A fast-growing school in the Ashanti Region is defying early challenges and pandemic-era beginnings to make significant strides in education. Elysian International School, located at Appiadu-Kokoben, is steadily building a strong reputation for delivering quality, child-centered learning.
Founded on January 12, 2021, by Mr. Edward Kofi Agyei Fokuo, the school started with just 18 pupils and a bold vision for transformative education. Today, enrolment has surged to 242 students, a testament to its steady growth and community trust.
Head Teacher Mr. Richmond Agyapong, in his first leadership role, admits that managing such a fast-expanding school has been demanding but remains dedicated to maintaining high educational standards:
“It’s not easy, but I’m doing my best. We promoted the school during the COVID-19 pandemic using radio, TV, flyers, and community volunteers. Thankfully, we never recorded any COVID-19 cases when we opened.”
Elysian began with a modest staff of five—three teachers, a security officer, and a caterer—but has since expanded both in personnel and programs. The school now offers extracurricular activities such as Cadet training and drama, with plans to introduce music classes soon. Students benefit from a fully equipped computer lab, and while the school currently lacks a library, upper primary students are allowed to borrow books directly from the head teacher’s office.
Teacher recruitment is driven by qualification, experience, and passion, with special emphasis on hiring women with motherhood experience for the crèche to foster patience and nurturing care.
School Director Mr. Akwasi Twum Agyei highlighted the importance of building strong teacher-parent relationships while acknowledging past administrative hurdles, including a court case involving an unpaid SSNIT contribution of 54 cedis. He also expressed concern over declining student performance, attributing it to excessive phone use and social media distractions:
“Some of our brightest kids are losing focus because of phone addiction, but we’re engaging both students and parents to turn this around.”
Upper primary English teacher Mrs. Beauty Kusi Frimpong shared that while English remains a priority, students are also encouraged to learn other languages such as French. She noted that Artificial Intelligence tools are being gradually introduced where compatible with the curriculum.
Parents have increasingly come to trust Elysian’s nurturing approach. Mr. Emmanuel Mawule Segbefia, a teacher and community executive with two children at the school, praised its safe environment and consistent academic progress:
“Even when parents aren’t around, the children are in safe hands. Academic progress is consistent.”
Similarly, Madam Isabella Kyei, a public school teacher and member of the Girl Child Support Association, chose Elysian for her daughter because of its dedicated teachers, supportive environment, and initiatives promoting girl-child education. She commended the school’s affordable bus service and nutritious meals while urging parents to monitor children’s smartphone usage and language development at home.
Elysian International School Celebrates 4th Anniversary with Promotion Ceremony and Awards
Elysian International School has proudly celebrated a major milestone, graduating its first batch of students 12 pupils from basic 6 and 23 pupils from KG 2 in all were 35 pupils during the school’s 4th anniversary celebration. The ceremony, which was attended by parents, guardians, and members of the community, marked a moment of achievement and growth for the young institution.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to outstanding pupils, with Ms. Gloria Adiya receiving the prestigious Overall Best Student award. In her speech, Gloria attributed her success to the constant encouragement and support of her mother, who has been her greatest motivation throughout her academic journey.
“My mother always tells me to study hard and use my knowledge wisely,” Gloria shared. “I hope other students will also take their studies seriously and aim higher in life.”
The ceremony was graced by the media team from Orange FM, who covered the memorable occasion as the school continues to make strides in academic excellence and holistic education.
Parents and guardians, visibly proud, were present in large numbers to support their wards as they transitioned to the next stage in their education.
With a rapidly growing student population, strong community backing, and a commitment to holistic education, Elysian International School is emerging as a beacon of hope for families in Appiadu-Kokoben and beyond.
