Nigerian Concord Newspaper
The Lagos State Government has committed to partnering with Old Students Associations to improve the State’s education sector.
This was made known by the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Bisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, during the 40th anniversary celebration of Jibowu High School 1985 Set.
Mrs. Dokunmu-Adegbite, who also doubles as the PS, Audit Service Commission, stated that the government is willing to work hand-in-hand with old students’ associations to identify areas that need intervention, promote public-private participation, and develop policies that will benefit students, schools, and the government.
While commending the State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his efforts in transforming the State’s education system, the Permanent Secretary promised to call a stakeholders’ meeting of the old students associations, which will comprise representatives from each secondary school’s Old Students Association, to brainstorm on ways to help move the education sector forward in Lagos State.
Meanwhile, Mr. Wasiu Olayinka, Permanent Secretary, Wealth Creation and a member of the Alumni, appealed to the government to reinstate Jibowu High School as a senior secondary school, citing the potential decline of the Alumni’s contributions if the school remains a junior secondary school. He also raised concerns about the activities of Keke Napep operators and touts around the school, which could negatively impact the students.
Adding his voice, the National President of the Jibowu High School, Estate Surveyor Tosin Kadiri, also lamented the decline in the old students population that had arisen over the years since the school was turned into a Junior School, as the junior students end up going to other schools for their senior secondary education. He also pleaded for a return of the school to its old status.
As part of activities marking its 40th year of leaving the school, the 1985 set donated a laptop, drum set and whiteboards to the school.
The School Principal, Mrs. Olasumbo Ogundeyin, expressed gratitude for the support and promised to ensure the donated items are put to good use and well-maintained.
The event was attended by old teachers, members of the Alumni Association, family, and friends, and marked a significant milestone in the school’s history.