…As class of 24 graduates at St. Gregory’s
Government at all levels have been asked to prioritise education and ensure that they develop a curriculum that is rich, practical, as well as focuses and addresses national issues for sustainable growth and development of all sectors of the country. The charge was given by Very Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Ayeni, Administrator, St. Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, Lagos, during the valedictory service of the Class of 24, held recently in the school premises. Stating that education has been taken for granted in the country, Fr. Ayeni said proper education is not just about the money, but about instilling discipline, morals, and a sense of national consciousness in learners. “
According to him, “It’s not just about studying history in a classroom but all of us; teachers, lecturers and all those who work in schools, as well as the government letting our children know that we are coming from somewhere, and we are going somewhere. “We really must build in them, instill in our children the sense of national pride. “A lot of our young ones have lost hope in the country, that’s why you see them leaving to other countries. We must let them know that we have plans for them, and it all begins from the school”. The proud administrator who was witnessing his 10th graduation ceremony in the school, expressed gratitude to God, stating that at every occasion, it feels good, not just having the students come into the school as boys, but also having them graduate and leave as men. “Whenever we celebrate this graduation, we always give thanks to God because having them under our watch for six years is not easy; God keeping them alive, keeping them healthy, and of course, when you look at their success stories, it just makes us happy. So, we are always grateful to God”, he said.
He urged the graduands to remain focused and cling to all what they have been taught, as they begin another phase of their life, adding that, if they stick with the instructions they have received, they are definitely going to be very successful. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Gbenga Shobo, the event Chairman, asked the graduating students to be diligent and good ambassadors of the school, and ensure they excel in their future endeavours. He commended the proprietor, administrator and staff for their positive influence on the students, as well as ensuring that the curriculum and infrastructure of the school remains top notch.
Mr. Tunji Disu, Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, and Guest Speaker on the occasion, advised the graduands to continue to make their parents proud, and not allow themselves to be lured into drugs and cultism when they get admitted into tertiary institutions. He urged them to carry along with them the values and principles of integrity, discipline and relentless pursuit of excellence, instilled in them during their time in the school as they advance in life.
