Nyame N’Adom – “By the Grace of God”.

This is the latest phrase I managed to learn during my most recent visit to the wonderful school in Ghana where I did some voluntary teaching ten years ago.

The headmistress’s ‘house help’ tries to teach me a little of the ‘native tongue’ every time I stay there, but without much success. She has limited English and works hard at improving it, but she is so keen to help me with my pathetic attempts to learn their language.

This phrase encapsulates how they live in this large school community of more than 1,200 young women students aged 16 to 19 and total staff (teaching and non-teaching) of around 150, where everything good that happens – from health, water, food, safe travelling, to success in examinations or on the sports field – is always attributed to “God’s Grace”.

Nothing is taken for granted, nor is any personal credit taken for what happens, but “Thanks” always follows!

There is nothing sanctimonious about these references to God but it seems to be a way of life in this community. Prayer simply comes naturally to students and staff alike. Not everyone, of course, but if there is a problem there is always someone offering prayer in a very spontaneous way!

They expect to get help to cope with all situations and seem to receive it. The girls take pride in their achievements but only when God’s help has been acknowledged. This makes for a very positive, optimistic atmosphere around the school where discipline, leading to self discipline, is remarkable.

This is largely administered by a team of prefects, under the direction of committed staff, and is recognised as the only way to make the most of the opportunities offered by the school in the limited time available. The girls are so grateful for the education offered and know that there is great pressure for places.

The school is very successful and has survived countless problems since its foundation in 1836, which gives even more grounds for gratitude.

So, from the headmistress’s report on speech day, to the daily reply in answer to “Hello, how are you?”, Nyame N’Adom features greatly in any language!

Kath Larrad