How Student Misconduct Inspired Mfantsipim's Iconic Red-and-Black Uniform

As Mfantsipim School marks its 150th anniversary in 2026, the institution's distinctive red-and-black striped uniform has become synonymous with the celebrations—a far cry from the circumstances that prompted its creation nearly two decades ago.

The story behind the uniform change began not with deliberate planning or careful design, but with the notorious behaviour of some students. What started as a practical solution to a disciplinary problem has since become a cherished symbol of the school's identity.

The Problem: Mistaken Identity

Before 2009, Mfantsipim students—popularly known as Kwabotwe boys—wore peach tops and khaki shorts. The trouble was that CSI, a school located near Mfantsipim, had a nearly identical uniform. This resemblance created an unexpected challenge: some Mfantsipim students would sneak out of school without permission, and when caught in town, they would deny being Mfantsipim students, claiming instead that they attended CSI .

The deception was difficult to disprove. With two schools sharing such similar attire, authorities could not easily distinguish students from one institution from those of the other.

The Solution: A Uniform That Could Not Be Denied

To resolve the issue, the then Headmaster, Mr. Kwame Meizar Egya, approached the school's Art Department and tasked it with designing a new uniform that would clearly distinguish Mfantsipim students from their neighbours .

Ishmael Mcanslan Mensah, a graphic design teacher and old boy of the school, collaborated with students to develop several design options. After reviewing the proposals, the committee responsible for selecting the new uniform settled on the now-iconic red-and-black striped shirt, paired with black shorts .

That design has since become the distinctive uniform proudly worn by Mfantsipim boys today.

A Deeper Symbolism

According to Mr. Egya, the uniform was deliberately designed to pay homage to the school's founding fathers, whose struggles and contributions led to the establishment of the institution in 1876 .

The red colour represents the blood shed by the founding fathers—figures such as Messrs. Kwabena Sekyi and John Mensah Sarbah, as well as Mr. J.C. Brown—while black honours the Black race . What began as a response to student misconduct was transformed into a garment of historical memory and pride.

From Notoriety to Pride

Today, the uniform effortlessly distinguishes Mfantsipim students and has become so precious that it is synonymous with the school's 150th anniversary celebrations. Jokingly known as "Kotokuraba AC Milan" for its striking resemblance to the Italian football club's colours, the uniform has evolved from a pragmatic fix into a badge of identity that students wear with pride.

The story of Mfantsipim's uniform is a reminder that institutions are shaped as much by their responses to challenge as by their grand designs. A problem born of indiscipline produced a symbol that now embodies the school's heritage—and, fittingly, the anniversary celebrations themselves.