By Edward Marah
A girls’ school, (Harford School for Girls) had been established in the British colony of Sierra Leone in Moyamba in 1900,and it was decided to establish a similar boys’ school. The UBC mission was responsible for finding land for the school, and originally proposed locating it in Shenge, the home of missionary Ira Albert. Eventually, however, the board decided that Shenge was too small, so they established the school in the colony’s capital at Freetown.
The Albert Academy was founded on 4 October 1904, and was named after Ira Albert, who had recently been killed in a boating accident. When the academy was founded, it had just one teacher, a Mr. L Turner, and four pupils. The first principal was Reverend Raymond P. Dougherty, with Edwin Hursh as vice principal.
The original location was in Freetown’s East Street. In 1907, the academy relocated to its present location on Berry Street. Albert Academy has a rich history and has produced many notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields among them includes; Sir Milton Margai – The first Prime Minister of Sierra Leone, who led the country to independence, Siaka Stevens – The first President of Sierra Leone, John Karefa-Smart – A distinguished doctor and politician, Dr Abdulai Conteh – The first constitutional lawyer and Former Attorney General and Vice President of Sierra Leone and David Lansana – The first Former Chief of Defense Staff of the Sierra Leone Armed Forces to name but few.
Albert Academy has also made significant contributions to the economic, social, and political development of Sierra Leone through its alumni and educational initiatives among which includes:
Economic Contributions
- Education and Workforce Development: By providing quality education, Albert Academy has equipped many students with the skills needed to contribute to various sectors of the economy.
- Alumni in Business: Many alumni have become successful entrepreneurs and business leaders, driving economic growth and creating job opportunities.
Social Contributions
- Community Engagement: The school has been involved in various community service projects, fostering a sense of social responsibility among students.
- Cultural Preservation: Through events and activities, Albert Academy has played a role in preserving and promoting Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage.
- Public Service: Many alumni have served in various capacities within the government, contributing to policy-making and national development.
As the school celebrates its 120 years of excellence, the alumni under the leadership of Mr. Bismarck Coker President and Vice President Madam Zainab Attire Kabba are committed to keeping the school legacy alive for the development of the country. Esse Quam Vederi (Rather to be than to Seem).