The Desert Pastures International School has marked a quarter of a century of excellence, impact, and unwavering commitment to Christian education in the Upper East Region.

The occasion, held at the forecourt of the school, saw invited dignitaries and parents in attendance to grace the event.

In her address, the Director of the school, Reverend Mrs. Rosemond Anaba, indicated that the school was born out of her desire for high-quality, carefully structured, and, above all, Christ-centered education.

She reminisced about how the school started from a very humble beginning with a staff of four, including a headteacher who doubled as both the headmaster and a teacher for a while.

She added that, fast forward 25 years, the school has grown to a staff strength of 116.

The director noted that as a Christian educational institution, the school aims to develop learners holistically.

She also emphasized the school's keen interest in implementing mobile education, which would equip students to face future challenges.

Mrs. Rosemond Anaba pointed out that in addition to the curriculum, the school engages children in other enrichment programs that equip them with the knowledge to live healthy and responsible lives.

"Our Monday devotional time and life lessons are the backbone of this institution," she said. "Many alumni and parents have given testimonies about the positive impact of these lessons."

Reverend Mrs. Anaba mentioned that the school has received numerous accolades in various fields, with the most recent being one of their former students who bagged a number of awards at the university.

"One of our students recently graduated from the University of Health and Allied Sciences, sweeping 8 out of 12 awards," she said.

Reverend Mrs. Rosemond Anaba indicated that the school has made significant contributions to the community in terms of development and outreach.

"Some of these include donations to hospitals and prisons on a consistent basis," she noted.

The director spoke about how students of the school adopted the Paediatric Ward of the Bolga Regional Hospital, where they organize Samaritan’s Purse donations for the children.

She called on parents to support their children when they ask for contributions for this cause.

"So, parents, if the children come asking for silver collections, it is because we remember the children who are hospitalized, and we want to say Merry Christmas to them," she appealed.

The director mentioned that they painted the playroom of the Paediatric Ward and equipped it with play tools for the children.

She concluded by stating that the school will continue to provide scholarships to brilliant but needy children in the community to ensure they complete their education without struggling.

Addressing the gathering on behalf of Reverend Eswood Anaba, the founder of the Fountain Gate International Chapel, the Executive Pastor of the Desert Pastures Church, Pastor Michael Ayikade, noted that over the years, the institution has nurtured not only the minds but also the spirits of innumerable students.

"Instilling in them a blend of academic excellence, moral values, and faith-based principles," he pointed out.

He also encouraged them to carry the torch of the school with pride, bearing in mind that they stand on the shoulders of great people and a great legacy.

Reverend Eswood Anaba expressed gratitude to the teachers and staff of the school for their continuous, impeccable impact on the lives of the children.

"To the teachers and staff, your work is sacred. Each person you teach and every prayer you utter is sowing seeds of greatness in these young lives. Your dedication is deeply appreciated," he said.

He also expressed his profound gratitude to the parents for entrusting their children to the core vision of Desert Pastures International School.

Reverend Eswood acknowledged the contribution of their strategic partners, whose benevolence helped bring the construction of the new preschool block to fruition.

He further commended the director of the school, noting that the achievements of the school would not have been realized without her significant contribution and great support.

He eventually expressed his appreciation to the Eswood Anaba Ministries, followers of KIA, Desert Pastures, Fountain Gate at large, as well as all well-wishing believers and friends.