ZAINAB JUNAID
As part of the commitment to support Community Development and Social Responsibility, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of SIFAX Group, has again engaged in another remarkable act of philanthropy, donated a fully equipped building to his alma mater, Baptist Grammar School, Idi-Ishin, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The building features a mini-conference room, staff toilets, a Home Economics laboratory, as well as an accommodation facility for corps members deployed to the school.
The commissioning ceremony, held at the school premises on Thursday, 14th September, 2024, was attended by members of the Baptist Grammar School Idi-Ishin Old Students Association (BAGOSA), teaching and non-teaching staff, representatives from the Oyo State Ministry of Education, students and a delegation from SIFAX Group.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, represented by Mrs. Wunmi Eniola-Jegede, Group Coordinating Director, emphasised the importance of creating sustainable impact in education and beyond.
His words, “Ladies and gentlemen, I firmly believe that education is the bedrock of any prosperous society. Every great society is built on the dreams and aspirations of young people—dreams that need nurturing and a conducive environment to blossom. A conducive learning environment is not a luxury; it is a necessity. By providing this facility, we are creating a space where future leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers will be shaped, influenced and developed.
“This facility will serve as a place where students can explore, learn and re-learn. But, more importantly, it is a space where they will build confidence to dream big and aspire for a brighter future.
“My commitment to this project is not just about bricks and mortar—it is about hope and impact, it is about ensuring that no child feels limited by their circumstances, it is about giving back to a community that instilled so much in me and many others, it is about doing my part to create a ripple effect of positive change”, he stated.
Representatives from the school, alumni association, SIFAX Group, and Oyo State Ministry of Education lauded this initiative, emphasizing its transformative impact on the school community.
The school principal, Mr Eyitayo Alade Bamidele, noted that the donation was a timely gesture, further describing it as a “utility building”.
He also expressed his gratitude to the donor and SIFAX Group for their support and responsiveness during the course of the project.“When I proposed to the Chairman, SIFAX Group about donating a building to the school, he welcomed the idea and started funding it immediately,”he added.
On her part, Mrs Jaiyeola Lewis, President of the Baptist Grammar School Idi-Ishin Old Students Association, lauded the development, while encouraging alumni to remain committed to improving the state of the learning facilities in their alma mater.
“Well, we know that government efforts are commendable but we do understand that the government cannot do it alone”, she added.
The building is expected to be fully operational with immediate effect, with plans for additional support to ensure its maintenance and utilisation.
This initiative aligns with SIFAX Group’s commitment to community development and social responsibility, reinforcing its dedication to creating sustainable impact in education and beyond.
