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 This year, 2024, holds special significance for our esteemed institution, the Annie Walsh Memorial School, established in 1849, and for all AWOGANs worldwide. We joyously commemorate 175 years of excellence since the founding of our beloved school and 40 years since the establishment of AWOGA UK. Our hearts are filled with gratitude as we give praise and glory to God for the achievements and milestones that make us proud.

As an organisation, we eagerly anticipate the years ahead, confident in our ability to continue leading. We extend heartfelt appreciation to all our donors, supporters, and well-wishers who have accompanied us on this remarkable 40-year journey. AWOGA UK has played a pivotal role in providing essential funds for the school's development.

Aligned with 21st-century educational standards, we remain committed to making a positive impact in our country and the diaspora. Recognising the crucial role of education in young people's lives, we have collaborated with AWOGANs globally on various projects for the past four decades.

One notable initiative includes AWOGA UK's longstanding scholarship programme, benefiting numerous underprivileged children annually. 

In response to the government's emphasis on ICT in secondary education in Sierra Leone, we joined forces with the Sierra Leone Grammar School Old Boys Association (SLGS OBA) in the UK. Through a ground-breaking collaboration, we organised the inaugural AnnieGramms event in June 2023. Proceeds from this event funded a STEM ICT Holiday Club in August 2023, benefiting 100 participants from AWMS, SLGS, and other secondary schools. Co-founded by AWOGA UK and SLGS OBA, this initiative marked the initiation of a new era in digital learning across the country. 

In our 175th year, we aim to modernise and enhance the existing computer lab at the school. Extensive feasibility studies have been conducted, and plans have been designed to bring our ICT facilities in line with contemporary standards, empowering our girls for the challenges of tomorrow. We firmly believe that nurturing a digitally literate generation with world-class ICT abilities will have a lasting impact on their development and contribute significantly to the country's economic growth.

Three cheers to AWMS and Bravo AWOGA UK. 

Claudia Bultman MA MCMI 

President, AWOGA UK

March 2024