It was a memorable reunion recently when the 1989/ 1990 set of Ikenne Community High School, Ogun State, converged to give back to their alma mater, 35 years after leaving the school.
Members of the set came from within and outside the country to honour their school. They relieved fond memories of school days and thanked God for keeping them alive.
Chairman of the event and former teacher of the school, Olusegun Awoyomi recalled, “About 40 years ago, I alighted from the expressway. And I trekked to find my way to Ikenne Community High School. What was in my mind at that time was just to stay in the school for just six months. I was coming like any other stranger. But on entering the school, I met the principal, who felt I was a corps member. But I told him I was here to take up appointment.”
Speaking further, he added the principal asked the subject he wanted to teach and he said Physics.
“He stood up, grabbed me and said we need you here. Inwardly, I thought I was leaving in six months’ time. He couldn’t comprehend how I left university at a tender age. But he accommodated me and took me from class to class. Since 1985, I’ve never left Ikenne because of what God destined it to be.”
Specifically, Awoyemi stated there was a time he got tired of the school, but the 1989/1990 set achieved a feat which made him to stay.
He further recounted, “I would take some of them for quiz competitions and we won laurels. We won at the state and inter-state levels. I’m always happy seeing their faces. One of them sent me one million naira. Those are the things we gain by being teachers. It is heartwarming to see how you have grown and excelled.
“Your obedience, discipline and thirst for knowledge laid the foundation for the successes you have achieved in life. You have set a remarkable precedent by choosing to give back to your alma mata. Your initiative to organise this debate competition is a testament to your commitment to foster academic excellence and promoting healthy completion among the current crop of students. I commend you for this and I know that your efforts will inspire and motivate the students to strive for greatness.”
To the current students of Ikenne Community High School, he advised, “I must say that you are the beneficiary of a wonderful legacy. The 1989/1990 set has shown you the importance of hard work, dedication and the value of giving back. I urge you to take a cue from the ex-students, emulate their virtues and let their stories be a source of inspiration for you. Remember the seeds of success are sown in soil of obedience, diligence and a passion for learning.”
As for teachers, he advised, ‘keep doing whatever you are doing. Do it well. At the end of the day, it will be better for you.’
On her part, the Principal of the Senior School, Adedeji Rukayat Adebisi, enjoined the current students to emulate what their seniors have done by giving back, adding “When you give back, it is an inspiration to the younger ones wherever they go.’
Speaking in a similar vein, the Senior Prefect of the set, Omotayo Damola, enjoined the students to keep learning reminding that knowledge is power.
He also canvassed unity and cooperation among the old students to move the school forward.
“I feel wonderful to be able to see our old colleagues. My advice to other set is that we must work together as one. When there is cooperation, anything can be accomplished. The students, on their part, must keep on learning and never get tired of learning. Anywhere they are, their knowledge will always put them ahead. If they keep learning, it will be useful for them in the future.”
On her part, the Head Girl of the set, Iyabo Lawal, said the school moulded them into who they are, hence they have a responsibility to give back.
“It is always good to appreciate and give back. Besides, government cannot do it alone, so, it is the responsibility of alumni to give back. It is also a way to encourage the current set of students to aspire and make it in life, so that they, in turn, can return to give back to their alma mater.”
Lawal also advised the students on the responsible use of social media.
The Director of Socials, Olumuyiwa Lukan, also advised the students to love and respect one another, and never look down on anyone.
Another old student, Olubunmi Obafemi, advised the students to be dedicated and focused.
There was also debate competition among the senior secondary school students and quiz competition for the junior school category.
School uniforms were also distributed to some indigent students at the ceremony.
