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Celebrating Our Jubilee

20

Years of Excellence

"Two Decades of Excellence – Innovating for the Future"

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The Origin Story

The History of CJ Schools

Before the grand celebrations, we must revisit the vision. The story of CJ Schools is one of divine direction and humble beginnings. Pastor Mrs. Cynthia Dellah-Gu recalls that the passion for education was sparked by a personal need. Working at a hotel with a 3-month-old son, she struggled to find adequate childcare. After praying with her husband, Rev. James Dellah-Gu, she had a dream where she was changing diapers—a sign to create a haven for mothers and children.

It began in a modest shop in Kubini, filled with teddy bears. Locals thought it was a toy store, but inside, a legacy of "Care Beyond Compare" was being built. Today, we celebrate 20 years of that vision.

WEEK 1: THE FOUNDATION
Day 1 • Mon, Jan 12

Grand Launch & Street Parade

Parade

The 20th Anniversary celebration of CJ Schools officially commenced with a resounding "Grand Launch" that shook the streets of our local communities. This was not merely an event; it was the proclamation of a legacy that began in 2006. The day kicked off with a vibrant Street Parade through the Branch Local Areas, where students, staff, and parents—clad in the stunning 20th Anniversary cloth—marched in unison. The energy was palpable as the community witnessed the growth of what was once a small seed sown in faith.

Following the parade, the families gathered at the School Grounds for a solemn Opening Ceremony. Here, the "Torch of Excellence" was metaphorically lit, symbolizing the light of knowledge CJ Schools has provided for two decades. The ceremony set the spiritual tone for the festival, grounding our celebration in gratitude. [cite_start]It was a day of high spirits, music, and the shared joy of a community that has weathered challenges to become a beacon of Montessori and Cambridge excellence in Accra[cite: 1, 2].

Day 2 • Tue, Jan 13

Rehearsals & Preparations

Rehearsals

Excellence is never an accident; it is the result of high intention and sincere effort. Day 2 was dedicated entirely to the rigors of preparation. Across all our campuses—Kotobabi (Main & Annex), Tantra Hills, and Adenta—the sounds of drums, choirs, and drama troupes filled the air. [cite_start]This "Rehearsals Day" was crucial for refining the performances that would dazzle our guests later in the week[cite: 2].

Teachers and students worked side-by-side, embodying the dedication that our CEO, Mrs. Dellah-Gu, often speaks of—where staff work tirelessly from "6am to 6pm" without complaint to ensure the best for the children. The Tantra Hills choreography team practiced their intricate cultural steps, while the Main Branch choir perfected their harmonies for the Thanksgiving service. It was a day that showcased the discipline ingrained in every CJ student: the understanding that the spotlight is earned through the sweat of rehearsal.

Day 3 • Wed, Jan 14

History Day: The Origin Story

History Day

History Day was an emotional journey into the heart of CJ Schools. The entire school community gathered to watch a documentary that chronicled our humble beginnings. The story told was one of divine intervention: Pastor Mrs. Cynthia Dellah-Gu, working in a hotel and struggling to find care for her 3-month-old son, had a dream where she was changing diapers. [cite_start]Interpreting this as a calling, she and Rev. James Dellah-Gu opened "CJ Mothercare" in a small shop on the first floor of a building in Kubini [cite: 90-93].

The documentary revealed fascinating details: the first location had no playground, forcing staff to lock the doors for safety, and was so filled with teddy bears that locals mistook it for a toy shop! Yet, the "Care Beyond Compare" was so evident that parents begged them to continue into primary education. A highlight of the day was the interview with Mrs. Rhoda Tay, our Head Administrator, who shared her personal journey of growth alongside the school. [cite_start]It was a powerful reminder to "do not despise small beginnings" [cite: 97-100].

Day 4 • Thu, Jan 15

Academics Day

Quiz Competition

True to our core mission of educational excellence, Day 4 was a celebration of intellectual rigor. Hosted at the Havilah campus, "Academics Day" featured a fierce Math and Science Quiz that tested the sharpest minds from all branches. Students demonstrated the critical thinking skills fostered by our Cambridge curriculum, tackling complex problems that went far beyond the "chew, pour, pass" method of learning.

Simultaneously, a Science Fair allowed students to display practical inventions, from simple robotics to environmental solutions. Mrs. Dellah-Gu has always emphasized that CJ Schools aims to make learning relevant through application, not just rote memorization. This day proved that our students are not just learners but future innovators, ready to solve real-world problems. The atmosphere was charged with competitive academic spirit, yet underpinned by the camaraderie of shared learning.

Day 5 • Fri, Jan 16

Alumni Legacy Day

Alumni

The fruits of 20 years returned home on Alumni Legacy Day. We welcomed back former students who have now grown into university graduates, engineers, and young professionals. As Mrs. Dellah-Gu fondly noted in her interview, seeing her former "babies" now grown with beards and careers is a "tremendous" feeling that makes her feel like a proud grandmother!.

The event included a Career Fair where alumni shared insights into various professions with current students, bridging the gap between school and the workforce. In the "Alumni Interviews" segment, past Head Boys and Girls credited the discipline, the "memory verses," and the holistic training at CJ Schools for their success in the wider world. It was a heartwarming reunion that reinforced the lifelong bond of the CJ family and inspired current students to aim high.

Day 6 • Sat, Jan 17

Family & Fun Day

Cooking Comp

Hosted at Havilah, this was a day of pure joy designed to strengthen the bond between home and school. The highlight was undoubtedly the Parents' Cooking Competition. Four brave parents battled for culinary supremacy, presenting dishes like Jollof Rice, Spaghetti, and Kenkey. However, the grand prize went to the parent who prepared a stunning "Fried Rice with Chicken & Salad." The reward? [cite_start]A full one-semester scholarship for their child! [cite: 38, 49-50].

The fun didn't stop there. Families engaged in spirited Musical Chairs, dancing competitions that healed souls with laughter, and intellectual games like "Riddle Riddle." Generous refreshments were provided by the CEO, and the day ended with a communal feast where everyone shared the competition dishes. [cite_start]It was a vivid demonstration that CJ Schools is more than an institution; it is a family [cite: 41-48, 52-53].

WEEK 2: INNOVATION
Day 8 & 9 • Jan 19-20

Innovation & Talent Days

Innovation

As we moved into Week 2, the focus shifted to "Innovating for the Future." Split across two days and two campuses, the Innovation Days showcased the creative potential of our students. Day 8 at Kotobabi (Havilah) featured exhibitions in Science and Technology, where students presented solutions for a sustainable future. Day 9 moved to the Tantra Hills Branch—our "last born" campus—where younger students displayed creative arts and foundational STEM projects.

These days were a direct reflection of the school's vision to expand into Senior High School and University education. The exhibits proved that our students are being groomed not just to participate in the future, but to shape it. From robotics to recycled art, the creativity on display was a testament to the Cambridge system's emphasis on practical application over theoretical knowledge.

Day 10 • Wed, Jan 21

Music & Fashion Day

Fashion Show

A spectacle of culture and rhythm! The Main Branch hosted a dazzling fashion show that celebrated diversity. The event kicked off with a heartwarming modeling display by the Tantra Hills Pre-School pupils, who were personally gifted by the CEO for their confidence. The runway featured students showcasing Casual, Corporate, and Traditional wear with professional poise.

While the Main and Annex branches beautifully represented local Akan, Ewe, and Ga cultures, the Tantra Hills Branch stole the show with a surprise Indian Cultural Display, complete with authentic attire and dance movements. The Main Branch eventually won the overall prize for their excellence in Costume and Choir, but the day was a victory for cultural appreciation. [cite_start]The event concluded with a high-energy drill by the Main School Cadet Group, showcasing the discipline that balances our creativity [cite: 20-25].

Day 11 • Thu, Jan 22

Community Engagement

Community

CJ Schools believes in the motto "Learn to Lead," and leadership involves service. Day 11 was dedicated to giving back to the society that has supported us for 20 years. [cite_start]Held at the School Grounds, the Community Engagement day featured Health and Civic talks designed to educate both students and the local community on vital issues[cite: 4].

This day reinforced the holistic nature of our education. By engaging with health professionals and civic leaders, our students learned that their education carries a responsibility to improve the lives of others. It was a quiet but powerful day of reflection and service, grounding the festive celebrations in a sense of civic duty and community welfare.

Day 12 • Fri, Jan 23

Sports Festival

Elwak Stadium

The competitive spirit moved to the Elwak Stadium for our grand Sports Festival. Houses competed in Track & Field events, Football, and novelty races. As Mrs. Dellah-Gu fondly recalled in her interview, the spirit of CJ is so strong that in previous years, they even bussed "3-month-old babies" to the stadium to be part of the family!.

This year was no different, with the entire school community—from Creche to JHS—cheering for their houses. The atmosphere was electric, filled with chants, songs, and the thunder of running feet. Sports Day is a crucial part of our curriculum, teaching resilience, teamwork, and the grace to handle both victory and defeat. It was a day of high energy and unforgettable memories.

Day 13 • Sat, Jan 24

Gala & Awards Night

Gala Dinner

An evening of elegance and gratitude held at Havilah. The Gala & Awards Night was dedicated to the pillars of our institution—the staff. We honored long-serving members like "Uncle Ben," "Auntie Becky," and "Auntie Lola," who have been with us through thick and thin. The CEO noted in her interview that CJ staff are unique because they often work from "6am to 6pm" without vacation during the preschool years, a sacrifice that has built the school's reputation.

It was a formal dinner filled with speeches, fine dining, and emotional tributes. Alumni and staff mingled, sharing stories of the past two decades. This night was a reminder that while buildings and curriculums are important, it is the *people* of CJ Schools who make it a home.

Day 14 • Sun, Jan 25

Grand Thanksgiving Service

Thanksgiving

We concluded the festival exactly where we started: with God. Held at the ATTC Hall (or Ghana Telecom), the Grand Thanksgiving Service was a time of intense praise and worship. The entire CJ family united to cut the 20th Anniversary Cake, symbolizing the sweetness of God's grace over the years.

Prayers were offered for the next chapter of CJ Schools—the vision for a Senior High School and University. As the choir sang and parents danced, it was clear that the "small beginning" in a shop with teddy bears had blossomed into a mighty oak. [cite_start]We looked back with gratitude and looked forward with faith, ready to "Learn and Lead" for another twenty years[cite: 4].