He disclosed this during a Christmas Carol and Thanksgiving service held at the school premises on Thursday.
Addressing the students, Surveyor Olajide emphasized the importance of education in shaping their future.
Drawing from his personal experiences, he shared the struggles he faced while growing up and how he was motivated to build a successful career.
“When I was your age, the challenges I went through made me who I am today and still dreaming higher. You must learn to use your brain, read well, and think deeply. By so doing, you will add value to yourself,” he said.
He expressed concern over the bad reading culture among students and urged them to take their studies seriously.
“These days, a lot of children no longer read. You must train yourself to develop this habit because you are the architects of your own fortune and misfortune,” he advised.
Olajide also stressed the importance of punctuality and discipline, saying, “Come to school on time and read your books as if your life depends on it.”
Surveyor Olajide also highlighted the community’s commitment to support the students through skill acquisition and entrepreneurship programs.
“We, as a community, will go out of our way to provide assistance in terms of skill acquisition and career development. Whether it’s football, fashion, or movie directing, we are bringing resource people to train you students.”
He acknowledged the support of the Olowu of Owu Oba Prof. Saka Adelola Matemilola, who facilitated his visit to the school, and urged the community to collaborate more effectively in addressing the school’s needs.
The Senior School Principal, Mrs. Nike Odusanya, also emphasized the importance of community support during the event.
She highlighted the school’s pressing challenges, including inadequate classrooms and insufficient security
“This school serves the community, and it is expected that the community should rally around the government to provide better facilities for the students. We need at least two additional classrooms and improved security to create a conducive learning environment,” she said.
Mrs. Odusanya appealed to the community to address the jungle within the school premises, which she identified as a distraction for students.
“With proper security in the jungle, we can drive students back to their classrooms and unlock the school’s full academic potential,” she added.
In her speech, the Junior School Principal, Mrs. Olubunmi Salami, expressed gratitude to the guests and organizers of the Christmas carol event. She prayed that the occasion would leave a lasting impact on everyone present.
The President of the school’s alumni association, Sonola Ismail, represented by the National Secretary, Mr. Popoola Opeoluwa, commended Surveyor Olajide’s encouragement to the students.
He advised the students to remain focused, determined, and disciplined, assuring them that success is attainable through hard work.
“As the old students’ association, we will continue to partner with the government, school management, and other stakeholders to provide the necessary amenities for a conducive learning environment,” he affirmed.
