The 1983 set of Ekiti Teachers’ College (ETC), Ikere-Ekiti, has held its maiden reunion in Ado-Ekiti, with a resolve to leverage their collective experience and influence towards supporting the course of education and community development in Ekiti State.
The historic gathering forty-two years after leaving the school brought together distinguished alumni, including accomplished administrators, educators, and community leaders, who used the occasion to reflect on their formative years, celebrate enduring friendships, and chart a new direction for the association.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting to newsmen in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday, the alumni commended the Ekiti State Government for its remarkable strides in the education sector.
The alumni described the various administration’s commitment as a driving force behind the state’s growing educational achievements.
They, however, urged the present government to further strengthen teacher capacity-building initiatives across all levels to enhance teaching quality and learning outcomes.
“The various administrations in the state have demonstrated uncommon commitment to education through improved infrastructure, teacher motivation, and policy innovation.
“We urge the current government to continue strengthening capacity-building for teachers at all levels to guarantee sustainable quality in learning outcomes, “the statement read.
The association urged the state government to clear the backlog of gratuities owed retired public servants, particularly teachers, noting that “those who laid the foundation for the future generations deserve to be honoured with timely benefits.”
Dr Jide Akinleye, a retired Permanent Secretary in the Ekiti State Public Service, presented the association’s vision, mission, and objectives, where he outlined the group’s focus on strengthening friendship bonds.
“Promoting networking, enhancing members’ welfare, and contributing meaningfully to education and social re-engineering within and beyond the state,”he said.
Mr Ayeni David, Chairman of the Alumni Association, who spoke through the Secretary, Mr Akindele Ayorinde, charged members to uphold the ideals and objectives of the body, stressing unity, collaboration, and purposeful engagement as the foundation for impactful progress.
“This reunion is more than a gathering of old classmates, it is a renewal of purpose. We must keep alive the spirit of discipline, hard work, and integrity that Ekiti Teachers’ College instilled in us,”he said.
In his welcome address, Prof. Joseph Babatunde, Chairman of the reunion planning committee, encouraged members to support one another and remain active stakeholders in societal development.
The reunion was rich in nostalgia as members shared evergreen memories of their days at Ekiti Teachers’ College, recalling how the institution instilled in them discipline, diligence, and the timeless values that shaped their personal and professional journeys.
The resolutions of the 1983 Set stand as a testament to the enduring power of education, collective action, and the unbroken spirit of service that defines the Ekiti Teachers’ College, Ikere Ekiti legacy.
