The immediate past Principal of St. Anne’s School, Molete, Ibadan, Dr Oladunmbo Savage, has described Governor Seyi Makinde’s free education policy and prompt payment of salaries and pensions as the best and most commendable initiative in recent times.
Dr Savage stated this, on Wednesday, during the grand ceremony held in her honour to celebrate her 35 years of meritorious service in education and public service.
According to her, the governor’s education policy has significantly reduced the number of out-of-school children, alleviated poverty, empowered youths, and positioned Oyo State as a hub for educational tourism in Nigeria.
“Governor Makinde’s free education policy is the best. It has changed lives, restored dignity to public education, and made Oyo State a model for others to emulate,” Dr Savage affirmed.
The event, held at the school’s main hall, was graced by representatives of the Oyo State Ministry of Education, the Oyo State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), and the Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora (OID), as well as the management, staff, and students of St. Anne’s Schools, Molete.
It also drew dignitaries from across the education sector, alumni, parents, and friends of the institution, all gathered to honour Dr Savage for her exceptional leadership and enduring impact on education in Oyo State.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Permanent Secretary/Tutor General, TESCOM, Dr. Adesewa Yusuf, described Dr Savage as a distinguished educationist who has selflessly invested her time and resources in nurturing generations of students and advancing the goals of public education in the state.”
Similarly, speaking on behalf of the Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora (OID), Pastor (Mrs.) Christiana Aderibigbe lauded Dr. Savage for her devotion to duty, integrity, and humanitarian service.
“OID is proud to celebrate one of our own. Dr. Savage’s career is an inspiring model of dedication, service, and excellence,” Aderibigbe said.
An alumna of St. Anne’s School, where she obtained her West African School Certificate (1977–1982), Dr. Savage had the rare honour of returning to lead her alma mater as Principal of St. Anne’s Senior Secondary School II (2024–2025).
Since joining TESCOM in 1990, Dr. Savage has served in several schools across Oyo State, earning a reputation as a disciplined, innovative, and result-oriented educator. Her outstanding contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including: Best Teacher Award, Board of Governors, Eleyele Secondary School, Ibadan (1994); Best Article on Leadership, Exclusive Motivation (2016); Letter of Commendation, Oyo State Commissioner for Education (2022), and Queen’s International Essay Competition Recognition, among others.
Beyond administration, Dr Savage is a prolific writer and author of several inspirational books and a contributor to academic journals and publications both locally and internationally.
In her farewell remarks, Dr Savage expressed heartfelt appreciation to the management, staff, and students of St. Anne’s Schools for their unwavering support throughout her tenure.
“As I always tell you, my students, read diligently, work hard, and pray fervently. I have played my part, and I’m confident I’m leaving you in capable hands. I sincerely appreciate your love and cooperation,” she said.
The colourful ceremony featured tributes, cultural performances, and presentation of gifts in recognition of Dr. Savage’s distinguished service and lasting legacy in the Oyo State education sector.
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