Old Students Association of Siluko Grammar School near Benin City in Edo State have provided an ultra-modern science laboratory, reconstructed the principal and staff quarters to mark the 50th anniversary of the school, founded in 1974.
The old boys and girls, who gathered in Benin City on Saturday to wine and dine after the commissioning of the science laboratories and other projects earlier on Friday, reminisced about memories of their days as students of the institution.
Speaking, the National President, Mr. Dave Akharume, said, after a minute’s silence was observed for their departed colleagues, “The association has been a cornerstone of connection, camaraderie, and service to the institution. It has provided us with a platform to reconnect with old friends, share stories, and support one another. We have come together to celebrate successes, mourn losses, and offer assistance to the school.”
He decried the degradation in infrastructure and dwindling student population due to a lack of teachers over the last fifty years of the institution.
“Fifty years ago, we embarked on a journey together, bound by shared experiences and memories of our school days. Our experiences are almost similar – the Siluko life and all. We came here as children but left as adolescents. Our old principal, Chief S.O. Ajaiyi, was a father to all. He knew us by name and face.
“Today, we gather to reflect on the incredible milestones we have achieved as individuals and collectively, a direct result of our alma mater’s legacy.
“Our association has been a cornerstone of connection, camaraderie, and service. It has provided us with a platform to reconnect with old friends, share stories, and support one another. We shall strive to make our association a source of strength, inspiration, and lifelong friendships.
“Over the past five decades, we have witnessed the degradation in growth and non-evolution of our school. The student population dwindled due to a lack of teachers.
“As an association, we have been able to give back to the school to the best of our abilities. We installed and equipped the following state-of-the-art laboratories: Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Agricultural Science laboratories.
“Furthermore, we refurbished an old building to house corps members. We provided furniture and beds for their comfort. However, we are saddened that no member of the National Youth Service Corps has been deployed here to date. The place is empty.”
“Our association has been paying the salaries of local teachers bridging the gap because the state government has refused to send teachers to the school. Suffice it to say that this has been a recurring decimal over the years.
“Our association has provided free school uniforms and school shoes to the entire student body.”
Speaking, Mr. Victor Osazuwa, Edo State Chapter Chairman and 1975 set, said they are happy to be alive and celebrate after 50 years and give back to the school that molded them in their formative years.
He decried the present state of the school, which he described as pathetic, and pleaded with the government to provide for the school’s needs.
Also, the Principal of Siluko Grammar School (Senior School), Mr. Osaro Idahosa, thanked the association and prayed God to replenish the pockets that provided the funding. He challenged those yet to key into the project to do so.
“Education is supposed to be a joint effort of the community, government, and teachers. Where there is such cooperation, things will always work,” he said.
For a better society
