The Great Teachers of Prempeh College

Dr. John David
A Mathematics Teacher of the 1960 & 70s

Written By Dr. Gabriel Kyerematen, O.T. '71

Dr. John David, currently professor of economics/labor and chairman of the department of social sciences at West Virginia University's Institute of Technology was perhaps Prempeh College's first Peace Corps appointee. Then Mr. John David and fondly referred to as 'John Dee', he was a most dedicated and selfless teacher who 'gave of himself'.

Mr. David was a patient, mild mannered gentleman who showed a genuine commitment to all of his students. As our math teacher, he strove earnestly to make the then 'new math' bearable through active encouragement and colorful visual aids.

His home was always an 'open house' with amanfoo streaming in and out constantly for counseling, official meetings and social functions. He did indeed break the icy and strict traditional teacher-student relationship we were used to and had been brought up with at Prempeh.

Although being 'efie nipa' (US - 'home' affiliation) was already a popular niche at Prempeh before his time, he represented to many of us our first true and close encounter with an American. He was indeed an admirable ambassador of his country. Never imposingly indoctrinating, he shared with us the basic, 'quiet' side of America's culture. Who can forget the night time 'Sing Along Prempeh' sessions where with ice tea, punch and cookies 'flowing' - a real treat for many of us at the time - and in the glow of a self lit bonfire, we rehearsed 'negro spirituals' and other american folk songs. It is no rumor that Mr. David helped or perhaps directly sponsored some amanfoo here to continue their studies.

'John Dee' deserves mention. He already, long ago, met the requirements for consideration for honorary membership into Prempeh College Teacher's Hall of Fame.