Yinka ADENIRAN

The Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, Most Rev. Felix Alaba Job, has renewed calls on government to return missionary schools to their original owners, urging alumni to take responsibility for restoring the lost glory of their alma mater.

Archbishop Job made the appeal at the weekend in Ikire, Osun State, during a thanksgiving Mass and the dedication of the newly renovated chapel of Fatima College, Ikire. The institution, established in January 1956, was founded by the Society of African Missions (SMA) of the Catholic Church.

The chapel renovation was undertaken by the 1976 set of the school as part of activities marking its 70th anniversary.

The cleric noted that government alone could not address the numerous challenges confronting the education sector, stressing the need for stronger collaboration with the private sector.

Addressing members of the Fatima College Old Boys’ Association, Archbishop Job urged them to rise up and advocate the return of missionary schools, including Fatima College, to their original owners and former standards.

He said, “The school is celebrating its 70th anniversary but do you like what you see today? I challenge you to arise, wake up and never sit back in this pursuit of the school return, so that it can shine as before.”

Archbishop Job expressed optimism that the school would regain its freedom and original identity if the alumni refused to relent in their efforts.

He also cautioned the students of the college to focus on their academics and avoid what he described as the lustful distractions of the world.

 “Your future is in your hands and that God is with you. If you face your studies, God will surely reward you but if you follow the world of today, you will be lost,” he said.

The Archbishop further urged the students to always remember their alma mater and uphold its godly legacy,” adding that: “Difficulties shouldn’t overtake us, but we should always overtake our difficulties. May our youths rise up above the useless things they pursue today and become better.”