ANCOPSS Ondo State 45th Annual Congress: A Call for Collaborative Efforts to Shape the Future of Education
In a momentous address at the ANCOPSS 45th Annual Congress, held at the Aquinas College Auditorium in Akure, Ondo State, Comrade Felix Ghan-Ebi Sone the President of the Ondo State Branch of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), reiterated the shared vision and commitment of all stakeholders to uplift the educational landscape in the state.
The theme of the ANCOPSS Ondo State 45th Annual Congress centred on “Reimagining School Leadership for the 21st Century: Embracing Responsibility, Innovation, Creativity, Collaboration, and Student-Centered Excellence.”
His address, which echoed both gratitude and a call for continued collaborative efforts, highlighted the significant strides the organization and its partners have made and underscored the critical role of quality education in shaping the future of Ondo State.
The gathering, he noted, represents the collective resolve to enhance educational standards across Ondo State, affirming that this unity is vital to creating a prosperous future for students, educators, and the broader community. “We are united by our passion for building an environment where education serves as a key to empowerment and progress,” Sone declared, encouraging all members to seize the opportunity to share best practices and engage in meaningful dialogue throughout the event.
Reflecting on the remarkable growth of ANCOPSS since its founding in 1956, Sone proudly noted the organization’s evolution from a modest 32 members to over 13,000 today. This expansion, he observed, has transformed ANCOPSS into a powerful force in shaping educational policies and advocating for the welfare of secondary school principals and their institutions across the country.
With a membership that spans the nation, ANCOPSS continues to provide a critical platform for principals to discuss shared challenges, collaborate on solutions, and advocate for policies that enhance the quality of education.
A central theme of Sone’s speech was the partnership between ANCOPSS and the Ondo State government, led by His Excellency, Governor Orimisan Lucky Ayedatiwa.
Some expressed his profound gratitude to the governor for his unwavering support, which has made the hosting of this congress possible. He highlighted the governor’s commitment to education, particularly through initiatives like the timely payment of salaries, the renovation and construction of schools, and the provision of funding for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) fees for all SSS 3 students in the state.
These efforts, he noted, demonstrate the government’s strong focus on the welfare of both students and teachers, creating an environment where educational excellence can thrive.
Comrade Sone also extended a warm welcome to Hon. Laolu Akindolire, the former Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology in Ondo State, acknowledging his critical role in advancing the state’s educational agenda. With a focus on digital innovation and pragmatic approaches to problem-solving, Akindolire has been instrumental in driving educational reforms that benefit students and teachers alike.
He also recognized the contributions of Mrs. Folasade Abimbola Adegoke, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education, for her tireless work in policy implementation, and praised the leadership of the Administrative Secretary of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) for his efforts in providing resources and capacity-building opportunities for educators in Ondo State.
The speech also paid tribute to the retired members of ANCOPSS, highlighting their invaluable wisdom and contributions to the organization’s success.
Comrade Sone expressed his deep appreciation for these veterans and other stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to improve the education system. Among the notable figures acknowledged was Pastor Adebayo Ajimuda, the immediate past president of ANCOPSS Ondo State, who now serves as the Tutor General of Ondo North Senatorial Zone.
His enduring commitment to the organization’s development continues to inspire others within the educational community.
In closing, he highlighted key pillars of strength such as unity, professional development, and advocacy, noting that these elements enable ANCOPSS to shape policies and ensure that education remains at the forefront of national development.
He also made specific requests for additional support from the government, including the recruitment of more teachers, professional development opportunities, and the creation of incentives like annual awards for outstanding educators.
He concluded by expressing his heartfelt gratitude to all those present, emphasizing that the collective efforts of the ANCOPSS community, supported by the state government, will undoubtedly lead to a brighter, more prosperous future for education in Ondo State. “Together, we are building leaders who will, in turn, build the leaders of tomorrow, Comrade Sone declared, as he called on all stakeholders to continue their work in creating an educational system that embodies excellence, inclusivity, and progress.