The alumni of St. Patrick’s Grammar School (SPACO), Bashorun, Ibadan, from the graduating class of 1981, reunited to give back to their alma mater.
On Tuesday, the school premises witnessed a memorable event as the 1981 set presented a valuable donation comprising books, agricultural tools, and sanitation materials worth millions of naira.
The occasion, attended by both former and current students, was spearheaded by Mr. Kayode Odeyale, the president of the 1981 set. Expressing their profound motivation behind the donation, Odeyale emphasized their collective aspiration to elevate the educational standard of their beloved school.
“We are presenting books recommended by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) along with agricultural and sanitation tools to our alma mater,” stated Odeyale. “Our desire to impact our school positively stems from the understanding that education is not just a gateway to personal success but also a bulwark against societal ills.”
The timing of the donation, coinciding with St. Patrick’s month and the Lent and Easter celebrations, symbolizes the spirit of compassion and goodwill towards humanity.
Odeyale seized the moment to underscore the pivotal role education plays in fostering a prosperous and cohesive society, urging both federal and state governments to allocate more resources to educational development.
In addition to the material contributions, the 1981 set announced plans to reward outstanding students at the end of the academic session, further incentivizing academic excellence.
Commending the alumni’s initiative, Professor Salihu Adelabu, the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, hailed the event as a testament to the enduring bond between the school, its alumni, and the commitment to advancing education and hygiene standards.
“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the alumni association for their generous donation,” remarked Professor Adelabu. “Initiatives such as this are pivotal in supporting government efforts towards ensuring universal access to quality education.”
Echoing the sentiment of gratitude, the school principal, Mr. Tope Aderounmu, pledged to ensure the judicious utilization of the resources provided, affirming their commitment to fostering a conducive learning environment for current and future generations of students.
The altruistic gesture of the SPACO alumni serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reaffirming the transformative power of education and collective action in building a brighter future for generations to come.
