Giving back to one’s source took centre stage at Government College, Lagos, as the 1985 set of the school’s old boys’ association donated 200 chairs, refurbished key facilities and rewarded outstanding teachers and students in a bid to strengthen learning and preserve the legacy of the college.

In her remarks at the ceremony, the principal, Mrs. Elizabeth Olokodana, expressed joy over the new furniture, reminding that comfortable seating plays a major role in teaching and learning.

According to her, when students have chairs, they are more eager to attend classes, concentrate, and remain in school throughout the day.
Olokodana urged the students to maximise the opportunities made available by the old boys, adding that the association consistently supports the school through awards, furniture, and other learning materials. She also encouraged the students to stay focused on their studies so that they can also be celebrated in future.

Coordinator of the 1985 set, Mr. Ohiole Akhibi, described the intervention as a passion driven duty to the school that shaped them. He said the camaraderie among old boys remains the fuel behind their continued contributions, adding that the goal is not showmanship but genuine impact on students and teachers.

Akhibi explained that the set supports academic excellence yearly by rewarding the best teachers and students
an initiative he said has significantly improved classroom performance. He added that the chair donation, library books, and repair of a failed borehole were based on specific needs identified through feedback from the school management.

He noted that although the projects run into millions of naira, funding came from an endowment drive held earlier in the year, where old boys and members of the public contributed.

The group, he said, channelled the resources into essential projects that directly enhance students’ learning experience. A member of the 2007 set, Emmanuel, delivered a safety message during the event, warning students against playing football on the expressway beside the school.

He emphasised that the road is used to test vehicles at high speed, making such activities extremely dangerous. Emmanuel reminded the students that the school now enjoys improved infrastructure through the combined efforts of various old boys’ sets.

He urged them to take their academics seriously, avoid fights, respect their teachers, and remember to contribute to the school’s growth in the future.

The award is a catch them young programme targeted at Junior secondary one students. The first three students from their promotion results are recognised and awarded prizes, and a certificate, while the best teacher is determined by all the promoted junior secondary students by vote.