critical role in their societal context.
In the contemporary setting of the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area, OPWA and FSSGIANS have fostered fruitful collaboration across various religious and social functions over the years. This partnership has cultivated numerous opportunities for joint community activities and alumni events, underscoring their shared commitment to advance the legacy of both institutions.
One notable event is the annual luncheon sale hosted by FSSGIANS in Maryland, where OPWA's presence is a constant. Members of OPWA attend this event, participating in a cultural celebration that features delectable African dishes and cultural apparel, fostering not only culinary appreciation but also cultural pride.
In addition to community engagement events, both organizations support each other during significant gatherings, such as their respective annual dinner and dance. This collaborative spirit is evidenced by OPWA’s assistance in promoting FSSGIANS' gala, including securing tables for OPWA and actively participating in fundraising efforts. In a reciprocal fashion, FSSGIANS extends similar support during OPWA’s events, reinforcing their shared commitment to mutual advancement and support.
The annual Thanksgiving service serves as another vital intersection of the two organizations, where FSSGIANS typically attends in large numbers to support OPWA. During this sacred event, members of FSSGIANS take on the role of collectors, facilitating the offering process, thus contributing to the seamless operation of the service. This tradition of reciprocal support is exemplified by my own selection as a collector during the 38th annual Thanksgiving service of FSSGIANS, an opportunity that further exemplifies the interconnectedness of these two organizations.
Moreover, the annual OPWA/FSSGIANS picnic is a celebrated occasion that brings both associations together in a convivial atmosphere. This gathering features an assortment of traditional culinary delights, including Jollof rice, fried rice, Suya (grilled meat skewers), Akara (bean fritters), and pap (rice porridge). Additional picnic staples such as fried fish, plantains, and meat pies further enrich the culinary experience, serving as a delicious testament to the vibrant culture shared by both groups.
In conclusion, the collaboration between the OPWA and FSSGIANS extends beyond the facilitation of shared activities and alumni events; it is a partnership deeply rooted in their historical backgrounds, reflecting their intertwined societal roles as complementary institutions within Freetown's educational landscape. This collaboration not only preserves their legacy but also strengthens the cultural and educational bonds that continue to flourish in the diaspora.
Last year, POW celebrated its 100th anniversary. I want to take a moment to congratulate FSSG as they mark their centenary.