The Kwara State Deputy Governor, Mr Kayode Alabi has emphasized the need for individuals and corporate bodies to complement government’s effort by contributing positively to the growth and development of the nation.
Alabi said this on Saturday while speaking at the 40th anniversary and reunion of 1979 set Old Students’ Association of Offa Grammar School, held at the school Auditorium in Offa.
The Deputy Governor, who explained that 40 years in the history of the 1979 set and Offa Grammar School had been memorable and eventful, noted that the gathering offered opportunity to reflect on the past and look forward to the future with great hope.
He said renovation of the state library with full internet access and other accessories necessary for 21st century, comprehensive renovation of schools including the OGS among others were parts of the government of AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s drive to revamp and restore the glory of the education sector.
The Deputy Governor commended the organisers of the reunion for the foresight and visions of bringing old friends together to rub minds on ways to move the school, the state and nation forward.
Alabi stressed that Government, no matter how benevolent and financially buoyant, could not meet all the needs of the people, hence the need for everyone to be ready to contribute positively to bring about desired growth and development across board.
Earlier in a keynote address, the Chairman of Offa Grammar School Old Students’ Association 1979 Set, Dr Taiye Omojasola said that OGS gave them well-rounded education.
He said these include academic impact, literacy and debating skills including sporting and spiritual activities which brought about competence and courage to face life challenges.
Omojasola, however, noted that the school has suffered great dilapidation when compared with what it was 40 years ago, stressing that collective effort must be made to restore the school to its former glory.
He added that the 1979 Set has carried out massive renovation of a building of a block of 12 classrooms which involved changing the entire roof, ceiling, windows, doors, wiring, and painting among others to have an almost new building.
In their goodwill messages, The Chairman, Home branch, Offa Grammar School Old Students Association, Alhaji Jimoh Salako applauded the intention of the class of ‘79 because he believed their intention was not to display their wealth, but to bequeath onto our children a conducive environment for teaching and learning.
The Chairman, 1980 set, Mr AbdulRauf Lawal suggested that maintenance plan should be included in any act of renovation as it was becoming difficult for the school authority to maintain numerous infrastructures coming to them.
NAN reports that at the occasion was attended by Oba Samuel Fabiyi, the Oba of Idofian, who was also an old student.
Also at the gathering were the former Principal of the School, Alhaji Wahab Nasiru and his wife, and teachers; Alhaji Arowosaye, Mr Phillips Babalola, Elder Bisi Adelowo, who represented the Adelowo’s family and Rev. Adediran.
