The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has pledged support for educational programmes and infrastructure development in schools across Oyo town, particularly Olivet Baptist High School.
The monarch made the pledge on Sunday at a fundraising ceremony and thanksgiving service in Ibadan marking the 50th anniversary of the school’s 1972–1976 set of old students.
He commended the alumni for giving back to their alma mater, stressing that school development should not be left solely to the government.
“I am assuring you of my support for every one of your programmes that are aimed at raising the standard of education in the school,” he said, adding that he would also support educational initiatives in other schools across Oyo town.
Also speaking, Chief Wale Babalakin called for collaboration among different sets of old students to advance the school’s development.
He also commented on the proposal by the 1972–1976 set to take over the school’s administration, arguing that its management should not be left entirely to the government or the mission.
Earlier, the set’s president, Adeoye Mapederun, disclosed that the association had spent slightly below ₦10 million to renovate a block of three classrooms at the school in Oyo.
He said the classrooms were previously in a deplorable condition, with no roof, windows or blackboards.
The renovation included installing ceiling fans and providing other facilities to create a more conducive learning environment for students.
Mapederun described the project as the first phase of the association’s intervention, adding that members planned to raise more funds to renovate another classroom block in poor condition.
He said the initiative was part of efforts to complement government intervention and restore the school to its former glory.
Recalling the quality of education and facilities available during their time at the school about 50 years ago, Mapederun lamented their deterioration over the years.
He added that the national body of the Olivet Old Students’ Association was considering taking over the school’s administration, subject to its ability to raise sufficient funds to sustain the arrangement.
