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By Damiete Braide
In the heart of Satellite Town, Lagos State, Lourdes Francis Schools recently celebrated a milestone that marked both the end of an academic year and its fifth anniversary.
The vibrant atmosphere of the graduation ceremony was charged with excitement as pupils, dressed in colorful gowns, gathered to celebrate their achievements and look forward to the future.
This event, a blend of celebration and reflection, brought together teachers, parents, and members of the community to honour the students’ hard work and the school’s ongoing commitment to excellence.
The ceremony was not just a farewell but also a celebration of what the students had accomplished and recognition of the school’s role in their academic and personal growth.
Mrs. Ann Olo, the proprietress of Lourdes Francis Schools, spoke of the school’s journey over the past five years, highlighting its transformation into a beacon of academic excellence and innovation. “We started with a vision to redefine education and prepare pupils to excel in an ever-evolving world,” she said.
“Our journey from humble beginnings to becoming a knowledge powerhouse has been remarkable, marked by a commitment to holistic education and community engagement.”
Olo emphasized the school’s dedication to fostering creativity and empowering students to become future leaders. She credited the teachers for their pivotal role in the pupils’ success, acknowledging their dedication, passion, and hard work.
“The achievements of our students are a testament to the belief that every Nigerian child can excel if given the right opportunities and supportive teachers,” she added. She noted that the school’s mission was not only to educate but also to nurture skills essential for students’ future advancement.
The event also served as an opportunity to appreciate the contributions of the teachers. The commitment of the educators was evident in the learning gains achieved by the students.
The educationist commended the teachers for their dedication, which had been instrumental in transforming the lives of the pupils.
Mrs. Doris Obeki, the school’s pioneer Headteacher, echoed Mrs. Olo’s sentiments and congratulated the graduates and their parents. She spoke of the school’s mission to provide a sound educational foundation that would enable students to succeed and become responsible future leaders.
“Our goal is to catch them young through sound education, equipping them with the skills to excel in their chosen fields,” she stated.
Obeki recalled the school’s beginnings with just 18 pupils and the challenges faced, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these hurdles, the school had carved a niche for itself, offering a curriculum modeled after the British system, and had become a sought-after institution for parents.
One of the highlights of the ceremony was the speech by Ms. Onyiyechi Onyeagusi, the best graduating pupil. She expressed her gratitude to the school for shaping her into a better person, academically and otherwise. Her success, she said, was a result of dedication to her studies and participation in co-curricular activities.
Parents also shared their appreciation, noting the significant academic and moral improvements in their children since enrolling in the school.
The celebration was further enlivened by a series of performances, including talk shows, drama, cultural displays, dance, and a taekwondo demonstration. The ceremony culminated in the presentation of gifts and awards to outstanding pupils, recognizing achievements across various categories. Additionally, the school’s 2024 yearbook was launched, capturing memories and milestones of the past academic year.
Lourdes Francis Schools continues to create opportunities for children to grow and explore their potential, embodying its mission to provide a nurturing and innovative educational environment.
