By IDOWU H.A. & AMODU T.O. — Lagos
In a shining example of alumni innovation and purposeful community-building, the Sham-El-Deen Grammar School Alumni Association (SGS Alumni) has launched a remarkable blueprint for institutional legacy and member empowerment. Under the visionary leadership of Engr. Dr. Idowu Hamed Ademayowa, the association has embraced a dynamic framework featuring structured governance and Communities of Practice (CoPs), a concept now driving professional growth, cultural exchange, and deeper connections across generations.
A Groundbreaking Structure for Lasting Impact
The organizational framework of SGS Alumni is progressive and robust. At the helm is the Board of Trustees, which provides strategic oversight and guidance to the association’s endeavors. Supporting the board is the Central Executive Committee (CEC), led by the President, which manages the administrative affairs. Legislative functions are carried out by the Central Working Committee (CWC), chaired by the Speaker, to ensure transparency and accountability. Each graduating set or regional group is represented through localized branches, which are managed by Chairmen who maintain close ties with grassroots members. This thoughtful arrangement fosters inclusive leadership and encourages active participation.
Communities of Practice: Where Passion Meets Purpose
Central to the association’s engagement strategy is the introduction of Communities of Practice, where alumni unite around shared interests and professional pursuits. These groups include SGS Alumni in Diaspora, SGS Alumni Citizen Developers, SGS Alumni Like-Minds for Tourism, SGS Alumni Health Care Practitioners, and the SGS Alumni Society of Engineers. Among them, the SGS Alumni Like Minds for Tourism stands out for its vibrancy and cultural outreach. This group is coordinated by Mr. Amodu Taofeek Olorunjedalo and led by the Association’s President, who also serves as the Mayor of the group. Their activities promote wellness, heritage exploration, and camaraderie through purposeful tourism.
Tourism with a Heart: Exploring Nigeria’s Wonders
In recent months, the SGS Alumni Like Minds for Tourism CoP has undertaken enriching excursions that combine leisure with cultural education. They have visited Landmark Beach in Lagos, a serene coastal destination in Victoria Island renowned for its recreation and social atmosphere. Labule Restaurant, celebrated for its rustic ambience and authentic Nigerian cuisine, has hosted members at its Ikorodu branch. The historic Olumo Rock in Abeokuta has offered participants panoramic views and a connection to Egba heritage, while the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library has provided a profound glimpse into Nigeria’s democratic journey and former President Obasanjo’s legacy. The group has also enjoyed storytelling through film at Dream Park & Cinemas in Ikorodu where they watched a popular Nigerian movie titled “Iyalode”. The CoP members have also immersed themselves in nature at LUFASI Park in Lekki, a preserve dedicated to environmental conservation. The group met other adventurers from other countries, participated in various games and had some fun at the park.
Future expeditions are set to include visits to Ikogosi Warm Springs in Ekiti State, where warm and cold waters flow side by side in a breathtaking geological display, and the multi-tiered Erin Ijesha Waterfalls in Osun State, known for its spiritual ambiance and hiking trails. These trips are often aligned with quarterly birthday celebrations, lending a festive and personalized touch to each gathering.
Setting a National Example
The SGS Alumni Association’s model of structured leadership and interest-based collaboration is fast becoming a benchmark for alumni groups across Nigeria. By cultivating professional development, celebrating cultural heritage, and fostering meaningful relationships, the association is not merely preserving its legacy, it is actively inspiring a transformative future.
