Achimota School makes history as first school to feature on Ghana Cedi note

Achimota School, popularly known as Motown, has made history by becoming the first educational institution to be featured on Ghana's banknotes following the unveiling of the Bank of Ghana's new Heritage Series currency.

The historic recognition places the prestigious institution on the country's currency, highlighting its contribution to Ghana's educational development and its connection to one of the notable personalities being honored in the new banknote series.

Originally established in 1924 as the Prince of Wales College and School at Achimota, the institution was founded through the efforts of Sir Frederick Gordon Guggisberg, Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey, and the Reverend Alec Garden Fraser.

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It later became known as Achimota College before adopting its current name, Achimota School.

The decision to feature the school on the new Ghana cedi notes was explained by Dominic Owusu, Head of the Currency Management Department at the Bank of Ghana.

Speaking at the official launch of the Heritage Series banknotes at the Bank Square in Accra on Thursday, November 12, 2026, Mr. Owusu explained that the design was developed to establish a connection between the personalities honored on the front of the notes and the institutions or symbols associated with their contributions.

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He specifically identified Achimota School's historical relationship with Dr. James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey as a major reason for its inclusion.

"And because we want to have a connection between the front and the back of the notes, we look at what Kwegyir Aggrey is connected with. And you all tell me that Kwegyir Aggrey is connected with Achimota School," he said.

Mr Owusu further explained that the selection was not accidental, revealing that the Bank of Ghana undertook extensive consultations before settling on the institution.

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According to him, the school was chosen after careful consideration of its history, educational structure, and ability to represent a broad range of learners.

"It wasn't chosen by mistake. A lot of thinking went into it with the management of the Bank of Ghana, with a number of stakeholders, to make sure that we look for a mixed school and a school that has a primary and a secondary and has everyone in it," he added.

The inclusion of Achimota School on the Heritage Series banknotes marks a significant moment in the institution's history, bringing its longstanding educational legacy into the national currency.

It also highlights the historical connection between the school and Dr Kwegyir Aggrey, whose contribution to education remains an important part of Ghana's history.