Osun: Osogbo Grammar School 1972/76 Set Celebrates Glorious Golden Jubilee Anniversary

-Urges students To Prioritise Skill Over Certificates, Unveils Legacy Projects

By Boluwatife Adedokun, Osogbo

Members of the 1972–1976 graduating set of Osogbo Grammar School have urged students to look beyond academic certificates by embracing practical skills, resilience and purposeful living as they marked the 50th anniversary of their graduation from the institution.

The alumni gave the advice during their Golden Jubilee Anniversary Grand Homecoming Reunion held on August 30 and 31, 2026, at Osogbo Grammar School, Osogbo, Osun State, where they reflected on five decades of friendship, shared experiences and the impact of the school on their personal and professional lives.

The two-day celebration, which was marked by nostalgia, fellowship and reflection, also featured the presentation of a landmark legacy project to the school as members of the 1972/76 set reaffirmed their commitment to the continued development of their alma mater.

Speaking at the event, President of the old students association, Sir Dr. ‘Demola Aladekomo, described the golden jubilee celebration as a remarkable milestone that reflected the enduring bond among classmates and the timeless values imparted by Osogbo Grammar School.

“Fifty years after we passed through the gates of Osogbo Grammar School, it is with immense joy and gratitude to God that we gathered once again as brothers and sisters to celebrate this Golden Jubilee milestone,” Aladekomo said.

He said the reunion was not merely a celebration of the past but an opportunity to strengthen friendships, give back to their alma mater and inspire the next generation of students.

Aladekomo urged students to remain disciplined, focused and committed to excellence, stressing that integrity, hard work and continuous learning had remained the pillars of success for many members of the class over the past five decades.

According to him, every successful individual begins with a dream, but only determination, resilience and a willingness to embrace learning can turn such dreams into reality.

“We entered Osogbo Grammar School in 1972 and graduated in 1976. Fifty years later, we decided to celebrate our golden anniversary and appreciate how far we have all come,” he said.

Addressing the students, Dr Solesi Abiodun , the treasurer of the set stressed that the modern labour market places greater value on competence and innovation than on academic qualifications alone, urging young people to deliberately acquire practical and professional skills that would make them competitive.

“People are no longer interested in certificates alone. They want to know what you can do and the skills you possess. Professional certifications and practical knowledge are becoming more important in the world of work,” he said.

The retired education professional also encouraged students not to allow financial hardship to derail their education, recalling how he overcame severe economic challenges to complete his studies.

“I don’t want any student to say, ‘My parents don’t have money, so I’m dropping out.’ Keep pushing until there’s nothing else to push. There is no gain without pain,” he advised.

Commenting on the rising number of out-of-school children and the decline of free education, Solesi attributed the development largely to prevailing economic realities but maintained that resilience, continuous learning and skill acquisition remain the surest pathways to success.

Also speaking, the Vice President (Female) of the alumni association, Dr. Mrs. Moridiyah Omalara Adeyemo, described the reunion as a heartwarming experience that rekindled old friendships and brought back cherished memories of their school days.

She said members had spent the reunion celebrating their shared history and temporarily setting aside the pressures of daily life.

“It has been very interesting. Since yesterday, everybody has forgotten whatever problems they may have had. We have been remembering our old days together, and everyone is happy,” she said.

Adeyemo, who also delivered a wellness talk during the anniversary, spoke on healthy aging and wellbeing in the senior years.

She highlighted the importance of regular medical check-ups and screening for age-related conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and arthritis, while also emphasising balanced diet, physical activity, mental wellbeing, stress management, social connection, adequate rest and quality sleep.

“Secondary school is the foundation of life. If the foundation is weak, whatever you build on it may not stand. Students must remain focused and identify role models who will help them achieve their aspirations,” she said.

She said the leadership role ignited her passion for healthcare and ultimately inspired her career as a nurse clinician and lecturer.

The anniversary celebration also featured a buffet and music session, indoor games and cultural displays by current students, adding colour and youthful energy to the occasion.

A major highlight of the celebration was a throwback session, where members relived memories of their school days, followed by an alumni sharing session where members reflected on their different career paths, life experiences and lessons for younger generation

The event further featured an awards and recognition ceremony honouring distinguished members of the set and celebrating their contributions to Osogbo Grammar School and society at large.

Also, school principals were decorated with the set muffler with a view to recognising and appreciating them for their contribution to the future of the students.

In a gesture that will leave a lasting legacy, the 1972/76 Set presented a renovated Legacy Gate to the school, an earlier project of the set which was upgraded with a new security gate and illuminated with solar lighting.

The set also rebuilt sections of the school fence that were pulled down by a rainstorm, reinforcing its commitment to the security and development of the institution.