It was a moment of nostalgia and celebration at Eyemote Comprehensive High School, Iyin-Ekiti, as the Class of 1976 marked 50 years of their graduation with the handover of a renovated school hall and gate to the school authorities.
The anniversary also featured an inspiring charge to students to remain focused, disciplined, and be worthy ambassadors of their alma mater.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Senior Prefect of the 1976 set and pioneer Provost of the College of Medicine, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Prof. Rotimi Sanya, said success is only attained through hard work and urged students to embrace diligence as a pathway to respect and dignity.
Prof. Sanya cautioned students against laziness and lack of seriousness with their studies, warning that such attitudes could truncate their future.
“If you come to school to pursue a good degree, you will get a good degree. If you want a girlfriend, you will get one. But know this for the future: the road to success is hard work,” he said.
Recounting his personal journey, the renowned medical practitioner said: “I was one of the oldest people in the class. I was approaching 20 years old when I was in Class One. Some of the parents sitting here knew me when I was a barber in this town, Iyin-Ekiti. So, my children, don’t let your present situation deny you a better future.”
He urged students to respect their teachers and cultivate a habit of independent study, while charging teachers to remain committed and diligent in their duties, noting that their dedication would speak for them and benefit generations.
In his remarks, the National President of the Alumni Association, retired Wing Commander, Commodore Lawrence Akinwumi, commended the Class of ’76 for their contributions to society and for their consistent support for the development of their alma mater.
He encouraged students to take greater interest in activities that promote personal development and academic excellence.
Similarly, a traditional ruler and member of the pioneer set, the Oniropora of Iropora-Ekiti, Oba Olonibua, admonished students to shun acts capable of jeopardizing their future. He recalled that the education he received at Eyemote at a young age helped him navigate life’s challenges, urging students to prioritize their education.
The Chairman of the Class of 1976, Pastor Gbenga Oladimeji, particularly charged female students not to allow their background to determine their future, stressing that laziness breeds poverty. He urged all students to devote time to their studies to achieve success.
Earlier, Pastor Oladimeji said the celebration was to give thanks to God for preserving members of the set 50 years after graduation.
“First and foremost, we saw a need to give glory to God 50 years after we graduated from this school. We came here in 1972 and graduated in 1976. It was challenging, it was tough, but we give glory to God who has helped us,” he said.
In his welcome address, the Principal of Eyemote Comprehensive High School, Mr. Ebenezer Olofin, appreciated the Class of 1976 for remembering their roots and giving back to the school.
“We celebrate you today, the Class of 1976, not just for returning, but for remembering your alma mater. In a world where many have forgotten their roots, you have chosen to remember your source. Your return is a beautiful testament to gratitude, loyalty and the enduring bond you share with the institution that helped shape your lives,” Olofin said.
He assured that the school would continue to uphold discipline, hard work and academic excellence.
