Archbishop Humphrey Olumakaiye College, Heritage City, Ilesa, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, held its Maiden Founder’s Day Celebration alongside the launch of a ₦20 million fundraising drive for the construction of ultra-modern science laboratories.
The event, presided over by Rt. Rev. Prof. Dapo Folorunso Asaju, Diocesan Bishop and Proprietor of the college, took place inside the Archbishop Ephraim Adebola Ademowo Hall of the Heritage City, Ilesa Anglican Diocese, attracted parents, friends of the institution, education stakeholders, church partners, and advocates of quality education. The gathering was both a celebration of the vision of the late Archbishop Humphrey Bamisebi Olumakaiye and a call to action to support the continued academic growth of the college.
In her welcome address, the College Principal, Chief Mrs. Josephine Yemisi Falope, expressed profound gratitude to God and appreciation to all guests for their unwavering support. She paid tribute to the late Archbishop Humphrey Bamisebi Olumakaiye, describing him as a servant of God, visionary leader, and passionate advocate of education and youth development.
Reflecting on his life and legacy, she noted that the late Archbishop was deeply rooted in faith, humility, discipline, and service. As a Bishop and later an Archbishop, he was known for his commitment to moral uprightness, academic excellence, and the belief that education remains a powerful tool for nation-building. According to her, Archbishop Olumakaiye consistently emphasized that schools must raise not only brilliant minds but also people of strong character.
She described the college as a living memorial to his enduring legacy, noting that every lesson taught and every life shaped within the institution continues to reflect his vision of godly leadership and sound education. “As we celebrate this Maiden Founder’s Day, we honour not just a name, but a life fully devoted to God, the Church, and humanity,” she said.
Speaking on the school’s development, the Principal highlighted the remarkable progress recorded since its establishment, despite limited resources. She acknowledged the dedication of teachers, the promise shown by students, and the unwavering support of parents, while stressing the urgent need to strengthen the school’s infrastructure to meet modern educational demands.
According to her, the core purpose of the fundraising initiative is the construction of ultra-modern science laboratories, which are critical to effective teaching and learning in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. She explained that well-equipped laboratories would enhance practical learning, improve students’ performance in WAEC and NECO examinations, prepare them for future careers in science and technology, and position the college as a centre of academic excellence.
She appealed to stakeholders to partner with the school in achieving the ₦20 million target, describing the project as a faith-based investment in the future of children and society. Citing Proverbs 22:6 and Haggai 1:8, she encouraged guests to support the initiative wholeheartedly, noting that every contribution, regardless of size, would make a lasting impact.
A major highlight of the celebration was an address by His Excellency, Sir Ambassador Gabriel Falase, aged 96, who reflected on the life and legacy of the late Archbishop Olumakaiye. He described the late cleric as an exceptional leader who excelled in both education and diocesan administration, adding that the Founder’s Day celebration was a fitting tribute to his enduring contributions. He commended the rapid development of the college and appealed to guests to donate generously towards the science laboratory project, while offering prayers for the continuous success of the institution.
The programme also featured a Bible reading from Proverbs 3:1–10, read by Agboola Priscilla, and a lecture delivered by Pastor Dr. Ajibola Fajojuto titled “Building Minds for Tomorrow: The Role of Functional Science Laboratories in Quality Education and Christian Stewardship.”
In his lecture, Pastor Fajojuto emphasized that laboratories are central to science education, stressing that no meaningful scientific learning or research can take place without functional and well-equipped laboratories. He noted that science represents the discovery of nature and must be supported with hands-on practical learning, adding that laboratories should account for at least 40 percent of science learning activities in secondary schools to guarantee quality education.
The event also featured presentations by students of the college, who showcased their talents and academic potential, further underscoring the need for improved learning facilities.
The celebration concluded with fundraising activities, as notable donors and guests made financial commitments in support of the ultra-modern science laboratory project.
Dignitaries in attendance HRM Oba Ilesanmi, Olorogoji of Orogoji; included Amb. and Lady G.A. Falase; Very Rev. D. I. Fadugba; Ven. I. O. Ayita; Very Rev. A. M. Fademi; Ven. A. T. Ajayi; Sir Taiwo Odebunmi, Mrs. Olufunke Fademi; Mrs Olufunke Ariyo among others.
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