We are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievements of two students from St. Anne's School, Molete, Ibadan, who recently made waves at the 2021 Queen's International Commonwealth Competition. Mariam Lawal, a final-year student, and her classmate Deborah Olatunji showcased their talent and determination, earning bronze and silver awards, respectively, amidst fierce competition from participants around the globe.
Their remarkable performance has not gone unnoticed. The Educational Advanced Centre (EAC) in Ibadan, a leading private institution for Cambridge Advanced Level education, has awarded both students full scholarships for their Advanced Level studies. This opportunity is a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Sharing their experiences, Mariam and Deborah credited their teachers, whom they view as their loco parentis, for their success. They praised the educators for being academically sound in their subjects and for creating a stress-free learning environment. 'At St. Anne's School, teaching and learning do not end until every student, including those who may need extra help, comprehends the topic,' they asserted. 'This commitment enhances our academic performance.'
The duo also acknowledged the significant role played by the St. Anne's School Old Girls Association (SSASOGA) in supporting academic and infrastructure development at the school. They noted that the association has made a lasting impact, providing a legacy for current and future students to emulate.
Mariam shared that it was SSASOGA that introduced them to the International Essay Competition organized by the office of the Queen of England. 'The association facilitated and coordinated all activities related to the program with invaluable support from our teachers and the school principal,' she explained. The 2021 competition focused on the theme of coronavirus, and both students registered to participate. Mariam proudly won a bronze medal, while Deborah earned the silver award. 'I can boldly say that St. Anne's School, despite being a public school in Oyo State, provides us with a quality academic and moral education,' she stated.
They expressed their gratitude to the management of the Educational Advancement Centre for the scholarship recognizing their impressive performance in the international competition.
Mr. Oluwagbemiga Olatunji, one of the parents of the awardees, echoed the sentiments regarding the quality of education and moral standards upheld at St. Anne's School. He emphasized that if successive governments at both federal and state levels commit to improving public education—through infrastructure, teacher training, and functional curricula—many public schools could regain their status as incubators of future leaders.
Commending the contributions of SSASOGA, Mr. Olatunji remarked that parents are essential stakeholders in education and should actively participate in school management. He encouraged parents to engage in their children's academic journeys to ensure they receive well-rounded moral and educational guidance.
As we applaud Mariam and Deborah, we are reminded of the incredible potential within our school community and the bright futures that lie ahead for all our students. Congratulations to these young achievers!