Old students associations should be used as a fulcrum for developments rather than as a parallel or rival organisation in the management of their alma mater, according to a community leader, Chief Ayodele Adeyemo.
At the grand finale of the 60th Anniversary celebration of Iwo Grammar School, Iwo, Osun State, Dr. Adeyemo said that old students should remain connected, network with one another, and maintain a bonded relationship, adding that the association should partner and support the management of their former school with a primary goal of advancing and developing the school.
Adeyemo, who was one of the pioneer set of students of the school to graduate in 1969, was the Father of the Day at the occasion.
The media management expert highlighted some out of the myriads of problems facing the education sector. These, he said, included inadequate teaching aids, science equipment and other facilities; insufficient classrooms, furniture, stationery, and staff offices; shortage of teaching staff and support staff; and truancy by both teachers and students resulting in general indiscipline and lawlessness in many schools.
While challenging the old students, Adeyemo said that the parlous situation in many schools underscores the necessity for external intervention and collaborative responses, especially by parents and former students. To this end, he said that the contributions of old students either as individuals or groups should be taken as an all-generation affairs.
He urged the Iwo Grammar School Alumni Association (IGSAA) to remain focused, and shun petty jealousies and distractions. As men and women with enormous clouts, he admonished that they should bring their influences to play in redeeming both the structures and academic performance of the current students at all levels.
Adeyemo, who was honoured with ‘Pillar of Iwo Grammar School’ award, showered encomium on the past and present leaderships of Old Students Association of the school; and individuals for their passion and commitment to give the school a befitting look.
“It is my hope that the level of enthusiasm and conviviality that accompanied this 60th Founders’ Day anniversary will be harnessed and exploited to strengthen the Alumni Association. Going round the school after some 55 years that I passed out here (1969 precisely), my feelings are not only nostalgic but emotional. Our involvements as old students become more compelling to work together in unity, common purpose, and unison. It is when we do this that we can elevate our Alma mater to a comparatively enviable height in line with our common and individual lifetime philosophy of Itesiwaju, our philosophical school motto”, he further said.
The Chairman of the occasion, Engr. Yakeen Oyewole Ajagbe, who is also a foundation student, advised the alumni not to undermine or usurp the powers of the Principal and the Board of Governors. Rather, the association should be seen as working along with the management of the school to ensure its progress and acceptable public image
Ajagbe, who is a marine engineer based in Liverpool, England, advised that Trustees and the Executive of the association to adhere to the objectives of the association. “The progress and good name of the school should be a priority. The role of the association should not be inimical to the progress of the school”, Ajagbe advised.
IGSAA’s National President, Mr. Oladosu Akinyinka recognised the monumental efforts of his predecessors who performed their bits as posterity and history would not forget them. He called on all old students to “let us reflect on the journey that has brought us here and the countless triumphs that lie ahead. it has been 60 years of academic distinction, lifelong friendships, and enduring pride in our alma mater”.
Other awardees included Chief Adunade Amoo as ‘Father of Iwo Grammar School’, and Chief (Mrs.) Adeola Ajala as ‘Mother of Iwo Grammar School’.
Prominent personalities at the occasion included Mrs. Oyinkanola Adeyanju (nee Dairo), Prof. Leke Ogunwale, Oba M. Tijani, all past teachers. The royal presence the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba AbdulRasheed Adewale Akanbi, Telu I, also an old student, added royal colour to the event.
Prominent old students who also graced the occasion included Hon. Justice Wasiu Dejo Akanbi (rtd.); and
Major General Abiodun Amoo (rtd.).
