On Saturday 14th October 2017 Students, Teachers, Parents and Friends of Ghana International School (GIS), embarked on a health walk to raise awareness and support for mental health in Ghana.

After registration, participants enjoyed a warm up session on the school’s volleyball court.

This year’s 46th Sponsored Walk was organized by the P.T.A. There were over 800 participants. The route covered approximately 15 kilometers, starting from Abokobi through Berekuso and finishing at Ashesi University.

The traditional annual event which has been part of the school’s activities since 1972, is held to raise funds for school projects and to support mental health in memory of two GIS students, Jason Fung and Kerry Fung who were tragically killed by mentally unstable person some three decades ago. This also forms part of our strategic goal to make an impact in various communities through service. It also provides every GIS student an opportunity to serve through in-school programmes.

Over the years, a portion of the funds raised by the school’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) through the Sponsored Walk has been donated to psychiatric institutions in Ghana. Proceeds from the last two walks were used to renovate Women’s Ward 7 of the Pantang Psychiatric Hospital, at a cost of GH¢114,000.

The renovated areas include, a dining hall, nurse’s station, observation rooms, visitors waiting area, patient’s seclusion ward and washrooms.

‍This year’s event was no different. It attracted over 800 enthusiastic participants who were eager to finish the entire 15 kilometers and break past records.

With security for the programme at an all-time high, the much anticipated event started with participants setting off at 8: 00 a.m. from Abokobi through to Berekuso.

1 KM into the race, many participants jostled for positions, while others just took it easy enjoying themselves. It was evident that there would be winners from each participating section i.e Junior School, Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary.

‍Everyone had the opportunity to relax and unwind at the Ashesi University where walkers were refreshed at the end of the walk.

We say a big thank you to everyone who participated and helped in diverse ways to make this event a success. Ayekoo and See you next year!‍