The United Secondary School, Agugu, Idi-Obi, Ibadan (USSA), received a major boost in educational infrastructure as members of its Old Students Association, particularly the 1986 Set, commissioned several landmark projects aimed at enhancing teaching, learning, and overall student development.
The projects, executed through the efforts of renowned alumnus, Dr. Olumuyiwa Adedeji, in collaboration with the United Secondary School Old Students Association (USSA) 1986 Set, were unveiled during a ceremony attended by government officials, alumni members, education stakeholders, community leaders, teachers, students, parents, and members of the media.
Representing the Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, the Permanent Secretary, Ibadan Zone I Education Inspectorate, Mr. Kareem Lukman, commended the alumni for their commitment to the development of the school. He described the initiative as a shining example of how stakeholders can complement government efforts in advancing education.
Lukman stated that the Oyo State Government remained committed to ensuring quality education through the active participation of all stakeholders. He noted that maintaining security in schools required the collective efforts of government, school administrators, communities, and citizens to create a safe and conducive learning environment.
He also urged other alumni groups and well-meaning individuals to emulate the example set by the United Secondary School Old Students Association by supporting educational institutions within their communities.
The Principal of United Secondary School (Senior), Agugu, Ibadan, Mrs. Grace Adika, described the event as a historic moment in the school’s history and a celebration of generosity, partnership, and educational advancement.
She expressed appreciation to Dr. Adedeji and members of the 1986 Set for their unwavering commitment and support to their alma mater, noting that the interventions had significantly transformed both the physical outlook and learning environment of the institution.
According to the principal, the newly commissioned facilities would create opportunities for students to compete favourably with their peers in an increasingly technology-driven world. She added that the football field and pavilion would encourage sporting excellence and talent development, while the newly created school hall would provide a suitable venue for assemblies, examinations, seminars, and other important activities.
Adika described the projects as a clear demonstration of the positive impact alumni associations can make when they remain actively connected to the institutions that shaped them.
She also commended the Oyo State Government for creating an enabling environment that encourages collaboration among schools, communities, and alumni associations, assuring stakeholders that the school management would ensure proper maintenance of the facilities for the benefit of future generations.
Speaking at the event, the National President of the United Secondary School Old Students Association, Mr. Taiwo Salawu, said the projects represented the association’s commitment to giving back to the institution that helped shape the lives and careers of its members.
According to him, the interventions reflected the alumni’s dedication to supporting educational development in Oyo State and Nigeria at large. He described the ultra-modern Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centre as the flagship project among the facilities commissioned, citing the growing importance of technology in education. Salawu noted that with examination bodies gradually adopting computer-based testing, it had become necessary to adequately prepare students to compete effectively in a rapidly evolving digital learning environment.
Expressing satisfaction with the turnout at the event, he commended members of the association for their dedication and support, describing the gathering as evidence of the strong bond among former students of the institution. He further called on alumni associations across the country to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of their alma maters, while also urging governments at all levels to accord greater priority to education and recognise alumni groups investing in the sector.
Speaking virtually via Zoom, project benefactor and alumnus, Dr. Olumuyiwa Adedeji, described the commissioning ceremony as a significant milestone in the history of the school and a reflection of a shared vision and collective commitment to excellence.
Adedeji stated that the projects, which include an ICT Centre, sports complex, library, science laboratories, drainage system, renovated sanitation facilities, beautified entrance, and other critical infrastructure, represented more than the unveiling of physical structures. According to him, the projects embodied a collective commitment to creating an environment that would inspire learning, nurture talent, and empower students to achieve their full potential.
He stressed that, in the medium term, stakeholders should focus on strengthening the quality of teaching and learning, noting that students must be equipped with critical thinking abilities, creativity, digital literacy, communication skills, and strong moral values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Adedeji added that the school’s long-term vision should be to become a centre of excellence not only in Oyo State but across Nigeria and beyond, producing graduates who are globally competitive while remaining grounded in the values of integrity, discipline, hard work, and service to humanity.
He also urged alumni across different generations to work together in unity and commit themselves to the advancement of the institution, emphasizing that the success of USSA should take precedence over individual, group, or generational interests.
Highlights of the commissioning included the unveiling of an ultra-modern ICT Centre equipped with computers and digital learning facilities, upgraded Physics, Chemistry, and Biology laboratories, an enhanced school library, rehabilitated classrooms, a standard football field with pavilion, a multi-purpose school hall converted from two classrooms, and extensive beautification of the school environment, including improvements to buildings and entrance gates.
In a further demonstration of their commitment to community service, members of the 1986 Set visited the Cheshire Home, where they donated food items, toiletries, and other relief materials to support residents of the facility.
The commissioning ceremony formed part of activities marking the 40th anniversary celebration of the United Secondary School Old Students Association (1986 Set).
