Yemisi Izuora
As the Saint Anthony’s Secondary School Old Students Association – SASSIOSA, marks the institution’s 55th anniversary, the Chairman Board of Trustees, BOT, of the college, Prof. Lere Baale, has called for a collective efforts by old students of the school to support and contribute to the growth and development of their alma mater.
In his speech delivered at the celebration, Baale, urged them to take a moment to reflect on the transformative power of education and the profound impact the school and how it has transformed their lives.
He recalled how the School founded in 1968, by the Catholic Church, imparted knowledge, instilled values of integrity, discipline, vision, understanding, clarity, agility, resilience and perseverance that have guided those who went through the college.
“As we honour the past, let us also embrace the future. Our beloved school continues to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing educational landscape.
“As alums, we are responsible for supporting and contributing to the growth and development of our alma mater. Together, we can invest in scholarships, infrastructure improvements, digital transformation of education and educational programmes that will empower the next generation of students to achieve their dreams and create a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities.” Baale challenged them.
He urged them to recommit themselves to the spirit of excellence, unity, and service that the School instilled in them .
Going through memory lane, the BOT Chairman, said, “Today, we gather here to thank God and celebrate the double grace of the remarkable milestone of the 55th anniversary of the founding of our beloved Saint Anthony’s Secondary School by the Catholic Church in 1968, with Rev Sr Margaret Howes as the first Principal.
“Let me openly state that Rev Sr. Margaret is the Divine Helper who laid the foundation and made it possible for me to be whoever I am today through her support of my education from secondary school to the university level for my first degree. It was usually an opportunity for deep reflection and testimonies anytime I visited her in the UK yearly from 2000 to 2020 before she departed in 2021 to be with the Lord after her 95 years on earth. “
According to him, he was was inspired to share this in-depth information so that Saint Anthony’s Secondary School could continue the legacy of transforming the children of “nobody” into victorious children of destiny, adding, “It is a joyous occasion to reflect on this esteemed institution’s rich heritage and enduring legacy that has inspired, shaped and transformed countless lives, including mine.
He also remarked that there are many inspiring testimonies of the success of several SASSIOSA alums similar to his, stressing that, “As the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Saint Anthony’s Secondary School Old Students Association, it is my honour and privilege to express deep appreciation and profound gratitude to our dedicated, tireless and resilient members of the board, the executives, past and present staff of the School, who, through their sacrifices and commitments, laid the foundation for this prestigious association, and for their valuable contributions in making our alma mater a beacon of excellence.”
He used the occasion to express his most profound appreciation and commendation to the board and executives of the Old Students Association, who have tirelessly worked towards fostering unity, camaraderie, and support among our inspiring alumni network.
He said, “Your commitment and dedication to organising reunions, fundraising events, mentorship programs, and community service initiatives have significantly strengthened the bond among our alums and propelled our association’s growth and development.
“We also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional past and present staff of Saint Anthony’s Secondary School. Your unwavering dedication, passion for education, and commitment to nurturing young minds have laid the foundation for generations of students who have passed through these hallowed halls.
Through your collective efforts, our school has consistently provided quality education, character development, and a nurturing environment for all students entrusted to your care. Your commitment to excellence has shaped the lives of countless individuals who now stand as responsible and impactful members of society.”
