By Justus Adetomiwa, Ado-Ekiti
The Ekiti State Government has urged alumni associations across the state to support the upgrade of infrastructure in their former schools to improve the learning environment for students.
The Commissioner for Education, Mrs Kofoworola Aderiye, made the call in Igbemo Ekiti, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, during the inauguration of a renovated block of classrooms, an upgraded science laboratory and a mini-bus donated by the alumni association of Igbemo Community Comprehensive High School.
Aderiye, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Mr Bayode Ogunmola, commended the old students for complementing government efforts to improve educational infrastructure in the state.
She said the refurbishment of the classroom block, the upgrade of the science laboratory and the donation of the mini-bus would enhance teaching and learning in the school.
“This is a call on other alumni groups to emulate the ICCHS Old Students Association. The state government is ready to partner with individuals, corporate organisations and development partners committed to advancing education in Ekiti State,” she said.
The Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, who is also the Vice-President of the ICCHS Alumni Association, described the donation as an effort by old students to give back to their alma mater.
Olatunbosun said alumni associations had a responsibility to support their former schools through fundraising for projects and scholarships.
He added that such support could also include mentorship programmes, career guidance, networking opportunities and infrastructural development.
According to him, sustained collaboration among alumni associations, host communities and other stakeholders is crucial to the continued progress of the education sector in the state.
Olatunbosun also stated that the mini-bus was donated in memory of Bakare Akeem Arowolo, a former Senior Prefect of the school in 1988.