By Olamide Abdur Rasak
Old students of the first girls’ learning institution in Abeokuta, under the aegis of Abeokuta Girls Grammar School Old Girls Association (AGGSOGA), are set for a grand and befitting 70th-anniversary celebrations of their Alma Mater.
AGGSOGA, under the able leadership of the Global President, Mrs Olusolape Ajibola, an industrialist, and her team, is working towards rewarding and fun-filled, ceremonies comprising sporting events, science exhibitions, lectures, essay competition, old girls’ dinner, gala and awards night among other crowd-pulling events.
Distinguished alumni will be invited to share their success stories with a view to encourage the current students in navigating their lives’ struggles towards desired accomplishments.
Expected to share such stories are the Iyalode of Yorubaland, Chief Mrs Alaba Lawson; Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosun Dipeolu; retired Commissioner for Education, Ogun State, Dr. Mrs Bola Hammond; Mrs Amope Chokor, immediate past Head of Service, Ogun State; industrialist and current Global President of AGGSOGA, Mrs Olusolape Ajibola among others.
“Their accomplishments stand as a testament to the quality of education and character development they received at AGGS,” said the Global President.
The AGP also said the 70th anniversary, holding from February 13, 2025, through the 16th, will start with essay competition. Entry for the competition, with the topic, ‘Educated Mind, World’s Asset,’ will be open to all secondary schools in Abeokuta from April, with a submission deadline of August, 2024.
Ajibola added that the best three essays selected by a panel of judges will be rewarded at the Gala Night, where the writers will be invited to be honored.
The excited AGP went further: “Highlights include an inspiring essay competition, which will provide students with a platform to express their thoughts on pressing societal issues.”
Speaking about other planned activities, she said, “Sporting events will encourage physical fitness and teamwork, promoting holistic development. Cultural performances,art, and science exhibitions will celebrate our students’ talents. Distinguished alumni will be invited to share their success stories, providing valuable insights and inspiration.”
She also spoke gloriously of the AGGSOGA in relation to the Alma Mater.
“AGGS has undeniably provided a solid foundation for countless alumni, many of whom have excelled in various fields. Notable alumni have shone brightly in careers, spanning science,medicine, engineering, law, and entrepreneurship. Some have achieved remarkable success in the political arena, making a significant impact on governance and policy. Their accomplishments stand as a testament to the quality of education and character development they received at AGGS.
Other notable alumni include Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, Co-Founder, African Women’s Development Fund and immediate past First Lady of Ekiti State, Yeye Tola Hassan, Co-Founder, Eye Foundation, and immediate past AGGSOGA Global President, former Lagos State Head of Service, Mrs Funmi Adesoye. Also Journalists of repute like Pastor Mrs Omolola Adeyinka, the AGGSOGA Global Secretary, and Mrs Dupe Olaoye-Osinkolu who is also an author and performing artiste, among others
The old girls are expected to lead the current students in a series of sporting, health checks, health walks, and literary activities.
The iconic institution, Abeokuta Girls Grammar School, according to Ajibola, is “a distinguished educational institution with a legacy of excellence spanning 70 years.”
The school, unknown to many, has one male old student. Oba Adedapo Tejuosho, Karunwi III, the Osile Oke Ona, Egbaland, who was a student when the school was known as Abeokuta Girls School.
Ajibola added that AGGS has always been known for its commitment to academic rigor, character development, and commitment to ethical conduct.
“AGGS has nurtured generations of students who have excelled in various fields, making a positive impact on society.
“With a legacy of excellence spanning seven decades, this milestone is an opportunity to not only commemorate our rich history and culture but also chart a course for a brighter future.
On her leadership’s vision concerning an elaborate 70th anniversary celebration, Ajibola said, “The leadership of our old students association envisions the 70th-anniversary celebration as a manifestation of our commitment to excellence in education and good behavior.
“We aim to celebrate the legacy of academic brilliance, character development, and empowerment that the school has imparted to generations of students. This celebration will reflect our dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals who positively impact society.
“The decision to plan a grand anniversary celebration stems from our desire to pay homage to the thousands of alumni who have passed through the four walls of our alma mater
“It’s a tribute to the unalloyed support of parents, faculty, and staff who have contributed to our success. Additionally, it serves as a light for prospective students, highlighting the exceptional educational experience that awaits them at AGGS.”
