Ikire, Osun State: Archbishop Emeritus Alaba Job of Ibadan has called on old boys to press for the restoration of missionary schools, urging the government to return them to their rightful owners and original mission.
He said this on Saturday in Ikire, during the Thanksgiving Mass and blessing of the renovated chapel by Fatima College Ikire, 1976 set, in commemoration of the school’s 70th anniversary.
He urged the Fatima College, Ikire Old Boys Alumni to push for the government’s return of missionary schools like Fatima to their original owners.
He urged the college’s old boys to champion the cause and reclaim the school’s heritage.
The priest expressed hope that the school would regain its freedom and original status if the alumni pursued it.
“The school is celebrating its 70th anniversary, but do you like what you see today?
“I challenge you to rise up and drive this pursuit for your school’s return, so it can regain its previous glory,” he said.
He, however, encouraged today’s ‘Fatimarians’ to remain strong in God, assuring them that there is still hope.
He enjoined them to always remember the school they came from and uphold the godly legacy by being shining examples of all good things.
“Difficulties shouldn’t overtake us, but we should always overtake our difficulties.
“May our youths rise up above the useless things they pursue today and become better,” Job said.
The Archbishop of Ibadan Diocese, who celebrated the Mass, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, urged the students to face their studies seriously so as to be great in life.
“You can see how great the old boys of this college have become today; it’s a reward for hard work, so work harder if you want to be like them,” Abegunrin said.
The President of 1976 set, Retired Navy Capt. Akintunde Olunloyo urged the members to do their best to ensure the schools were returned to the boarding house.
He thanked the school’s management for their cooperation and the 1976 set for their unity and work.
The chairman of the 70th Anniversary Planning Committee, Dr Paul Ilona, urged the government to partner with the private sector to develop education.
He tasked alumni bodies with complementing the government’s efforts in infrastructure and in the capacity development of students and teachers.
“Our alumni have been giving back to their community. During this programme, we conducted free medical checks, and no fewer than 200 people were treated.
“We have invested millions in the development of this school, so the alumni will play their roles while the government should also do theirs,” he said.
Ilona appreciated the distinguished excellencies, traditional rulers, clerics, teachers, and the 70th anniversary planning committee for their support in making the event a huge success.
Fatima College, Ikire, which began its remarkable journey in January 1956, was founded by the Society of African Missions (SMA) of the Catholic Church.
Located in Ikire, Osun State, the college was guided at its inception by its pioneering principal, the late Rev. Francis McCabe.
The highlights of the event were the Late Msgr. Peter Ajibola Marathon Race; Career guidance for students; Talent hunt competition, among others.
Awards were also given to some clerics, traditional rulers, and alumni members for their unwavering support, while some teachers and students were recognised for their outstanding performances.
