Stories and facts
Wesley Girls' High School (WGHS), nestled in the heart of Cape Coast in Ghana's Central region, stands as a beacon of education and empowerment for young girls since its inception in 1836. Founded by Harriet Wrigley, the wife of a Methodist minister, the school bears the name of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, reflecting its deep-rooted connection to the Methodist faith.
Established with just 25 girls, WGHS began as a primary school with a mission to provide comprehensive education encompassing reading, writing, sewing, housekeeping, and most importantly, moral and spiritual development. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the leading educational institutions in Ghana, earning accolades for its commitment to excellence.
WGHS's dedication to holistic education is reflected in its numerous achievements. In 2003, Africa Almanac ranked the school 68th among the top 100 high schools in Africa, considering factors such as the quality of education, student engagement, alumni activities, and school profile. Notable among its achievements is the triumph in the Sprite Ball Championship in 2008 and 2016, showcasing the school's prowess in sports alongside academics.
The legacy of WGHS extends far beyond its campus, with its alumnae making significant contributions to various fields both locally and internationally. From educationists like Rosina Acheampong, the first female deputy director-general of the Ghana Education Service (GES), to trailblazers like Melody Millicent Danquah, Africa's first female pilot, WGHS alumni have left an indelible mark on society.
The list of distinguished alumnae includes leaders in government, judiciary, academia, business, and the arts, such as Sophia Akuffo, Ghana's 13th Chief Justice; Ama Ata Aidoo, an award-winning author and former Minister of Education; and Angela Kyerematen-Jimoh, a business leader and Microsoft's Financial Strategic Partnership Lead for Africa.
Beyond producing accomplished individuals, WGHS remains committed to empowering future generations of young women. Its curriculum, enriched with a blend of academic rigor and character development, instills values of leadership, resilience, and service, preparing students to navigate the complexities of the modern world with confidence and integrity.
As Wesley Girls' High School celebrates over a century and a half of excellence in education, its legacy continues to inspire and uplift generations of young women across Ghana and beyond. Rooted in its founding principles of academic excellence and moral fortitude, WGHS remains a shining example of the transformative power of education in shaping lives and shaping the future.
