Fatima College, Ikire, last Friday rounded off its 68th Founder’s Day organised by the Fatima College Old Boys Association (FACOBA).
The two-day event, which attracted a massive turnout of the products of the school within and outside the country to celebrate their alma mater began on Thursday with commissioning of project (fence/school gate), debate, football match, free health outreach for students and parents, lecture, awards, and rounded off with a special dinner.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the National President of FACOBA, Pastor Henry Otoibhi, lauded his predecessors and other members of the association for their commitment towards the development of the school.
He stated that the celebration of the Founder’s Day has brought back school days’ memories and has rekindled emotions of the past amongst the alumni.
“The celebration of the Founder’s Day is not only to mark a tradition of excellence, but also a testament to the enduring spirit of our esteemed institution,” Otoibhi said.
He acknowledged the proactive involvement of various school sets’ classmates in contributing to the development of their alma mater, saying their generosity and commitment have significantly contributed to the growth of Fatima College, Ikire.
Otoibhi appealed to products of the school to help with the phase two project of the school fence, backside construction for full security of the school premises.
“As we gather here to commemorate this milestone, l am filled with immense pride to share with you some of the significant achievements we have accomplished during my tenure as president.
“First and foremost, I am delighted to announce the completion of the first phase of the school fence and gate. This milestone not only enhances the security of our beloved institution, but also symbolises our commitment to providing a safe and conducive learning environment for our students.
“I am thrilled to highlight the successful re-engineering of the Old Boys Association. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication, we have revitalised our alumni network, fostering a stronger sense of community and support for Fatima College, Ikire.
“In our pursuit of sustainability and innovation, I am pleased to announce the implementation of solar lighting across the school compound. This eco-friendly initiative not only reduces our carbon footprint, but also ensures that our facilities remain well-lit and accessible, even during evening hours,” Otoibhi added.
The guest speaker, Pastor Olayemi Abass, appealed to students to avoid the use of hard drugs, as well as all forms of social vices.
He pointed out that drug abuse has become a global problem, adding that about 5.8 per cent of the nation’s population is a victim of drug abuse.
In his lecture, Olayemi educated the students on the impact of drug and the outcome of its abuse.
“The traits of drug abuse are criminal and immoral activities like stealing, prostitution and 75 percent of drug income are gotten from these illicit behaviours,” Olayemi stated.
He admonished students to abstain totally from all forms of drug misuse, and embrace discipline that would also brighten their future.
In his remarks, Principal of the school, Mr Adeniji Oluremi, said that FACOBA has performed immensely well towards the growth of the school.
He noted that if not for the association, the school would have lacked some many basic amenities that are available today in the school.
“We sincerely appreciate their efforts and contributions to the development of the school such as provision of borehole; presentation of awards to the alumni and organising prize giving day to reward best students; equipment of science laboratory and the ICT room, building of books for the school library that is helping the students.
“The alumni have been doing so well in contributing to the growth of the school, and I want to urge them to help us complete our perimeter fencing for maximum security.
“We also need a befitting school hall and upgrade our ICT room,” Adeniji said.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Parent- Teacher Association (PTA), Mr Adebayo Onifade, urged FACOBA to maintain the pace, saying history will write itself, whatever anyone does today will live with him forever.
Read Also: Gov Otu approves employment of 31 doctors, 177 others
