On the 3rd of November 2023, the tranquil community of Boete witnessed a gathering of renowned personalities, including the Obuasi Municipal Education Director, George Alfred Koomson, and the Obuasi East District Director of Education, Kwabena Owusu-Nketiah. The occasion? To bid farewell to one of Obuasi’s most esteemed educators, Francis Oteng Mensah.
Born on October 22, 1963, Francis’s life story is a remarkable tapestry woven with threads of passion for education, commitment to excellence, and a deep-rooted love for his community. His journey from the Ekuona clan of the Asante tribe to the hallowed halls of Ghana’s educational institutions exemplifies dedication.
A Foundation Built on Legacy and Learning
Inheriting the values of hard work and determination from his father, the late P.K. Mensah, a venerated teacher, and his mother, Akua Brago, a skilled trader, Francis’s destiny in education seemed preordained. His academic journey started at Assin Fosu LA Middle School and continued at Aduman Secondary School, culminating in his graduation from Tweneboah Koduah Secondary School in 1985.
After dedicating a year to national service at the Asokwa Bricks and Tiles Factory, Francis enrolled at the Akrokerri College of Education, a decision that would impact countless lives in the years to come.
A Beacon of Light in the Classroom
Commencing his teaching journey at Akwanserem Junior High School in 1992, Francis quickly became synonymous with excellence, subsequently teaching at Independence Junior High School and Kwabrafoso Junior High School. In 2013, he was appointed the headmaster of Boete Primary ‘B,’ and in 2017, he assumed leadership of Boete MA Junior High School ‘B.’
His impact was not just limited to the classroom; his exceptional skills earned him the Best Science Teacher Award in 2001, cementing his place as one of the district’s finest educators.
Beyond the Blackboard
Francis’s life was punctuated with moments of profound personal joy and sorrow. In 1989, he married Catherine Adwoa Frema, and together, they were blessed with three children. The unfortunate passing of one child and his wife, Catherine, were somber chapters in his life. However, showcasing his characteristic resilience, Francis found love again in 2019 when he married Faustina Agyeman Duah, a fellow educator.
An Educator’s Farewell
After 36 years in the field of education, with five years in the private sector and 31 years in the public sector, Francis Oteng Mensah’s retirement marks the end of an era. The indelible mark he has left on his students and the broader educational community is a testament to his unwavering dedication.
In Kuntanase, where his story began, the legacy of Francis Oteng Mensah will be celebrated for generations. As we bid him farewell, we are reminded of the incredible power one individual can have in shaping the minds and futures of countless individuals.