The St. Teresa’s College of Education (TERESCO) – Hohoe in the Catholic Diocese of Ho witnessed a weekend of deep nostalgia, gratitude, and celebration as the 1996 cohort marked their landmark 30th anniversary.
Held from August 14 to August 16, 2026, at the Bishop Konning’s Hall on the school’s premises, the grand reunion operated under the inspiring theme: “Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Present, and Inspiring the Future.”
The highlight of the celebrations on Saturday, August 15, 2026, was a heartfelt tribute paid to Sr. Margaret Akordor, SMMC, a stalwart educator whose tireless dedication left an indelible mark on the lives of the 1996 year group.
Setting the tone for the main event, the Chairperson of the Teresco ’96 30th Anniversary Planning Committee, Dr. Hawa Osman, delivered a poignant welcome address.
Reflecting on the formative years of the alumni, Dr. Osman noted:
“Today we return not only as former students but also as educators, administrators, health professionals, entrepreneurs, public servants, clergy, and leaders in diverse fields of endeavours. Our individual achievements reflect the7 quality of education and formation we received from this noble institution “.
These sentiments resonated deeply, shining a spotlight on the exceptional caliber of staff and management who shaped the students during their time on campus.
Among these foundational figures was Sr. Margaret Akordor of the Sisters of Mary Mother of the Church (SMMC).
Sr. Margaret served at Teresco with unwavering commitment from 1986 to 1996 as a tutor. Beyond her academic responsibilities, teaching Religious Studies and Cultural Studies, she was a vibrant pillar of campus life.
She wore many hats, serving as: Music Director and lead coordinator of liturgy, Housemistress in charge of St. Margaret Mary House, Spiritual mentor guiding the Sacred Heart Confraternity and the Legion of Mary.
She also prepared students to receive the Sacraments.
Now in retirement, Sr. Margaret reflected on three decades of pouring her energy, faith, and discipline into molding leaders.
Reminiscing about her time in the classroom, she recalled teaching students a song titled “Bloom Where You Are Planted.” Because the students initially struggled with the depth of the lyrics, they affectionately nicknamed her “Bloom”; a moniker she proudly embraces today as she watches them flourish.
Reflecting on the deeper meaning of education and service, Sr. Margaret shared:
”Each of us has a vital role to play in life, and we are recognized by how we use the gift of life and the kind of fruit we bear with those gifts… As teachers, we are called to be educators, not merely teachers. We can make a positive impact in the world and add colors to people’s lives if we live up to our calling.”
Admitting her initial surprise upon receiving the invitation and award; wondering if she had truly made enough of an impact to be remembered after thirty years, she concluded with profound insight: one never fully realizes the depth of their giving until the impact shows.
Some other tutors who were awarded were: Air Commondore Mathias Awuah, Ms. Mary Abrah Togoe, Very Rev. Fr. Pascal Afesi and Ms. Vincentia Darkey.
The grand celebration drew an array of esteemed dignitaries, traditional rulers, and academic leaders, underscoring the prestige of the institution and the significance of the milestone.
Key personalities present included:
Prof. Scholastica Womkakeh Azuah, Principal of St. Teresa’s College of Education, Hohoe; Rev. Fr. Bernard Toffa, School Chaplain. Rev. Fr. Pascal Afesi, Former School Chaplain. Togbe Buami IX, Chief of Gbi-Bla.
Others were Hon. Prosper Kumi, Municipal Chief Executive, Hohoe Municipal Assembly. Prof. Francis Bruno Zotor, Professor at the University of Health and Allied Sciences ( UHAS); and Mrs. Mariam Jemima Akua Adzroe, Acting Volta Regional Director of Education.
The anniversary celebration concluded with renewed pledges from the alumni to support infrastructural and academic advancements at their alma mater, ensuring that Teresco continues to raise exemplary leaders for generations to come.
A brief profile of TERESCO
St. Teresa’s College of Education (Teresco), an all-female institution was established on November 1, 1961 with 35 pioneer students drawn from all the then nine (9) regions of Ghana.
The College was founded by His Lordship Rt. Rev Anthony Konings of blessed memory who was the Bishop of Keta Diocese.
The College was initially opened as a 2-Year Certificate ‘B’ College and was called Women’s Training College (WOTRACO).
The name was changed to St. Teresa’s College in 1964 when the institution was placed under the patronage of St. Teresa of the Child Jesus and adopted the motto: ‘Live the Truth in Charity’.
The aim of the founder was to establish a Catholic Teacher Training College for Women in the Diocese which would give a sound moral, spiritual and professional education in the true Catholic tradition.
By Sr. Angela Amoatwo, SMMC
(Catholic Sister Communicators Network-Ghana-CASCON-GH)
