Yejide Old Girls Celebrate Alma Mater's 70th Anniversary

The Yejide Girls Grammar School Old Girls Association (YOGA) recently converged in Ibadan to mark a significant milestone: the 70th anniversary of their alma mater. The celebration, held on Monday, brought together alumnae from various graduating sets and professional backgrounds to reflect on seven decades of academic excellence and shared history. The event served not only as a reunion but also as a testament to the enduring impact the institution has had on the lives of countless women who have gone on to excel in fields such as politics, the judiciary, finance, and education.

A central part of the celebration was a thanksgiving service held at the Cathedral Church of St. David, Kudeti, Ibadan. The service was graced by notable dignitaries and distinguished old girls, including Chief (Mrs.) Olufunmilayo Olunloyo, a former First Lady of Oyo State and member of the 1961 set. Other prominent attendees included Justice Oluwatoyin Abodunde, President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Ekiti State; Dame Olufunmike Ogundana, a retired Director at the Central Bank of Nigeria; and Otunba Iyabo Alabi, a retired Deputy Director of the University College Hospital, Ibadan.

During the service, the Provost of the Cathedral, Very Rev. Akin Alade, delivered a sermon centered on the theme of gratitude. Citing scriptural references, he urged the congregation to maintain a thankful heart regardless of life's challenges, noting that gratitude opens doors for joy and strengthens faith. He also encouraged the attendees to honor the memory of those who had passed away by living fulfilling lives and appreciating the gift of the present.

The National President of the Yejide Old Girls Association, Mrs. Mojisola Giwa-Osagie, expressed her profound gratitude for the success of the event. She specially acknowledged the Cathedral Church of St. David for maintaining a strong relationship with the school over the years, despite the changes in administration. "We are happy, and we are proud to say this is our church, and we are part of it," she remarked, highlighting the spiritual and historical ties that bind the school to the church.

The anniversary festivities concluded with a reception within the school premises, offering the old girls a chance to reconnect, network, and reminisce about their formative years. For many, like Chief Mrs. Olunloyo, the gathering was a rare and wonderful opportunity to celebrate unity and sisterhood. The event underscored the association's commitment to supporting their alma mater and ensuring that the legacy of Yejide Girls Grammar School continues to thrive for future generations.