Kudos as Mrs. Cecilia Olokunlade, Principal Akure Secondary Commercial School Bags Icon of Education in Nigeria
In a resounding celebration of excellence and leadership, Mrs. Cecilia Funke Olokunlade, the distinguished Principal of Akure Secondary Commercial School, Ondo State, has been recognized with the prestigious Icon of Education in Nigeria Award. This honour celebrates her immense contributions to knowledge, education, and youth development.
The award ceremony took place on Sunday, December 29, 2024, during the Democrat News Magazine 2024 End-of-Year Public Lecture and Roll of Honours at the HANDEF Event Centre, adjacent to the Akure South Local Government Secretariat. The event attracted an impressive array of dignitaries, who praised Mrs. Olokunlade’s outstanding dedication to educational development in Ondo State.
Tributes to an Educational Icon, the Chairman of the occasion, Otunba Barr. Yemi Adetoyinbo, hailed Mrs. Olokunlade as a beacon of leadership and integrity. He commended her for her selflessness and commitment, urging others to emulate her exemplary service.
In his welcome address, Deacon Alaba Aliu, Publisher of Democrat News Magazine, lauded Olokunlade’s phenomenal impact in fostering unity and progress within the educational community. He noted how she approaches her work with the zeal of a personal ministry, driven by her unwavering faith and dedication.
The ceremony also featured an enlightening lecture titled “Entrepreneurial Mindset: Turning Ideas into Income,” delivered by Prince Tomi Ikuomola. The lecture provided practical insights to inspire youth to embrace opportunities, navigate economic challenges, and build sustainable livelihoods.
Honouring a Lifetime of Dedication, Mrs. Cecilia Funke Olokunlade’s journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and passion for education.
Born on July 19, 1966, into the Ologbosere family in Ijare, she began her educational journey at St. Peter’s, St. Michael’s, and St. Stephen’s Primary Schools between 1971 and 1976. She proceeded to Christ Apostolic Church Grammar School, Akure, and later earned her Senior School Certificate at Anglican Grammar School, Ijare, in 1983.
Mrs. Olokunlade furthered her education at the Ondo State College of Arts and Science, Ikare-Akoko, before gaining admission to Adeyemi College of Education through the Joint Matriculation Examination (JME). She earned her Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in Yoruba Studies between 1985 and 1988.
After completing her National Youth Service in 1989, she joined the Ondo State Teaching Service Commission as a Yoruba tutor in 1990. Her career has seen her serve in various schools across the state, taking on roles of increasing responsibility. In 2017, she was promoted to the rank of Principal and has since led several schools with distinction.
Currently serving as Principal of Akure Secondary Commercial School, Mrs. Olokunlade is celebrated for her transformative leadership. Her tenure has been marked by academic excellence, moral guidance, and a nurturing environment that fosters both intellectual and personal growth.
Beyond her professional achievements, Mrs. Olokunlade is a devoted wife to Mr. Kayode Olokunlade and a proud mother to God-fearing children.
The Icon of Education in Nigeria Award is a fitting tribute to Mrs. Olokunlade’s unparalleled contributions to education and her enduring legacy in Ondo State and beyond. It is a call to educators and leaders to emulate her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
As the applause continues to echo, it is clear that Mrs. Cecilia Funke Olokunlade has etched her name in the annals of educational history, inspiring future generations to strive for greatness.