Ghanaians are renowned for their unwavering pride, hospitality and the vibrant display of their national identity, especially when their compatriots achieve greatness on international stages. This sentiment rings even louder among Ghanaians in the diaspora, who cherish every moment their fellow countrymen and women bring honor to their homeland. Such was the case when St. Louis Senior High School emerged as the lone African high school competing in the prestigious National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Robotics Competition. The talented team participated in NSBE Vex Robotics Competition, competing against over 20 junior competitors, and earned an impressive 11th place.
This remarkable achievement has filled the Ghanaian community in Chicago and the SLOPSA USA community with immense pride and joy.Their participation ignited immense pride within the Ghanaian community in Chicago, who celebrated this remarkable milestone.
The excitement and admiration were palpable as the Ghana National Council of Metropolitan Chicago, alongside members of the Opoku Ware Old Students Union in Chicago (affectionately known as Akatakyie) and other Ghanaian groups, rallied to recognize the robotics team’s outstanding achievement. These champions of Ghana’s youth excellence received heartfelt praise, gifts, and unrelenting encouragement during a special visit to Joliet, Illinois, where the team was based.
Mr. Effah Ameyaw, Sergeant-at-Arms of the Ghana National Council (GNC) and fondly referred to as Kakape, led a distinguished delegation to represent the Council’s President, Mr. Kassim Abubakari . In his heartfelt remarks , Mr. Ameyaw extended deep gratitude to the team for uplifting the name of Ghana on an international platform. He urged them to reach even greater heights, emphasizing the incredible visibility and prestige they had brought to their nation.
Accompanying Mr. Ameyaw were the welfare officer , Mr. Michael Opoku-Agyeman and Caresse Ethel Adongo, Assistant Secretary and a proud alumna of St. Louis Senior High School, known as a SLOPSAN , and others. Together, they symbolized the unbreakable connection between the past and present generations of Ghanaians dedicated to excellence.
The Chicago branch of Akatakyie added to the celebration by presenting the team members with beautifully decorated Stanley cups, emblazoned with the logo of the Opoku Ware Old Boys Association—a touching gesture of solidarity and admiration. The gesture was complemented by a sumptuous treat of authentic Ghanaian cuisine by the GNC. The team delighted in dishes like the ever-popular jollof rice, golden fried plantains, and other traditional delicacies, a feast that brought a taste of home to their Chicago experience and strengthened their bond with their supporters.
Adding further value to the occasion, Dr. Daniel Abankwa, a supportive husband of a SLOPSAN, delivered an enlightening educational presentation. He highlighted scholarships and academic opportunities for studying abroad, inspiring the young women to dream beyond boundaries and seize global opportunities.
The participation of St. Louis Senior High in the NSBE Robotics Competition stands as a testament to the brilliance of Ghana’s youth and the enduring pride of its people. It’s a vivid reminder that Ghana’s spirit of excellence transcends borders and touches hearts worldwide. Bravo to the team for carrying the torch of national pride with grace and distinction!
Pictures : Credit Kakape and Caresse
Source: Sankofaonline.com
Well done to the Robotics team. I hope you had a great time and lots of learning experience. Have a safe flight back.