by Jehmuel James
Sometimes, when we dream of being back in our old school environment, we may mistakenly see it as a sign of stagnation or delay in life. However, we rarely consider that it could be a call to revisit our past visions and goals. This kind of mind-set can lead people to distance themselves from an old students’ association or, if they do join, to remain inactive and disengaged.
It is always important to understand why we belong to a group. This awareness helps us define our sense of responsibility and participation. It also lightens any perceived burden we may feel the group imposes on us. There is little value in being part of a group without genuine commitment. Whether consciously or unconsciously, passive membership diminishes something within us.
Being a member of any old students’ association raises important questions: Why are we here? What is the purpose of this group? Several answers readily come to mind:
- To give back to our alma mater.
- To support the welfare of members.
- And more.
GIVING BACK TO OUR ALMA MATER
Every responsible student in our time, as Nigerian students, has, in some way, already given back to an alma mater—even during our time as students. We studied in an environment where we were not just learners but also caretakers, expected to cut grass and clean the school compound, despite having paid school fees. Ideally, a responsible government should provide a conducive learning environment, but in our case, we were often subjected to manual labour.
Latecomers were easy targets for extra cleaning duties. Those of us who lived far away endured long walks to school, only to face the taunts of senior students or the strict discipline of teachers waiting at the gate. Some of these students were simply unfortunate, while others were habitual late risers, jolted awake only by the sound of the nearby school bell.
A fortunate few had the privilege of taking public transport (Akoto) or riding bicycles to school. Meanwhile, those who lived nearby often escaped the lateness frenzy-though some were equally indifferent, waking only to the sound of footsteps from those of us who travelled long distances on foot.
Moreover, we were made to work on school farms, with the produce taken to the kitchen to be cooked for boarding students-students who had already paid for their meals. We farmed for grades and nothing more.
In this way, we had already given back to an education system that struggled merely to sustain itself rather than genuinely caring for students’ well-being. Many of our teachers lived in hardship. Though skilled and dedicated, they often had to take on side jobs just to support their families. Their frustration sometimes spilled over into the classroom, where they lashed out at students over the slightest provocation.
Even if the education system has improved today-which, frankly, is doubtful-those old legends, our teachers and mentors, deserve to be recognised and rewarded. Giving back to them is not just a noble act; it is a necessary one.
WHY AN OLD STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION?
An old students’ association is a gathering of individuals who once shared common experiences, struggles, and aspirations-people who, at one point, envisioned the future together, only to be scattered by fate and destiny. Coming together allows us to revisit those shared dreams, count our blessings, reflect on our struggles, and see where life has taken each of us.
In my own close circle back then, our shared goal was to become chartered accountants. We studied together, walked to school together, and encouraged one another. I still remember the day I decided to join the seminary. Niyi, one of my friends, looked at me in shock and asked, “Femi, you want to be a reverend father? What about our dream of becoming chartered accountants? You mean you won’t have children of your own?” He was bewildered by my choice, but today, I’m sure he is proud of what God is doing in and through me in my ministry.
An old students’ group helps us reconnect and reignite old dreams—if they are still realistic and feasible. Personally, I am guilty of losing touch with many old friends from school. It amazes me how we simply drifted apart and lost communication without any real reason. Life’s struggles have a way of breaking common visions and setting people on different paths. That is why reconnecting is important—it helps us cherish old memories and rekindle lost bonds.
*THE OLD STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION: A PILLAR OF SUPPORT
An old students’ association serves as a strong pillar of support for its members. Some of our classmates dropped out of school due to financial struggles or family problems, while others abandoned the dreams we once set together because of life’s pressures. Reconnecting is an opportunity to help our colleagues get back on their feet. Some may not only need financial assistance but also psychological and spiritual support.
However, God has a way of bringing people together. Today, our members include lawyers, doctors, priests, engineers, businessmen, accountants, lecturers, teachers, professors, civil servants and more. It is disheartening to see our mates struggling while we remain silent. While it is true that some classmates were never serious about their studies, life itself is a great teacher. By now, they have surely learned the value of education after seeing where their peers have reached.
As an old students’ association, we are called to be grateful for how far we have come, to help others rise, to support our teachers, and to create a better learning environment for current students who may be facing the same struggles we once did. The government of our time and that of today are not so different in their shortcomings.
Giving back should be seen as a humanitarian effort-an opportunity to improve the lives of those coming after us. Anyone called to serve in such a group should consider themselves fortunate. It is a vast world, and through our contributions, we can make a real impact. By supporting learners, we shape lives. Education imparts knowledge, and knowledge remains power.
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