The 1982 set of the old students of Bishop Phillips Academy, Ibadan, on Tuesday, inaugurated and handed over a newly constructed block of four classrooms equipped with chairs and desks to the school’s administrators.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Professor Salihu Adelabu, who presided over the inauguration at a ceremony held on the school premises, commended the ’82 Unique Set, as the group is formally referred to, for complementing the efforts of the state government in advancing the cause of education.
Professor Adelabu urged the set not to rest on its oars and encouraged other sets of old students to rise up to the task of improving infrastructure in the school, of which the state governor, Mr Seyi Makinde, is also an alumnus.
“There was a needs assessment before I took over, and we realised that in the education sector alone, we wouldn’t need less than N100 billion every year. And I give it to Governor Seyi Makinde, education has been taking a lion’s share in our budget.
“However, whatever we are putting in the budget is still not enough, and that is the reason why we need the old students and think of innovative financing of our schools. Those that are partnering with the government, posterity will not forget you,” the commissioner said.
He emphasised the need for all stakeholders to join hands with the state government in revamping the education sector and putting it on a sound footing for the future.
The national president of the Bishop Phillips Academy Old Students Association (BPAOSA), Mr Kunle Ogunsola, congratulated the 1982 set, saying they are truly unique in many respects, one of which was the successful execution of the projects that were being inaugurated.
The president of the ‘82 Unique Set, Mr Akinloye Adeyi, thanked Governor Makinde for being present at the event through the education commissioner to inaugurate and take over the project on behalf of the state government.
He expressed gratitude to God for inspiring the 1982 set to “reciprocate the high-quality education we received from this institution.”
Adeyi said: “More than four decades ago, none of us envisioned this moment, but today, our former playground accommodates this prominent structure, courtesy of our efforts.
“Our set exemplifies excellence among the school’s alumni, as evidenced by the projects that unite us today. These accomplishments resulted from shared determination, bravery, and ambition, guided by trust, understanding, tolerance, and perseverance.
“Despite challenges, including significant cost fluctuations, we successfully completed the projects without external aid, spending over N20 million.”
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