The Cornerstone Group of Schools, Oyo, came alive with joy, nostalgia, and heartfelt celebration as the institution bade farewell to its graduating class in a two-day event that combined glamour, culture, and deep inspiration. The grand send-off began with the much-anticipated Campfire/Awards Night on Friday, July 25, followed by an emotional Valedictory Service on Saturday, July 26, marking the end of an era for the young graduates.
The Campfire Night was a vibrant mix of fun and camaraderie. Graduands, joined by their parents, danced around the glowing flames, reliving cherished memories from their hostel life during the extension period. Parents participated in exciting games, while breathtaking choreography from students lit up the night. Awards recognizing unique personalities — including Best Smile, Most Dependable, Fashionista, Super Friends, Foodie, Event Planner, Class Comedian, and Parents’ Pet — were presented, drawing cheers and laughter from the audience.
The next day, the Valedictory Service brought together parents, teachers, alumni, and well-wishers in a dignified yet spirited ceremony. The program opened with the national, state, and school anthems, setting a tone of unity and purpose. The school choir’s stirring performance drew a standing ovation. The Chairman of the Day, Alh. (Dr.) R.A. Abdulsalam, Provost of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo — represented by Dr. R. Kehinde — delivered an inspiring welcome address reflecting on the graduates’ academic and personal growth from junior secondary to this defining moment.
Academic excellence took center stage as students were recognized for top performance in various subjects, alongside awards for sports, arts, leadership, and community service. Unique honors such as Early Bird, Tech Whiz, Most Improved, Golden Presence, Extra Mile, and Sportsman Award celebrated students’ resilience, versatility, and positive impact.
In moving farewell speeches, Senior Prefect Boy Okunlola AbdulMalik and Senior Prefect Girl Oloruntobi Joy shared personal reflections, celebrating the friendships, lessons, and challenges that shaped their journey. Their heartfelt words drew both laughter and tears from the audience.
Guest Speaker Dr. Sylvester Eze challenged the graduates with a thought-provoking address on “Youth, The Rise of Immoral Shortcuts, and Nigeria’s Get-Rich-Syndrome.” He urged them to shun illegal means of acquiring wealth and to uphold integrity in all pursuits.
Principal Dr. Adedayo Ojo encouraged the outgoing class to face the future with courage, discipline, and a commitment to excellence, emphasizing that the school’s core values — respect, perseverance, and moral uprightness — would guide them toward success.
Cultural performances and choreography from both graduating and junior students added vibrancy to the day, reflecting the school’s blend of academic rigor and creative expression. Proprietress Mrs. Beatrice Ojo expressed heartfelt appreciation to parents and the PTA Chairperson Mr. Leke Adedigba for their unwavering support, highlighting the essential partnership between home and school in shaping student success.
The event closed on a symbolic note with ceremonial songs from the school choir and a final rendition of the school anthem. Dressed elegantly in white and black ceremonial attire, the graduates walked out with pride and hope, ready to embrace the next phase of their lives.
In a post-event interview with Solidstarnews, School Manager Mr. Babatunde Ojo described the celebration as “a bridge to new beginnings”, affirming his confidence that the graduates would leave indelible marks on society.
