Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos, has encouraged its students to embrace innovation, collaboration, and excellence in all their endeavours.
Speaking at the 27th Founder’s Day and prize-giving event, Principal Dr Adebisi Layiwola, revealed the remarkable accomplishments of the students, who excelled not only academically but in various extracurricular activities.
According to her, the school’s theme for the 2023/2024 academic year, “Innovate. Collaborate, Excel,” explains the importance of these values, which have been brought to life through the support of parents and the hard work of students and staff.
She said, “At Dowen College, Lekki, we inspire our students to innovate, collaborate, and excel in all their endeavours, forging pathways to a brighter future through creativity and teamwork.”
Layiwola mentioned that the Class of 2024 achieved impressive results, with a 97.4 per cent credit pass rate in the WASSCE, including 82.2 per cent distinction grades and 45 per cent A1 results.
She added, “Students received scholarships from prestigious institutions worldwide, including the Illinois Institute of Technology and Howard University, with a generous donation from Group Managing Director of Alpha Morgan Capital, funding scholarships for valedictorians over the next five years, Mr Ade Buraimo.
“The academic year also saw a robust array of co-curricular activities, from sports to leadership development programs. Students participated in a leadership program at the Sea School, and Junior Secondary School students engaged in career development experiences at leading organisations.
“The school’s commitment to excellence was recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Beacon of Safety Award from the Lagos State government and the British Council International Schools Award for 2022-2025.”
Layiwola introduced the new theme, “One School, One Vision, Endless Possibilities,” encouraging unity and collective potential, saying innovative programs would enhance critical thinking, creativity, and entrepreneurial skills among students, preparing them for future leadership roles.
The keynote speaker, Chairman of the Board of Governors, Institute of Directors Centre for Corporate Governance, Mr Urum Eke, also advised the pupils not to give up on their dreams, but to unleash the power and ingenuity in them.
He urged school authorities to leverage alumni power, partner with the corporate world, and create endowments for sustainability.
Eke announced the establishment of an award scholarship for the best student in Mathematics, which he would sponsor for five years.
The Venerable Henry Adelegan of the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos, in his exhortation, said success is the result of attitude, a deliberate action.
He counselled the pupils to be focused and diligent. Outstanding pupils were given prizes and scholarships.
Dignitaries at the event were the Head of Social Performance at First E&P Development Company Ltd., Mrs Ayebatonye Basuo, and a newly appointed Senior Advocate of Nigeria and alumnus from the Class of 2008, Mr Mofe Tayo-Oyetibo.
The event also honoured the founder of Dowen College, Dr. Olumide Phillips, and his wife, Dr Toyin Phillips, along with Dr Taiwo Borisade, Chairman of the Board of Governors.