An educationist and Director of the Centre for Ilorin Studies, University of Ilorin, Professor Issa Olanrongbe Sanusi, has called on old students of secondary schools across the country to remain committed to the development of their alma mater through academic and infrastructural support.

Professor Sanusi made the call on Saturday while speaking at the 40th Anniversary Reunion of the Government Secondary School (GSS), Malete Class of 1986, held at Bovina Hotel, Ilorin.

He stressed the need for alumni associations to pay greater attention to the condition of their former schools by investing in infrastructure and educational development to improve learning standards and sustain the institutions' legacy.

In his welcome address, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and old student of the school, Mr Kehinde Eleja, recalled that 40 years ago, their major concerns were passing examinations, avoiding punishment for lateness, completing assignments on time, finding excuses for unfinished homework, and securing admission into higher institutions.

Mr Eleja described the reunion as an opportunity to renew old friendships and strengthen existing bonds among classmates. He noted that the lessons learnt at GSS Malete extended beyond academics, emphasising that the school instilled values such as resilience, responsibility, teamwork, respect, integrity, and perseverance, which have continued to guide them in life.

He, however, lamented the decline in the fortunes of the school since their graduation, noting that the institution now faces numerous challenges. He called on the leadership of the Old Students' Association and members to work collaboratively towards addressing the challenges and restoring the school to its former glory.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and former Accountant in the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, Abuja, Alhaji Aliyu Oba Ajikobi, described the gathering as highly nostalgic.

He disclosed that GSS Malete commenced operations in 1971 with only 36 students and eight teachers.

He noted that while one of the pioneer students had passed on, 35 successfully completed their studies. Alhaji Oba Ajikobi stated that accountability, credibility, and integrity remain the enduring values that unite old students of the institution and continue to reflect in their conduct and achievements.

He further recalled that the school was blessed with highly dedicated teachers who not only imparted knowledge but also instilled discipline and the virtues of living in a civilised society. The chairman urged members of the Class of 1986 to look beyond the celebration and continue supporting one another while contributing meaningfully to the growth and development of their alma mater.

Also speaking, the President of the GSS Malete Old Students' Association and former lecturer at the College of Education, Lafiagi, Dr Sunday Bolaji Adebara, commended the Class of 1986 for organising the reunion and celebrating four decades after graduating from the school.

He charged members of the set, both individually and collectively, to sustain their support for the association and contribute towards the academic and infrastructural development of GSS Malete, particularly in areas such as information technology facilities, staff quarters, and laboratory equipment.

Highlighting the event's empowerment initiative, several former classmates received cash support and empowerment tools from the Class of '86.

As part of the give-back programme, Mr Samuel Ige Ayeni, a member of the class, donated sewing machines and other skill acquisition equipment valued at millions of naira, in addition to providing financial assistance to the beneficiaries.