An atmosphere of excitement, nostalgia, and renewed friendship filled the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Staff School (ULSS) on Saturday, June 13, 2026, as former pupils gathered for a Meet and Greet session ahead of the school’s forthcoming 60th anniversary celebration.
The event, convened by Mrs. Kemi Modile, brought together former pupils from different generations, school administrators, members of the Board of Governors, parents, and other stakeholders of the ULSS.
For many attendees, the gathering was more than a reunion. It provided an opportunity to revisit cherished memories, reconnect with old friends, and reaffirm their commitment to an institution that played a significant role in shaping their formative years.
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of activities for the school’s Diamond Jubilee celebration by the Head Teacher, Mrs. Eunice Akinade.
Addressing the gathering, Mrs. Akinade expressed delight at the turnout and appreciation for the support the school has continued to receive from its alumni over the years. She noted that the anniversary would not only mark six decades of educational excellence but also celebrate the people, values, and achievements that have defined the institution’s journey.
She announced that anniversary activities would commence on Friday, October 2, 2026, with a pupils’ parade, followed by a press conference and a Teachers’ Day celebration.
Other events scheduled for the celebration include Cultural and International Days, a symposium and public lecture, project commissioning, a gala night and award ceremony, with the festivities culminating in a thanksgiving service at the Chapel of Christ Our Light.
Mrs. Akinade thanked members of the alumni community for their commitment to the anniversary celebration and acknowledged the support of the school’s management, Board of Governors, parents, and other stakeholders. She also commended Mrs. Modile for her dedication in bringing the alumni gathering to fruition.
Beyond discussions about the anniversary, participants toured the school’s facilities and deliberated on developmental initiatives aimed at strengthening the institution’s future.
During the inspection, Mrs. Akinade unveiled plans to rehabilitate existing structures across the school and disclosed plans for the construction of a dedicated school hall to accommodate assemblies, events, and other activities.
According to her, the absence of a hall continues to create significant challenges, particularly during the rainy season when outdoor assemblies are frequently disrupted.
“There have been occasions when assemblies had to be postponed because of rainfall,” she said, stressing the urgent need for a covered facility that would provide pupils and staff with a conducive environment for school activities.
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA), Comrade Sogo Olumide, called on stakeholders, parents, alumni, and friends of the institution to contribute meaningfully to the school’s growth and development.
He outlined several priority projects requiring intervention across the Akoka and Idi-Araba campuses. These include the re-roofing of school buildings and administrative offices, refurbishment of classrooms, acquisition of three coaster buses and three saloon cars, establishment of a well-equipped sick bay, creation of a modern music room, installation of solar panels and inverters, beautification and landscaping projects, refurbishment of the library, and the construction of a sports field pavilion.
Comrade Olumide noted that the forthcoming anniversary presents a unique opportunity for alumni and stakeholders to leave a lasting legacy through projects that will positively impact future generations of pupils.
Earlier, Mrs. Modile explained that the Meet and Greet was conceived as a deliberate effort to reconnect former pupils and strengthen the sense of community that has long been associated with the school.
Speaking on the theme, “Why We Are Here,” she emphasised the importance of preserving relationships and maintaining lifelong connections with institutions that have contributed significantly to personal growth and success.
She acknowledged the challenges involved in bringing together alumni across different generations, professions, and locations, but expressed satisfaction that the gathering had successfully reignited old friendships and created opportunities for meaningful engagement.
In her words: “We are here because this school is a part of our story. Regardless of where life has taken us, we share a common foundation. This gathering is an opportunity to reconnect, remember where we started, and think about how we can contribute to the future of the school.”
Other speakers encouraged alumni to use the anniversary celebration as a platform for deeper engagement, mentorship, collaboration, and support for the institution.
The event also featured lively interactions among participants, with many alumni sharing fond memories of their time at the school and exchanging ideas on how the alumni body can play a greater role in supporting its development.
Founded in 1966 to provide quality primary education for children within the University community, the University of Lagos Staff School has grown into one of Nigeria’s most respected primary educational institutions. Over the past six decades, it has built a reputation for academic excellence, discipline, character development, and holistic learning.
Report: Bayo Salau
Photographs: Bayo Salau
