The year group presented 60 metal pieces of furniture, comprising 40 benches and 20 tables, expected to accommodate 200 students.

In a speech delivered on his behalf at the presentation, the Chairman of the Year Group Fundraising Committee, Frank Arko-Tharkor, said that the presentation was part of the St James Seminary and SHS Dining Hall Refurbishment project initiated by the year group to give the facility a facelift.

He said the presentation signalled the completion of the first stage of the three-phase dining hall refurbishment project.

Mr Arko-Tharkor explained that the project became a necessity because of the poor state of the dining hall.

He said there was inadequate furniture, compelling students to stand or squat to take their meals, while others dined outside the dining hall.

Mr Arko-Tharkor said that phase one of the project had helped resolve the students' frustrations and restored the dining hall's dignity.

This milestone signifies not only the delivery of furniture but also the revival of a spirit of service, gratitude and unity that continues to connect us as proud sons of this great institution," he said.

He explained that phase two of the project would address critical floor repairs and structural issues, while phase three would focus on painting and beautifying the space to create a serene environment, adding that the year group remained steadfast in their resolve to complete the remaining phases.

Mr Arko-Tharkor explained that the discipline, values and academic excellence instilled in them during their formative years (1993 to 1996) laid the foundation for the men they had become and that the year group considered it a duty rather than a favour.

"To the students, know that you are not forgotten. We believe in your potential and are investing in your environment so that you can thrive even more than we did," he said.

Mr Arko-Tharkor pledged their dedication to preserve and enhance the legacy of their alma mater.

The Rector of the school, Rev. Fr Felix Taah, said the shortage of furniture in the dining hall was a burden on management, explaining that the presentation had provided them with relief.

He appealed to them to continue phases two and three of the project after completing the first phase.

Rev. Fr Taah said the 2000 Year Group had promised to build an administration block for the school, while the 2002 Year batch had also planned to establish a market centre for food vendors to serve students.

He appealed to the public to help the school build an assembly hall, dormitories, a science laboratory, and an ironing shade for the students to iron their uniforms.

He also urged institutions, organisations, and individuals to support the school with classroom furniture and to repair broken windows and doors to improve teaching and learning.

The Dining Hall Master, Emmanuel Gyan, expressed his gratitude for their sacrifices in donating to the school.

He said the presentation would help eliminate the huge furniture shortfall in the school and promised to ensure regular maintenance of the furniture.

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