The important roles of old students in sustaining schools development were re-echoed on Saturday, December 23, 2023 in Ibadan, Oyo state capital, during the 40th anniversary of “Comity 83” of Igbo Elerin Grammar School, Bangbola, Lagelu Local Government.
The group comprised 1983 graduating students, who have over the years, devoting and rendering their resources for the funding of infrastructure in Igbo Elerin Grammar School.
The 40th anniversary which was held at Waterfield Hotel, Akobo, Ibadan had an impressive turnout, with 63 members in attendance, drawn across the country, and provided an opportunity to share experiences. The event was also streamed online for disapora members to participate.
In its quest to making the school a model of learning, the Board of Trustees revealed plan to build a Computer Laboratory in the school to meet the standard laid down for students by West African Examination Council, to be computer literate.
In his goodwill message, the chairman at the occasion, Senator Sarafa Alli, the lawmaker representing Oyo South congratulated the association for their achievements so far.
Represented by a former lawmaker represented Ibadan South West constituency in Oyo state house of assembly, Hon. Kehinde Subair, the senator applauded the contributions of Comity 83 toward their Alma mater’s infrastructural development, urging them to continue in the same manner, as government cannot single handedly providing same in all schools.
The lawmaker, also outlined certain responsibilities that Comity 83 must do in improving quality education in their Alma mater.
These according to him did not limited to funding infrastructure, but to reach out to other colleagues and bring them on board and equally make it a need to help one another who have challenges in their respective fields or professions.
The old students during the occasion leveraged the guests and members for funding of its special project.
The “Comity 83” which is noted for enhancing quality education in Igbo Elerin Grammar School, had over the years gave back to their Alma maters by providing other social amenities within and outside the premises of the school.
Another notable achievements of the association is its engagement of one another in fostering emotional connections between the school and Igbo Elerin community, so as to provide the school with goodwill and support.
In her remarks, the BOT chairman, Chief Mrs Lola Akinjoko christened the occasion as “forty-five years of school classmates, forty years of friendship”, thanked God for the auspacious gathering of the old students, describing it as worthwhile.
Recalling the efforts of the BOT over the years in giving back to the society, Akinjoko, expressed gratitude to members who contributed immensely towards projects carried out by the association.
According to her, among the listed projects completed by the BOT include the building of modern toilets for students and teachers of their Alma mater, provision of textbooks for various classes and
branded” Comity 83 notebooks for students.
Others were supply of Covid 19 hand washing machine for the school during the endemic; annual awards for best students and teachers in various subjects; and lots of other assistance rendered to teachers and students of Igbo Elerin Grammar School.
The former managing director of Seedvest Microfinance Bank also informed the gathering that BOT rendered support to support members’ businesses, providing palliatives, when need arises and availing members, interest free loans.
Speaking specifically on the plan of the BOT to establish the school Computer Laboratory/Center, Ms Akinjoko streesed the need for assistance to achieve the capital intensive project.
“We have done many projects in the school but there’s need to do more and because it’s a huge project, we need assistance,” she said.
In his welcome address, the president of the association, Emmanuel Tunde Adetoro congratulated members on the occasion of the 40th anniversary.
Mr Adetoro also commended members for supporting one another and their Alma mater.
Speaking on the special project, the national caretaker chairman of the Association, Engr. Sunday Gbenjo stressed the importance of building and equipping a computer laboratory in Igbo Elerin Grammar School.
According to him, this becomes necessary because of the new policy from WAEC, making it compulsory for students sitting for the regional examination to be computer literate.
The association, according to Gbenjo, will convert one of the unsed classrooms for the use of the computer laboratory, adding that, “it only requires total renovation and painting to make it conducive fir learning.”
He listed, among others, 100 desktops computers, with necessary accessories, furniture and fittings needed to make the laboratory standard for use.
He therefore called for donations to make the dream comes into fruition.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to the chairman of the occasion, Senator Alli and some distinguished members who have contributed immensely to the progress of the association.
While presenting the award to the lawmaker, the association noted his contributions to national development and his commitment towards providing dividend of democracy to his constituency.
Members of the association honoured were the BOT chairman, Ms Akinjoko, Dr Sikiru Adekola Adebayo, Prof. Musediq Bashorun, Engr. Gbenjo, Dr. Timothy Popoola and Prof. Ganiyat Olayinka Olatunde.
Others were Mr Mukaila Suara, Mr Musbau Ademola Yusuff, Mr Sunday Ojo and Alhaji Abiodun Kamoldeen Akinkunle.
Among the dignatries at the occasion were Mr. Banji Alaga, Alhaji Muili Hakeem, Alhaji Wojuade Kojowe.
Others were the President of Ajorosun Club, Chief Abiola Alli, Mogaji Gbolagade Akere, Chief Ogunmola and Mr Ademola Oloko.
Popular broadcaster, Alhaji Gboyega Lawal compered the programme to the admiration of guests.
Find below more pictures at the occasion:
