The Member of Parliament for Akuapem North and former National Youth Organiser of the New Patriotic Party, Sammi Awuku, has launched the Sammi Awuku Change Makers Award, a new initiative aimed at recognising leadership, service and environmental responsibility among students and teachers of St. Augustine’s College.

The award was unveiled during the school’s 96th Speech and Prize Giving Day, where Mr Awuku, an old student, served as chairman of the celebrations.

Speaking before dignitaries, including Ghana's Vice President, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, he said the initiative was designed to encourage a new generation of leaders committed not only to academic excellence but also to responsible citizenship and sustainable development.

“It is therefore in recognition of this responsibility, and in celebration of the leadership values that define this great institution, that I am pleased to announce the establishment of the Sammi Awuku Change Makers Award, an initiative by the APSU 2G1 Year Group,” he said.

According to him, the award seeks to highlight students and teachers who actively demonstrate leadership and commitment to positive change within the school community and beyond.

“This award is intended to recognise and honour students and teachers who demonstrate exceptional leadership, public spiritedness, commitment to sustainability, and the courage to champion positive change within their houses, classrooms, campus, and communities,” Mr Awuku stated.

Six-Year Commitment to Leadership Recognition

Under the initiative, one student and one teacher will be honoured each year for the next six years.

“Over the next six years, this award will be presented annually to one student and one teacher whose actions exemplify the highest standards of integrity, initiative, and service,” he announced.

Each recipient will receive GH¢5,000, which he described as both recognition and encouragement for their efforts to influence their environment positively.

“Each recipient will receive a cash prize of five thousand Ghana cedis (GHS 5,000.00), signifying recognition of the positive influence they bring to their environment and the inspiration they provide to others,” he said.

Mr Awuku explained that the award also seeks to deepen awareness about sustainable development and responsible leadership among young people.

“The purpose of this initiative is to reinforce the idea that leadership is not defined only by titles or positions, but also by the willingness to serve others, to protect the environment, and to act in ways that promote sustainable and responsible development,” he emphasised.

Celebrating a Legacy of Leadership

Reflecting on the significance of the anniversary, Mr Awuku said returning to his alma mater was both an honour and a reminder of the values instilled in generations of students.

“Being back here on the land that nurtured my colleagues and me is indeed a privilege as we celebrate the 96th Anniversary and Speech and Prize Giving Day of St. Augustine’s College,” he said.

He noted that the school’s influence extends well beyond its physical campus.

“Days such as this invite us to celebrate achievement and reflect on the journey of an institution whose influence stretches far beyond these walls and into the leadership, service, and contributions of the many Augusco Boys who have passed through this great school.”

Mr Awuku described the college as a place where academic excellence is intertwined with character formation and leadership training.

“St. Augustine’s College has, for generations, stood as a place where young minds are sharpened, character is formed, and leadership is nurtured.”

Upholding the AUGUSCO Motto

He also reflected on the school’s long-standing motto, Omnia Vincit Labor — Perseverance Conquers All — describing it as a guiding philosophy that continues to shape students’ outlook.

“For decades, these words have guided the aspirations of students and teachers alike, reminding us that true achievement goes beyond the product of convenience or circumstance,” he said.

“It is this belief that has carried generations through moments of challenge and triumph alike, and it is this same principle that continues to shape the young men who sit before us today.”

Call to Students to Shape the Future

Mr Awuku urged students to use their time in school not only for academic preparation but also to develop the values that will guide their future leadership.

“Your time here is not limited to preparing for examinations or future careers; it also includes discovering the kind of individuals you wish to become and the values that will guide your choices in the years ahead,” he advised.

“Each of you has the capacity to influence your peers, contribute to your community, and play a role in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future.”

Tribute to Teachers

He also paid tribute to the teachers and staff of the school for their enduring role in shaping students.

“Your patience, guidance, and mentorship create an environment in which young people are encouraged to think critically, act responsibly, and pursue excellence in all aspects of their lives,” he said.

Preserving a Century-Old Legacy

As the college approaches a century of existence, Mr Awuku called on stakeholders to continue protecting and strengthening its legacy.

“As we celebrate the accomplishments of the students who are receiving awards today, let us also renew our collective commitment to preserving and strengthening the values that have sustained St. Augustine’s College for nearly a century,” he said.

“In doing so, we affirm once again the timeless truth captured in the words that have guided this school for decades — that through dedication, resilience, and purposeful action, Omnia Vincit Labor — Perseverance Conquers All.”