The Holy Child College Old Girls Association (HCCOGA) has announced the launch of an N800 million fundraising campaign as part of the school’s 80th-anniversary celebrations.

The initiative aims to support key projects, including the purchase of tablets and digitalisation of its mentoring curriculum workbooks in the school’s leadership empowerment program, establishing a coding and robotics laboratory, funding scholarships for indigent students, and upgrading the school hall and chapel with modern multimedia equipment.

Speaking at a press briefing yesterday, the Old Girls Association President, Titilayo Akisoya, emphasised the importance of the anniversary as a time of reflection, renewal, and giving back.

She stated that the school which was founded on April 9, 1945, by the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, is one of Nigeria’s leading Catholic girls’ secondary schools, and has over the past eight decades, built a legacy of academic excellence, moral discipline, and leadership development, producing accomplished alumni across various fields.

“This milestone is not just about celebrating our past; it’s about shaping the future. We are calling on all alumni, well-wishers, and stakeholders to join us in making a meaningful impact on the next generation of leaders,” she said.

The 80th-anniversary celebrations, spanning six months, feature a series of events designed to honor the school’s heritage and foster community engagement. Activities include a health and wellness walk, a community health outreach in Obalende, a literary and debating event, and a gala night, where distinguished alumni, including those over 90 years old, will be honored.

Akisanya highlighted the association’s efforts in expanding its global alumni network, with established chapters in the UK, North America, and Nigeria, and plans to formally launch an Abuja chapter.

She added that with ongoing outreach efforts through social media and other platforms, membership is expected to exceed 2,000 across the world.

Vice President 1, Abimbola Akinajo, mentioned that the fundraising initiative will play a crucial role in advancing STEM education at the school, particularly through the planned coding and robotics laboratory.

According to Akisoya, it aligns with the association’s vision to strengthen the school’s academic offerings, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

She also emphasised the impact of the school’s mentoring program, which has been running for eight years, equipping students with leadership skills, career guidance, and exposure to various professional fields.

“We are committed to shaping the future of the girl child, starting with those educated at Holy Child College. We want a well-rounded institution that excels not only in the arts and literature but also in the sciences,” Akinajo stated.

The association has called on alumni worldwide to contribute to the fundraising drive, underscoring the importance of preserving the school’s legacy while preparing students for the demands of the modern world.

The grand finale of the anniversary celebrations is scheduled for July 20, with the HCCOGA Annual General Meeting and elections set to determine the next phase of leadership for the association.