GHANASCO vs TAMASCO: Haruna Iddrisu Nudges Mahama and Lordina for Taking Inspiration From His School
- Haruna Iddrisu has playfully addressed the long-standing rivalry between Tamasco and Ghanasco
- The minister playfully nudged President John Mahama and First Lady Lordina about which was superior
- President Mahama also shared throwback photos of himself from his early days as a Ghanasco student
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The spirited rivalry between Ghanasco and Tamasco has resurfaced with full force.
Source: Twitter
The revived school banter began when the Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for Tamale South took the stage during Ghana Senior High School’s (Ghanasco) 65th anniversary celebration.
Stepping into the domain of a rival school, Haruna Iddrisu, himself a proud old student of Tamale Senior High School (Tamasco), approached the podium with humour and confidence.
Haruna Iddrisu fuels TAMASCO–GHANASCO rivalry
Surrounded by his 'rivals', he light-heartedly reminded the audience that his school had always served as a source of inspiration for many others in the northern region.
He spoke with respect, pride and friendly rivalry, emphasising that although he stood on the grounds of an opposing school, he would not shy away from acknowledging Tamasco's influence.
His remarks immediately drew laughter, applause and cheers.
“It is not a comfortable feat for a Tamascan to be surrounded by Ghanasco students, but may Tamasco continue to inspire Ghanascans to rise even higher.”
He continued, adding:
"So Ghanasco, celebrate the First Lady, celebrate the First Gentleman, celebrate Naa Bashiru, celebrate Abu Gyinapo, and celebrate Suhhuni, but be inspired by Tamasco to do more," he said
His remarks added a joyful spark to the already lively celebration, reflecting the long-standing friendly rivalry that has shaped student pride and educational competition in Tamale for decades.
The event, held on November 22, brought together distinguished personalities, alumni and proud supporters of the school, including President Mahama and First Lady Lordina, both proud products of Ghanasco.
Watch the TikTok video below:
Throwback photos of young Mahama at Ghanasco
Adding to the excitement, President Mahama shared rare throwback photographs of himself from his early school days at Ghanasco, during his time as a Form One student.
The pictures, posted earlier, captured a young Mahama standing in the school’s surroundings, symbolic of his humble beginnings and the strong foundation the school provided him.
His reflections on his past highlighted the significance of Ghanasco in shaping leaders who now play prominent roles in Ghana’s development.
First Lady lunches Ghanasco’s 65th anniversary
Earlier in May 2025, First Lady Lordina Mahama formally launched the school’s 65th anniversary celebration.
During the launch, she encouraged old students, staff, and current students to use the occasion to recommit to the school’s growth.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Alhassan Suhuyini, John Jinapor, Samuel Basintale Amadu, and Minister Iddrisu.
Source: UGC
Ghanasco’s legacy and achievements
Founded in 1960 by Ghana's first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Ghanasco began as 'Ghana College' with just 70 male students.
Today, it boasts over 4,400 students, with six academic programmes and a long list of notable alumni.
Among its most celebrated former students are:
- President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama
- First Lady, Lordina Mahama
- Alhaji Alhassan Andani, Former Managing Director of Stanbic Bank Ghana
- Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Awal, Former Minister for Business Development
- John Jinapor, Minister for Energy and Green Transition
- Abedi Pele, Legendary Ghanaian footballer
- Kwame Ayew, Legendary Ghanaian footballer
- Prof. Bashiru Saeed, Vice Chancellor of Tamale Technical University
- Professor Alidu Mahama Seidu, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central
Despite its strong legacy, the school still faces infrastructure challenges, including inadequate classrooms and the absence of an assembly hall.
Lordina Mahama supports Ghanasco with 102 dual-desks
YEN.com.gh also previously reported that Lordina Mahama had fulfilled her promise to donate 102 dual desks to Ghanasco, her alma mater.
The furniture was presented by the Mayor of Tamale, Abubakari Adam Takoro, who expressed gratitude at the support the First Lady had shown.
Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
