A BRIEF HISTORY OF HOLY TRINITY SECONDARY SCHOOL

Holy Trinity Secondary School, Kenema, Sierra Leone, is a prominent Catholic boys' secondary school that has played a pivotal role in the educational development of Sierra Leone. The school was established in September 1964 in the Eastern regional headquarter town of Kenema by Irish Holy Ghost Catholic missionaries, also known as Spiritans. The Catholic Bishop of Kenema Diocese is the school’s proprietor. The primary objective of the school's original founders is encapsulated in the school's melodious song: “… righteous citizens we breed and not brigands to terrorize… working for the betterment of the country that we love…”

EARLY YEARS AND FOUNDING FATHERS

The venerable Rev. Fr. S.B. O'Sullivan C.S.Sp. was one of the founding fathers and the first principal of this prestigious boys' secondary school. Over the years, he was succeeded by other Spiritan priests such as Rev. Fr. Michael Corbett C.S.Sp., Rev. Fr. Macnamara C.S.Sp., and Rev. Fr. MacMahon C.S.Sp. These book-loving holy men were pioneers in the vibrant and thriving educational culture present in the Eastern region and the country at large. No wonder alumni hold them in high esteem.

TRANSITION TO INDIGENOUS ADMINISTRATION TO DATE.

In August 1978, Mr. Peter Joseph Gogra became the first indigenous principal, succeeding Rev. Fr. MacMahon. Mr. Gogra was confirmed as the substantive principal in September 1981 and served in this capacity for nearly three decades until his passing in May 2010. Under Principal Gogra’s administration, the school saw considerable growth and development. Mr. Gogra worked alongside Mr. Septimus S. Vandi, who served as his Vice Principal. Mr. Vandi played a crucial role in the school's administration, particularly during the period when the institution was divided into Junior Secondary School (JSS) and Senior Secondary School (SSS) in 2006. With the creation of these two distinct divisions, Mr. Vandi was promoted to the role of Principal of the Junior Secondary School, while Mr. Paul J. Brima became his Vice Principal. The establishment of the JSS and SSS as separate administrations is a testament to the school's growth and development. When Mr. Peter Gogra of blessed memory was called home by his maker to rest in 2010, Mr. Mark M. Gbond, who had served as Mr. Gogra’s vice, was appointed Principal, whilst Mr. Peter J. Sandi, the current Principal of the SSS administration, was appointed Vice Principal and eventually succeeded Mr. Mark Gbondo as Principal of the Senior Secondary School (SSS). Holy Trinity Secondary School has developed substantial infrastructure over the years to accommodate its growing student population. The school operates both a Junior Secondary School (JSS) and a Senior Secondary School (SSS). The current student population stands at 23,300 pupils, a testament to the school’s significant role in the community and its ability to meet the educational needs of a large number of students. In the Junior Secondary School (JSS), Mr. Yorpoi currently serves as the Principal. One thing common to all these administrators mentioned here is their shared goal of making Holy Trinity Secondary School the great institution it is. They have all made their marks and continue to do so in many positive ways. Most importantly, during their leadership, the school continues to maintain a strong academic record with a common emphasis on discipline.

SCHOOL INFRASTRUCTURE AND DEVELOPMENT

The school has 24 classrooms for the Junior Secondary School, all housed in 15 solid concrete buildings built in the early 1960s according to the specifications laid down by experts in engineering and architecture. These classrooms provide a solid foundation for the student's education, both literally and metaphorically. At the SSS level, there are 18 classrooms, further enhancing school’s capacity to cater to a large number of pupils. The school is also well-equipped with modern educational facilities, including laboratories for the basic sciences—Physics, Chemistry, and Biology—which are essential for the academic development of students in the sciences. Other facilities include libraries and other academic resources to support student learning and development.

LEGACY AND COMMUNITY IMPACT

Holy Trinity Secondary School has had a profound impact on the educational landscape of Kenema and Sierra Leone as a whole. Its leadership, from the early days under the guidance of the Spiritan priests to the local leadership of Mr. Peter Gogra and his successors, has ensured that the school remains a beacon of educational excellence. The school's alumni, who include many successful professionals in various fields, look back on their time at Holy Trinity with fond memories. The school's enduring legacy reflects its commitment to providing quality education and shaping the future of young men in Sierra Leone. Today, Holy Trinity Secondary School continues to fulfill its mission of providing an education grounded in Catholic values while meeting the educational needs of young people in the eastern region and beyond. Through its leadership, infrastructure, and academic programs, the school remains a key institution in the region’s and the nation’s educational systems.