The National Old Students Association (NOSA) of Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, has passionately called for the prioritization of education as a key driver of national development. This call was made by the president of the association, Dr. Wale Okediran, during the reunion of the school’s 2002 graduating class and the donation of 300 conjoined tables and chairs to enhance the school’s educational facilities.
Represented by Mr. Lanre Fadahunsi, the association’s National Vice-President 1, Dr. Okediran stressed the critical role of education in societal transformation. He declared, “Education is the bedrock of any society, and it is imperative that we, as stakeholders, recognize our role in fostering a culture of learning.”
The president emphasized that the donation is a concrete demonstration of the alumni’s commitment to improving the learning environment for current students. He pointed out that investing in education today is essential for cultivating the future leaders of tomorrow, stressing that the nation’s progress depends on the educational foundations laid today.
He further called for a unified effort from alumni, educators, and government agencies to ensure that educational institutions receive the support they need. “The future of our country depends on the education we provide today,” he stated, underlining the importance of community involvement in educational initiatives. Dr. Okediran urged former students to not only donate but to also actively mentor and guide the next generation of leaders, helping to create a supportive network that fosters academic excellence and personal growth.
Mr. Abraham Kareem, chairman of the 2002 graduating class, expressed his gratitude for the time spent at Olivet Baptist High School, recalling the pivotal role those years played in shaping their lives. Reflecting on the 22 years since their graduation, Kareem acknowledged the resilience and collective spirit of his classmates, which had helped them overcome obstacles in their journey.
In a moment of reflection, he paid tribute to their late classmates, leading a silent tribute in their memory. “Though they are no longer with us, their legacy lives on in our hearts,” he said, touching the hearts of all present.
Kareem also highlighted the significant accomplishments of the 2002 set since their first reunion in 2014, which include supporting their peers and the current students. He shared the alumni’s ongoing commitment to giving back, including initiatives to cover school and WAEC fees for the children of a deceased member and the establishment of a loan program for alumni in need.
“We are committed to giving back,” Kareem reiterated, emphasizing their latest project—the donation of 300 conjoined iron chairs and desks. This initiative arose from a needs assessment conducted in collaboration with the school principal, which revealed the school’s urgent need for better seating arrangements. The alumni’s contributions aim to improve the learning experience for current students, ensuring that they too can benefit from the educational environment that helped shape the lives of the 2002 class.
