The Chairman, Oyo State Teaching Service Commission, Mrs Olubukola Oladipo has urged students in the state to always consider education as vehicle of knowledge acquisition adding that it not about passing examinations alone.
The hard working technocrat sent out this message to students at the grand finale of the 2026 Summer School Coaching Programme for students at Ibadan South West Local Government Area during the week.
Mrs Oladipo who was represented at the event by Dr Olatunji Oladunni also used the opportunity to encourage the students to discover their God-given talents and develop them so that they will be useful to their family, community and nation.
Read the full text of her speech here:
BEING A GOODWILL MESSAGE DELIVERED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF TESCOM OYO STATE AT THE GRAND FINALE OF THE 2026 SUMMER SCHOOL COACHING PROGRAMME, IBADAN SOUTH WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT
I am deeply honoured and delighted to be here today as a Special Guest at this memorable occasion.
I sincerely commend the Executive Chairman for his foresight, commitment, and investment in the education and future of our young people through this Summer School Coaching Programme.
This initiative is a clear demonstration that meaningful leadership is not only about providing infrastructure but also about investing in the human capacity that will sustain and advance society.
Today, as we celebrate the successful completion of the programme, I urge us to remember that education is not merely about passing examinations. Education is about acquiring the knowledge, discipline, values, confidence, and critical-thinking abilities required to become responsible and productive citizens.
To our dear students, this programme is not the end of your learning; it is another beginning. The knowledge and skills you have acquired must become a foundation upon which you continue to build. Take your studies seriously. Read beyond your school notes. Ask questions. Learn from your mistakes. Develop good character alongside academic excellence, because knowledge without integrity cannot produce the kind of leaders our society needs.
The world you are growing into is changing rapidly. Technology, artificial intelligence, science, entrepreneurship, and innovation are transforming the way we live and work. Therefore, you must prepare yourselves not only to seek employment but also to become problem-solvers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and creators of opportunities.
I encourage every one of you to discover your talents and develop them. You may not all become doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, or administrators. Some of you may become great entrepreneurs, scientists, technologists, artists, farmers, writers, or leaders in fields that are yet to emerge. Whatever path you choose, pursue excellence and remain committed to continuous learning.
I also want to remind you that success is a journey, not an event. Do not be discouraged by temporary failure. A poor result today does not determine your future. What matters is your willingness to learn, improve, and try again. Be disciplined with your time, choose your friends wisely, respect your teachers and parents, and stay away from activities that can jeopardise your future.
To the parents and guardians, your role remains indispensable. The investment in a child’s education does not end with payment of school fees. Children need encouragement, guidance, supervision, good examples, and emotional support. Let us create homes where learning, discipline, honesty, and hard work are celebrated.
To our teachers and facilitators, I salute your dedication and sacrifice. Teaching is one of the most consequential responsibilities in any society because teachers help shape the minds that will eventually shape the society. I encourage you to continue inspiring these young people to dream, to think, and to believe in their capacity to make a difference.
Finally, I once again congratulate the Executive Chairman, Hon. Kehinde Adeyemi Akande, and the good people of Ibadan South West Local Government for successfully organising this laudable programme. I hope this initiative will continue to grow in scope and impact, reaching even more students and creating stronger opportunities for academic development and mentorship.
To our students, I leave you with three simple principles: Learn continuously, live responsibly, and lead by example.
Your future is not something you should merely wait for; your future is something you must prepare for and deliberately build.
May the knowledge gained through this programme translate into outstanding academic performance, good character, innovation, and service to humanity.
I congratulate all the participants on the successful completion of the 2026 Summer School Coaching Programme and wish you greater accomplishments in the years ahead.
Thank you, and God bless you all.
God bless Ibadan South West Local Government.
God bless Oyo State.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
