By Richard Thomas
The President of the Queens School Old Students Association (1975–1980 Set), Apata, Ibadan, Mrs. Dele-Bayo Osibo, has appealed to the Oyo State Government to return the management of the institution to the Old Girls Association for better administration and revitalization of the school.
Mrs. Osibo made the appeal while speaking with journalists during the 50th Anniversary celebration of the set, held at the Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh Building within the school premises.
She urged the government to complete all necessary formalities to enable the association to contribute more effectively to restoring the school’s lost glory.
“We plead with the government to continue to support us in improving the standard of the school,” she said. “My earnest appeal is that the school be released to the Old Girls Association. Once that is done, we can work together to bring the school back to its glorious days.”
Reflecting on the significance of the golden jubilee, Mrs. Osibo, an Information Technology Consultant, said the celebration marked five decades since their admission into Queens School in 1975.
“It’s been 50 years since we all came together as young girls in this school. We thought it wise to thank God and celebrate His grace over our lives,” she noted. “This event is also a way of giving back to the school that molded us.”
As part of their contributions, the association commissioned a Solar Alternative Inverter Project to power the administrative offices and computer rooms of the school.
Speaking after an inspection of the school facilities, including the hostels, Mrs. Osibo lamented the poor condition of infrastructure in the school.
“The school has changed from what it used to be. Many of the structures are dilapidated, and the surroundings are not in good shape. We decided to go round to see where we can intervene and help restore the school to its former glory,” she said.
She commended the current school management for their efforts, assuring them of the association’s commitment to working with them in rebuilding the school.
“We are on a journey to rebuild Queens School, and we want the management to support us until we achieve our goal of transforming this great institution,” she added.
Also speaking, the Vice President of the association, Mrs. Olatokunbo Fagbemi, described the reunion as an emotional and joyous occasion.
“It’s a wonderful feeling to be back together after 50 years. We are here to celebrate God’s grace and success in our lives and to see how we can make the school better,” she said. “Our next project will focus on mentoring the students and sharing our experiences to guide and inspire them.”
While addressing the students, Mrs. Fagbemi advised them to take their studies seriously and remain prayerful.
“Do everything you do with excellence,” she urged. “Take your education seriously, and above all, stay focused and prayerful.”
The Head Girl of Queens School, Miss Ayoola Taiwo Olufunbi, appreciated the Old Girls for their love and commitment, describing their gesture as inspiring.
“We are so grateful to the Old Girls for remembering their Alma Mater. Their visit has encouraged us, and we promise to emulate their spirit by also giving back to the school in future,” she said.
Another member of the 1975–1980 Set, Mrs. Akintunde Ige, a retired teacher, described the event as a memorable reunion.
“It’s a great joy to reunite with my classmates after so many years. I encourage other Old Girls to join the association so we can collectively lift the school to greater heights,” she stated.
The highlight of the event was the commissioning of the Solar Alternative Inverter Project by Pastor David Erivona of the Redeemed Christian Church, Ring Road, Ibadan, a career and mentoring session for students, and other engaging activities that marked the 50th-anniversary celebration.
