Stories and facts
Adisadel College, fondly referred to as "Adisco", stands as an iconic Anglican boys' boarding institution located in Cape Coast, Ghana. Established in 1910 by Rt. Rev. Nathaniel T Hamlyn, the school holds the distinction of being one of the oldest secondary educational establishments in Ghana.
Over the years, Adisadel College has consistently upheld a standard of excellence, earning accolades and recognition both locally and internationally.
In 2003, it secured the 10th position in Africa Almanac's ranking of the top 100 high schools in Africa, showcasing its dedication to quality education, student engagement, and the remarkable accomplishments of its alumni. This acknowledgment was grounded in several criteria, encompassing educational standards, student involvement, alumni contributions, school reputation, and presence in media and online platforms.
Notably, Adisadel College continues to thrive, recently being hailed among the premier senior high schools in Ghana according to the standards set by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). Furthermore, in 2024, it proudly secured its position as the foremost senior high school in Cape Coast, as endorsed by YEN.
Delving into its rich history, Adisadel College embarked on its educational journey in 1910, housed initially at Topp Yard near Christ Church School, adjacent to the historic Cape Coast Castle. Starting with a modest enrollment of 29 boys, the institution experienced significant growth over the decades.
By 1935, its student body had expanded to around 200 pupils, a number that surged to 545 by its Golden Jubilee in 1960. The architectural expansion undertaken in 1950 by Maxwell Fry and Jane Drew laid the foundation for accommodating more students and fostering a conducive learning environment.
Rt. Rev. Nathaniel Temple Hamlyn, the visionary behind Adisadel, envisioned a grammar school that would cater to the education of Anglican boys in the colony and serve as a training ground for future clergy members. This noble aspiration laid the groundwork for what would become a revered educational institution.
Standing as the second-oldest secondary school in Ghana after Mfantsipim School, its arch-rival established by the Methodist Church in 1876, Adisadel College has earned its place among the most prestigious high schools in sub-Saharan Africa.
The school's distinctive uniform, featuring black-and-white striped shirts paired with black shorts, reflects the essence of the institution's colors. Affectionately dubbed "zebra boys", students proudly don this attire, symbolizing their affiliation with Adisadel.
Notably, the school holds the distinction of being the first secondary institution in Ghana to introduce special cloaks for prefects, a tradition that endures to this day, with red, blue, and green cloaks denoting various leadership roles.
Adisadel College stands as a beacon of academic excellence and tradition, shaping generations of young minds and leaving an indelible mark on Ghana's educational landscape.
