The Christ Apostolic Church Grammar School, Efon Alaaye Alumni Association, CAPOSTO has launched a 50 million endowment fund to support knowledge development for underprivileged students of its alma mata, with a view to shaping their future.
The endowment fund, according to former students of the school, became necessary following the decline in education at all levels.
Speaking at the launch of the endowment fund and investiture of 20 members of the alumni into CAPOSTO Hall of Fame, former Vice Principal of the Ekiti State University, Prof. Dipo Kolawole, emphasized the need for a holistic approach that extends beyond education to address the decline in education at all levels.
He attributed the decline to a broader degeneration in society and national leadership. He acknowledged that while education should be a catalyst for change, providers of knowledge were doing their best to impart wisdom.
However, he noted that technological advancements have their drawbacks, including decreased discipline among students and limitations on teachers’ ability to discipline. He therefore, advocated for a holistic approach to rebuilding discipline in society, beyond just education.
Speaking on the theme ‘Reconnecting CAPOSTO to the National Grid’, Olugenga Oluwaniyi, also a former student of CAPOSTO, expressed concern about the decline in education quality, a trend he said was not only seen at CAPOSTO but nationwide.
He said: “Many old schools have deteriorated structures, and discipline among students has decreased compared to previous generations. Additionally, the outcomes and results are continuously degenerating. The alumni are concerned about what needs to be done to address this crisis.
“There is an evident crisis situation that requires immediate action. One of the foundational issues is the reliance on the federal government for elementary and high school education. Even when responsibilities are handed over to local governments, there is still the question of funding.
“Currently, the federal government has started to allow local governments to operate more freely, but they are constrained by financial structures controlled by the state. How can the state effectively manage primary schools in distant areas?
“The management, support, and financing of schools need to be in the hands of the community. When the community is responsible for their schools, they will genuinely care about the outcomes because it directly affects them. This accountability is crucial for growth”, he asserted.
Earlier in his welcome remark, President General of CAPOSTO, Dr. Adekunle Ojo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN who disclosed that it was the first time the association would be floating endowment funds, explained that the occasion was meant to enable members of the alumni to reflect on the ideals and vision of the founders of the alumni.
He highlighted some structural development carried out in the school by the alumni to include: “construction of a library, refurbishment of classroom blocks and science laboratory.
“The first sports pavilion in the local government was built by our members for the students. We bought a drum set for the school and also gifted the students with scholarships, as well as the construction of six modern toilets in the school. Very soon, the school will have a clinic and will enjoy 24/7 illumination powered by solar.
“The association acknowledges that education goes beyond the classroom, supporting students with potential in various fields. It is committed to supporting education and recognizing excellence, with plans to honor more deserving individuals in the future”.
The launch and induction ceremony according to him, marked a significant milestone for the association, demonstrating their dedication to education and recognition. With the endowment fund and alumni house, the association according to him, aimed to make a lasting impact on the lives of students and alumni.
