Pot-bellies on campus: A report on Obesity among masters
Monday, June 4, 2007
We fear some Prempeh masters may not live to be 100, if they don't change their attitudes regarding weight gain.
This European man who taught at Prempeh in the 1950s recently visited Sofoline. In his nineties, he's fitter than some
Prempeh masters in their fifties.
Our school field is the largest in Kumasi, providing an excellent facility for one who wants to keep in shape.
A simple walk to and around the field a few times in a day will be sufficient to keep our masters fit and healthy.
But none of the teaching staff practices this.
If a master develops edema (swelling) of the lower extremities as a result of obesity, they will blame it on the
supernatural powers of a student they penalized -- what is called juju. But juju has little to do with poor fitness.
In fact, if a recent graduate visits Sofoline, there is a chance that he may not recognise his former teacher. Not only does the
protruberant abdomen forbids such a recognition, but other enlarged features -- particularly the cheeks -- make that task even harder.
Because motivation is required in matters of this magnitude, this should be brought to the Headmaster's sphere of influence.
If they are to live a very productive life and be able to influence the lives and careers of thousands of future leaders, then
incorporating some of the vital ideas and philosophies of Prof. Agyemang Badu Akosa is imperative, for there is nothing elitist about owning
a potbelly!
