Dr. Rosina Acheampong, the trailblazing first Ghanaian and non-missionary headmistress of Wesley Girls' High School, has passed away.
The revered educator and disciplinarian reportedly died on January 1, 2025, though the cause of her death remains unknown.
Fondly known as "Archie" by her students, Dr. Acheampong dedicated 30 years of her life to the prestigious institution, including 16 years as its headmistress from 1981 to 1997.
She succeeded Mrs. Howarth (née Clarice Garnett), becoming the first Ghanaian head of the school after three years as its assistant headmistress.
During her tenure, Dr. Acheampong upheld and further elevated the high academic and moral standards of Wesley Girls', cementing her legacy as a formidable force in Ghanaian education.
Beyond her tenure at Wesley Girls', she achieved another first by becoming the Ghana Education Service's first female Deputy Director-General, a role that further underscored her commitment to advancing education, particularly for girls.
Her death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from former students and admirers on social media.
Many credit her with shaping their lives and laying the foundation for their success.
Citizen Ogya Esi wrote: "Yesterday, I lost my 2nd mother. Archie - Mrs. Rosina Acheampong (legendary Wesley Girls' High School headmistress), who was also an AGE advisory board member. I lived with her for my first 3 years in WGHS, and I'm very close to her to this day. It's a tough one, given that I lost my Mom just about 6 months ago. May the Lord give her rest.
She was one of my biggest cheerleaders ever, and allllways pushed me to do more and give everything my best, especially my calling to work with young people and with the elderly. I'll miss her sorely. Grace and strength! hmm..."
Dr. Esi Ansah, a close former student, described her as a second mother.
“Archie was one of my biggest cheerleaders, always pushing me to excel. Her legacy in shaping young minds and inspiring greatness is unmatched,” she wrote.
Another alumna, Afua Kunadu-Awuah, highlighted her impact, saying, “Countless trailblazers across the world owe their success to her sacrifices for girl-child education. Rest well, Archie. You’ve fought a good fight, and your crown awaits you.”
Lady-eileen Erskine said: "Awww Archie. She will sorely be missed." Selasie Adzo Akyianu wrote: "Indomitable Archie has gone on to be with the Lord? Naughty angels 😇 should align. May her soul rest in peace. Didn’t know her but I sure heard a lot about her."
In her 2020 autobiography, Dr. Acheampong chronicled her journey at Wesley Girls' and her contributions to education.
Her influence extended beyond those who directly encountered her; even students who attended the school after her tenure were inspired by stories of her achievements.
The news of her passing marks the end of an era for many, as her contributions to education and mentorship have left an indelible mark.
Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched and the standards she set for future generations.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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