AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
Friday, November 15, 2024, was a momentous day for members of the Seminary-St Anne’s School Old Girls Association (SSASOGA) and the students of Saint Anne’s School, Molete, Ibadan, Oyo State, as they celebrated the official opening of the school’s Archives and Museum.
The museum, an initiative spearheaded by Lady Similola Onabanjo, the first National President of SSASOGA, was constructed and donated by the association. Although it was inaugurated in November 2023 by Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, Head of Service, Oyo State, this event marked its official unveiling for use.
The ceremony was vibrant and nostalgic, with the Old Girls dressed in shades of purple—reflecting the school’s official colors. They shared fond memories, recounting their experiences from the 1960s through the 1990s, much to the delight of current students.
The event began with a prayer led by Mrs. Toyin Akinpelu, Vice Chairman of SSASOGA’s Ibadan branch, followed by stirring performances by the choirs of St. Anne’s Junior and Senior Schools.
In her welcome address, SSASOGA National President, Mrs. Oluwafunmilayo Kehinde, emphasized the museum’s importance as a repository of the school’s rich history and traditions. She urged alumni to contribute artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia to preserve the legacy of Saint Anne’s School.
“The archives and museum are here to keep our history alive. We want to preserve the ideals and memories of our time at Saint Anne’s School,” Kehinde said. She recounted how the former National President, Lady Onabanjo, transformed an old, termite-eaten building into the beautiful museum now standing.
Kehinde also called on attendees to support the project financially through annual dues, assuring them of transparent record-keeping.
Alumni Share Fond Memories
During an interactive session, Dr. Ajayi Shodipo reflected on how Saint Anne’s School shaped her life. “I am proud to be a product of this school. The education we received was world-class, and the music culture here still resonates with me,” she said, recounting her experiences with the school’s rigorous academic and extracurricular activities.
Another alumna, Mrs. Omotayo Morgan, expressed her gratitude for the values instilled in her during her time at the school. She fondly remembered gardening competitions and pledged to donate a vintage copy of Daily Times, which featured Saint Anne’s students as pioneers in taking the Cambridge Examination.
“We must keep the flag flying so that Saint Anne’s remains the girls’ school in Nigeria,” Morgan added.
Dr. Pauline Olufemi Awobodu-Alabi, an ophthalmologist, inspired students with her personal story of perseverance. Recalling her struggles to finance her medical education abroad, she encouraged the students to remain resilient in the face of challenges.
“When things seem uncertain, always believe that all will be well. Stay disciplined and focused—you will find a way,” she advised.
Call for Excellence
Acknowledging the efforts of the school’s leadership, including Dr. Olasunmbo Savage and Mrs. Bimbo Akinyemi, Kehinde urged the management and staff to continue striving for excellence in nurturing the students.
A Weekend of Reconnection
Among the attendees on Friday were Messrs. Enitan Adegbite, Bolanle Okikiolu Ighile, VP1 Bukky Odumeru, Bolawa Adeosho, Bukky Akande, Gbemi Adepoju, Motolani Akinkoye, Ranti Alalade, and Bisola Ariyibi.
The celebration continued on Saturday, November 16, with a business meeting and set reunion for SSASOGA members, solidifying their commitment to preserving the legacy of Saint Anne’s School.
The event was a heartfelt reminder of the enduring bonds formed at Saint Anne’s School and the shared responsibility to honor its storied past.
