For many, the homage given is posthumous because they have already passed away, but for others, like Father Benjamin, they were able to participate in the inauguration of this exhibit and to receive the recognition conferred by the authorities and the representatives of different social sectors of Panama.
The exhibit, which brings together these 100 illustrious Panamanians noted for their exemplary work in their various professions and service to society, invites the citizens to visit the exhibit with an emotion-filled message: “Only once in your life, you will be able to look at your Fatherland from within!”
After the official opening of the exhibit, all those present were invited to see the various exhibits and to know the story and achievements of the illustrious Panamanians whom they wanted to give recognition.
In Community
Fr. Benjamin Ayechu was accompanied by members of the Recollect community of Colegio San Agustin, namely, Fathers José María Aguerri and Francisco Lopeandía and by a personnel from Saint Luke the Evangelist Parish where he is presently exercising his pastoral ministry.
In the caption, which recounts the achievements of this Augustinian Recollect that made him part of the roster of illustrious Panamanians, his contributions to the field of education, where he has dedicated himself greatly in service of the Panamanian society, were highlighted.
Ricardo Martineli, president of the Republic, graced the said event. Since 1954
Father Benjamin came to Panama in 1954, and for more than fifty years, he has worked for the foundation of Colegio San Agustin. He became the rector of the said school in 1959. It was also within this same year that Father Bernardino Garcia opened the night class, which was recognized as the first formal basic literacy school in the country. He founded as well the Fathers of Catholic Schools Federation.
He also dreamed of a Catholic University in Panama and it came to realization on May 20, 1965. He became the first president of the Universidad Santa María la Antigua, commonly known as USMA.
For all this, Father Benjamin Ayechu, who at present is already 86 years old and continues to work in the Parish of Saint Luke the Evangelist, deserves to be part of the roster of one-hundred illustrious Panamanians to whom the society owe gratitude.