Pupils, parents and teachers of Pampers Private School, Surulere, Lagos, were full of excitement as the institution celebrated its 30th anniversary last Friday.
Those who attended the Thanksgiving Service held at the school’s assembly ground were treated to music, drama and poetry presentations by the pupils.
The pupils joyfully sang hymns of thanksgiving amidst prayers and scripture reading. During the musical presentation, the teachers, dressed in grey apparels with a touch of red, filed to the podium from two aisles while two of them sang the solo of Whitney Houston’s “I believe the children are the future.”
The others joined in the singing on the stage, and, as the song ended, filed back to their seats, hugging the pupils as they went along.
Mrs. O.A Aderonmu, who stood in for her mother and founder of the school, Mrs. Dolapo Odunlami, thanked the teachers and parents for their support and contribution, which, she noted, had contributed to the institution’s success.
“At this moment in time, with a heart filled with gratitude, admiration, pride and joy, I would like to acknowledge some special members of staff, who have served this school for 20 years and above. Thank you for your years of sacrifice, loyalty and dedication,” she said.
Odunlami, who also commended the parents for their belief in the school, appreciated the pupils for cooperating with the teachers and the school management for impacting them positively for academic and moral growth.
Aderonmu, after delivering her mother’s message, also applauded the proprietress for her courage, determination, resourcefulness and hard work, which, she noted, propelled her to start and nurture the school.
Aderonmu, who is also the director, quality assurance of the school, later called out more than 20 teaching and non-teaching staff some of whom had been with the school since it was established April 23, 1983, to join her in cutting the anniversary cake.
Mrs Odunlami was also eulogised by some of the long-serving teachers who said they remained with the school because of her nurturing attribute.
The longest serving teacher, Mrs. Christiana Iwoka, who said she would mark her 30th year on January 9, described Odunlami as an ideal employer.
“I think I find joy working with Mrs Odunlami. In payment of salaries, she does not delay. As a teacher, she provides all the teaching aids you need to teach. She gives opportunity for further education. I came in with a Grade II certificate and I am proud to say I am a graduate today,” she said.
