‘You started well you ended well,’ family, colleagues, friends hail as Akande retires as principal
Femi OGUNLANA
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Shout of joy filled the auditorium August 1 as Mrs. Iyabo Theresa Akande was pulled out of the chalk and talk profession in a most glamorous fashion. Mrs. Akande spent thirty years in the profession having been employed in 1994 but retired statutorily on account of clocking sixty years (August 13).
The celebrant was appointed a principal shortly before her retirement after serving as vice principal at Owode Community Grammar School (OCGS), Ogbomoso, for five years.
The retirement service at Estate Baptist Church, Oyo State (Ajilete) Housing Estate, Oke-Owode, was well attended with the auditorium filled to capacity with many others finding seats outside.
Rev’d. Dr. S.A. Asamu, who recently retired as pastor of the church, in his sermon titled, “A joyous retirement,” with text from Psalm 34: 1-20 and Psalm 103: 1-5, noted retirement is the “most enjoyable part of one’s life,” that should be looked forward “to eagerly and prepare for. We are not to be afraid of retirement, it is part of God’s plan for our life.”
Rev’d Asamu said a joyous retirement “calls for a heart of thankfulness,” because of the victories attained and hazards overcome during the course of service.
He highlighted keys to a joyful retirement including creating time for God, meditating on God’s word, be heavenly focused, taking proper care of one’s health, balance diet, daily exercise, doing good, avoiding stressful jobs and reducing one’s expenses.
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The cleric assured those who worked diligently while in service that rewards are certain to locate them from God, government, lives impacted and friends.
He charged those whose retirement is on the way to start preparation early, save while in service, invest in land, pay house rent to oneself on personal house and so on, while urging them to “have unshakable faith in God” in all their ways.”
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The Head of Zone Ogbomoso TESCOM zonal office, Prince Subomi Adedoyin, whom the celebrant worked under as vice principal at OCGS, described her as a very trustworthy officer “especially in the area of finance,” adding “she is humble, honest, respectful and charismatic.”
He rejoiced she ended safely, “We are glad that after 30 years she has landed safely.”
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Comrade Dayo Ajala, principal of OCGS, in his welcome address, expressed joy remarking an officer who worked meritoriously and diligently was retiring.
“Another day of joy when history is made is upon us. It is a watershed moment particularly in the family of Mama Theresa Akande, who is being pulled today from the teaching profession after 30 years of toiling, and helping to mould future generations. This is a task I can vouch she did meritoriously and exceptionally. Because of her devotion and dedication I am certain a peaceful post service year awaits her.”
This is as Comrade Ajala urged the celebrant “to imbibe the many lessons and admonitions that will be imparted today. We wish her blissful retirement.”
Many other speakers attested to her good naturedness, her sterling attributes and caring character while wishing her a happy retirement.
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The celebrant expressed gratitude to “God, family, colleagues at work, the church and all who made the event a resounding success.”
The programme also featured displays by choirs, cultural troupes, mimicry, and many more exciting events, capped with entertainment of guests.
