Image caption: Aale Okelerin Oba Amao laying the foundation
School of Science Ogbomoso alumni begin multi million naira laboratory
Olanrewaju OKE
The alumni body of School of Science, Ogbomoso, Oyo state, Wednesday laid the foundation of a new multipurpose laboratory estimated to gulp millions in naira.
President of the association, Mr. Tomi Ogundare, in his address, asserted the old students embarked on the project to further demonstrate their commitment to the academic and infrastructural development of their alma mater so as to inspire current students towards similar goal in the future.
Mr. Ogundare informed that before deciding on the project the authorities of the school was liaised with saying the construction of a standard, multipurpose laboratory for chemistry, biology and physics practicals, was selected out of the four crucial needs listed.
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While commending teachers and principals (present and past) of the 29 year old school for the sustained academic excellence as exemplified by the impressive 2023 WAEC result, Ogundare stressed, “This new laboratory will make teaching and learning practical more fun, it will improve their memory and critical thinking.”
He called on other alumni who have not, to key in into the programmes of the association, adding, “We need each set to pool their monies together” as he assured on transparency, “We will find a way to acknowledge those who support us. We will take all steps possible to ensure the records of those who support these projects are deliberately preserved. We will have a donor’s list. We will have a marble wall. we want the current students to aspire to do much more when they grow up.”
He emphasized the desire of the body to commission the building in 2024 when the school will mark its thirtieth anniversary.
Also speaking, Aale of Okelerin, Ogbomoso, Oba Samuel Babatunde Amao, who is a trustee of the association, appreciated the alumni urging those yet to be part of its activities to support.
Dr. Dele Afolabi, chairman of the School Governing Board, appealed to parents and guardians to partner in the project to ensure its early completion while charging old students, “You have been given (by the school), it is time you give back.”
Mrs. Bose Olabode, Ogbomoso Zonal Inspector of Education; Sheikh Alimi, another member of the board of trustees; Mr. Adeyi Adekunle, chairman, Parent Teacher Association; and other speakers at the groundbreaking event hailed the alumni charging them to ensure the completion of the project.
Former principals and staff, representatives of the Oyo state ministry of education, old students all graced the occasion to be part of history making.
Acknowledging the exemplary gesture of the alumni, the vice principal, Mr. Thomas Adisa, said, “We are grateful to the alumni of this noble school who thought it prudent to initiate this wonderful project. It will immensely benefit this school and improve academic performance significantly.”
Adisa, who is acting principal, added, “We are grateful for the participation of members of the alumni and the significant presence of Aale of Okelerin, Oba Samuel Babatunde Amao, during the groundbreaking ceremony. Their unwavering support and commitment to education have been instrumental in making this project a reality.”
The School of Science Ogbomoso, a science-focussed government-owned school, was established in 1994 and the first set of students graduated in 1997.
The school has produced many scientists and professionals who are contributing meaningfully to the development of society in Nigeria and many parts of the world.