David Adebanwo emerges one-day Principal at CAC Adu Memorial High School

By Jimisayo Adebiyi

History was made at CAC Adu Memorial High School, Akure, on Monday, as Master David Adebanwo, an SSS 2 Science student, emerged the One-Day Principal of the school after clinching first place in a competitive written and oral leadership assessment.

The colourful event, held on the school premises, attracted parents, teachers, students and invited guests, all of whom commended the innovative leadership initiative introduced by the school’s Principal, Mrs. Olajumoke Ekp-Jide.

The symbolic handover of authority marked a major highlight of the programme, which is aimed at grooming students for leadership by instilling confidence, responsibility and a strong sense of service.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mrs. Ekp-Jide said the initiative was designed to help students discover their leadership potential early, describing them as future leaders of society.

She appreciated the Ondo State Government for its continued support for education and disclosed that the One-Day Principal programme would henceforth be held annually, with plans to extend it to junior classes.

The Principal also shared a testimony of how a similar programme she introduced in a previous school transformed the life of a previously unnoticed student who later gained admission into the university.

“This programme helps to uncover hidden talents and build self-esteem. By God’s grace, we will sustain it until I retire from service,” she said.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Mrs. Akinnusi, explained that 48 students from SSS 1 to SSS 3 participated in the first stage of the competition, out of which 16 qualified for the second round.

Five finalists eventually emerged, and following an intensive oral assessment by the school management, the best three were selected through a transparent and merit-driven process.

Miss Muritala Mesinat of SSS 3 finished third, Master Elijah Amos came second, while Master Adebanwo emerged winner.

In his goodwill messages, the incoming PTA Chairman, Pastor Rotimi Isaac Olanigbehin, urged the One-Day Principal to see the opportunity as a stepping stone to national leadership and charged him to remain focused on excellence.

The outgoing PTA Chairman, Pastor Isaac Opaleye, advised the students to uphold humility and moral discipline, while Pastor Gabriel Ashaolu reminded them that promotion comes from God.

The Zonal Education Officer, Mr. Adekunle Henry, also applauded the initiative and encouraged students to pursue excellence in their academic and personal lives.

In his acceptance speech, Adebanwo thanked God for the opportunity and pledged to discharge his duties with diligence and commitment.

He praised Mrs. Ekp-Jide for her motherly care and visionary leadership, as well as the school management for the successful execution of the programme.

Immediately after his inauguration, the One-Day Principal commissioned the school’s water project, describing it as a development that would enhance students’ comfort and hygiene.

Addressing journalists, he announced a zero-tolerance stance on indecent dressing and promised to strengthen the school’s Press Club with improved support and equipment.

The event ended on a high note, with stakeholders applauding Mrs. Ekp-Jide’s creativity and calling on other school administrators to emulate her leadership model, which they said continues to promote discipline, confidence and excellence among students.