Golden Revival: Saint Augustine Comprehensive High School Unveils State-of-the-Art Science Laboratory

In a momentous occasion set to mark a significant leap in educational infrastructure and development, Saint Augustine Comprehensive High School in Oye-Ekiti is gearing up to inaugurate its long-awaited Science Laboratory Building on May 4th, 2024. The Ceremony will be graced by the esteemed presence of Ekiti State Governor, His Excellency Dr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, who will also be spearheading the launch of a N500 million development fund aimed at bolstering the School’s advancement initiatives.
The Science Laboratory, a cornerstone of academic excellence, was originally constructed nearly five decades ago to cater to the fundamental sciences of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. However, due to neglect and lack of proper maintenance, the building languished in disrepair, rendering it unusable for educational purposes.
Recognizing the dire need to revitalize their Alma Mater, the Saint Augustine Comprehensive High School Old Students’ Association embarked on a commendable journey to breathe new life into the dilapidated structure. Commencing reconstruction efforts approximately two years ago, the association invested a substantial sum of N50 million towards the refurbishment project. Despite these commendable efforts, the crucial aspect of procuring laboratory equipment, estimated at N30 million, remained a hurdle due to financial constraints.
The genesis of this transformative endeavor traces back to 2022 when a Visitation Panel, commissioned by the Old Students’ Association, shed light on the deplorable state of the Laboratory Building. Dr. Vincent Idowu Bamigboye, the Worldwide President of the Association, underscored the pivotal role of alumni contributions in driving the school’s progress over the past two decades. In a poignant statement, Dr. Bamigboye expressed gratitude to the generous benefactors who have continually supported the school’s endeavors, propelling it towards excellence.
The forthcoming commissioning ceremony will not only mark the culmination of arduous efforts but also herald a new era of academic enrichment and innovation. Dr. Bamigboye unveiled a grand vision for the School’s future, emphasizing the imperative of nurturing creative thinkers and fostering a conducive learning environment. As preparations for the School’s 50th anniversary loom on the horizon, plans are underway to institute a “Golden Anniversary and Beyond Committee” tasked with charting a comprehensive 10-year Development Roadmap.
Among the distinguished dignitaries set to grace the occasion are Dr. (Mrs) Kofoworola Aderiye, Commissioner for Education, Ekiti State; Otunba Babatunde Fajemirokun, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of AIICO Insurance PLC, who will serve as Guests of Honour. The event will be hosted by Honourable Oluwaseun Fakuade Commissioner for Innovation Innovation, Science, and Digital Economy, and Honourable Adesola Gold Adedayo, Commissioner for Youth Development, Ekiti State, serving as Chief Hosts. The Chairman of the Occasion is the current Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Prof Abayomi Sunday Fasina.
Adding Regal splendour to the affair, the Royal Fathers of the Day include the Oloye of Oye Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Michael Oluwole Adugbole 111; the Olora of Ora-Ekiti, Oba Peteru Ojo Daramola; and the Regent of Imojo Ekiti, Her Royal Majesty, Princess Mercy Ayomide Olatunji.
As anticipation builds and preparations reach a crescendo, Saint Augustine Comprehensive High School stands poised to reclaim its position as a beacon of educational excellence, embarking on a journey of rejuvenation and progress.