GG's proclamation sets off Calabar's centenary celebrations

Governor General Sir Patrick Allen has set the wheels of the 100th anniversary celebrations of Calabar High School in motion with the issuing of the formal proclamation declaring September 2012 as the institution's Centenary Month.

September 12 will also be celebrated as the school's Centenary Founders' Day.

Issuing the proclamation at King's House before a gathering of Calabar old boys and present students, Sir Patrick said, in its 100 years, Calabar High School had earned the reputation as one of Jamaica's finest high schools, renowned for the outstanding contributions of its graduates in all areas of endeavour and in service to the nation, especially in the process from decolonisation to Independence and through to this, the 50th anniversary of independent Jamaica.

The proclamation noted that while Calabar had good reason to celebrate given its glorious history, proud legacy and record of accomplishments, there was the resolve to "build on the established foundations for the next hundred years so that Calabar will remain the school of choice for strengthening the capacity, character and contribution of the sons of Jamaica".

During the month of September, the school will mark the centenary with a number of activities, including The Centenary Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, September 9, at the East Queen Street Baptist Church starting at 10 a.m., to be led by Bishop Howard Gregory; the official opening and dedication of a newly constructed block of classrooms on Monday, September 17.

Other activities planned include visits to the school by old boys, competitions between current and old boys, the planting of trees on the campus, and an appreciation function honouring teachers, staff and entities that have supported Calabar over the years.

The Calabar Centenary Celebrations Committee is under the chairmanship of the Reverend Karl Henlin with former prime minister the Most Hon P.J. Patterson as honorary chairman.