By Uredo Omale
Kogi State Polytechnic Staff School, Lokoja, came alive with celebration on Wednesday 23 July, 2025, as it hosted its 4th Graduation Speech and Prize-Giving Ceremony.
The event attracted a large gathering of dignitaries, staff, students, parents and well-wishers who came together to celebrate the academic achievements of the year and honor the graduating pupils.
In her welcome address, the Head Teacher, Mrs. Aisha Obansa, warmly received guests and expressed joy at the successful conclusion of another academic session. Reflecting on the school’s progress, she proudly stated that the institution had made remarkable strides, crediting the dedication and hard work of the staff.
Mrs. Obansa extended heartfelt appreciation to the Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, for his unwavering support and commitment to the school’s growth. She also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the school board under the leadership of Dr. Tunde Anthony Puke.
Highlighting some of the school’s major accomplishments, the Head Teacher announced that the Junior Secondary School 3 (JSS 3) students achieved an impressive 88% pass rate in the Basic Examination Certificate, while Grade 5 pupils recorded an 89% success rate in entrance examination.
The school also made headlines at a recent art exhibition competition at the National Gallery of Art, securing victories in six (6) categories and earning the prestigious title of Overall Best in the State.
Mrs. Obansa further revealed that several pupils who had previously been withdrawn from the school had returned and used the opportunity to appeal for continued support; “I appeal to us all as partners in progress to help us realize the dream of having befitting classroom blocks for our secondary section, which is currently under construction.” she said.
Delivering remarks on behalf of parents, Mallam Abubakar Waziri, Chairman of the Parent’s Teacher’s Association (PTA), expressed gratitude to the Rector for his visionary leadership and called on parents to maintain strong partnership with the school to ensure sustained growth.
“We also recognize the commitment of the school’s staff,” he added.
Dr. Tunde Anthony Puke, Chairman of the School Board, applauded the Rector’s vision and recalled the school’s humble beginnings; “We started with just one pupil, and today, we have a thriving school with remarkable academic outcomes.
However, we aim for 100% success in future examinations,” he remarked.
In his address, Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, the Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, described the occasion as a “happy moment in the life of this institution.”
He praised Dr. Puke for his service-oriented leadership, passion and recounted the school’s journey from concept to reality.
“It began as an idea, and today we face the challenge of space due to our rapid growth. That is the power of vision when pursued with courage,” he said.
Prof. Usman lauded the school’s prudent management of resources and charged the School Board and PTA to reach out to well-placed alumni and stakeholders to support the completion of the ongoing classroom blocks.
The Rector concluded by thanking parents for their support and congratulated the graduating pupils and students.
Highlights of the event was the presentation of prizes to outstanding pupils and students, along with generous donations toward the completion of the new classroom block; signaling hope for even greater milestones in the years ahead.
Uredo Omale
