By Law Ibitoye and
Samuel Sunday
The 2001 set of the Unity Ikere Old Students Association (UNIKOSA) has donated educational materials worth over ₦2 million to Ekiti State Government College, Ikere-Ekiti, to improve learning conditions and complement government’s efforts in the education sector.
The items, presented during the set’s 25th anniversary celebration included tables, benches for the school dining hall, bush cutters and sporting materials.The two-day silver jubilee, themed “Celebrating Unity, Impact and Growth: 25 Years of Friendship, Growth and Service,” featured a novelty football match, cultural performances, a health education session, awards to former teachers and a visit to New Cruse FM, Ikere Ekiti.
Speaking at the event held at the school Hall, chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Engr. Seun Adedeji Ogundare, described the 25th anniversary as a celebration of friendship and shared commitment to service. He commended members for their contributions and urged other alumni to support the school through infrastructure renovation, modern facilities, scholarships and other interventions.
Ogundare also appealed to the school management to ensure proper maintenance of the donated materials to extend their lifespan and benefit future generations of students.
In her keynote address, Mrs. Funke Agbele of the 1994 set urged alumni to go beyond financial contributions by providing mentorship, scholarships and practical support for students.
She said government alone could not meet all the needs of educational institutions, stressing the importance of collective efforts in improving education.
The school principal, Mrs. Modupe Adebayo, appreciated the gesture and pledged to ensure proper maintenance of the donated items.
The 2001set also honoured four former teachers for their contributions to members’ academic development. They were Mrs. Adeyemi Esther, Yoruba; Mr. Fagbamigbe Samuel Funsho, Music; Dr. Onipede Omoleye, Agricultural Science; and Mr. Awe Babatunde Olabode, English.
Responding on behalf of the awardees, Dr. Onipede and Mrs. Adeyemi thanked the association for the recognition and urged current students to remain focused on their studies and embrace discipline.
A health education session titled “Eat Smart, Grow Strong,” delivered by a member of the set, Mrs. Janet Adetunji Onyima, highlighted the importance of balanced diets, adequate water intake and regular exercise for healthy living.
The chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, Mrs. Adenike Osakinle, thanked members for their contributions and encouraged former students who had yet to join the association to reconnect and support the school. Her husband, Dr. Osakinle, described alumni associations as important partners in educational development, urging old students and corporate organisations to help improve infrastructure and learning facilities in their former schools.
Similarly, Mrs. Olusola Monisola Oluwafemi said alumni could make meaningful contributions regardless of their financial status, noting that small donations could collectively produce significant results.
Another member, Ibukunola Sunkanmi, encouraged students to work hard, obey their teachers and embrace discipline as a foundation for future success.
The celebration ended with a gala night at Queen’s Court, Ado-Ekiti, as members renewed their commitment to sustaining their relationship with the school and supporting its development.
