The Alumni Association of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) has launched the “Stay in School Project” a community impact initiative designed to support 200 students of Comprehensive High School, Alapere, with essential learning materials, mentorship, and life skills training. Held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, the project exemplified the Academy’s enduring commitment to nurturing leadership through service and empowering young people to achieve their full potential.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Adepeju Balogun-Awe, President of the LJLA Alumni Association, described the initiative as a reflection of the Academy’s vision to raise leaders who give back to society through sustainable community impact.
“The Stay in School Project is more than a donation drive; it is our way of investing in the next generation. Every pencil, notebook, and mentoring session is a seed we are planting to inspire excellence, discipline, and purpose in these young minds. We want every student here to understand that their dreams are valid and achievable with hard work and the right support” she said.
Through the project, over 200 students received vital learning materials to aid their studies, alongside interactive mentorship sessions that encouraged goal setting, resilience, and a commitment to personal growth.
Representing the Executive Secretary of the Academy, Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Mr. Abiodun Oduyebo, commended the Alumni Association for exemplifying the spirit of service that defines the Academy.
“This initiative captures the true essence of LJLA. We train leaders who not only excel in their fields but also return to uplift their communities. What our alumni have done today reinforces the Academy’s mission to build a network of leaders who transform lives” he stated.
He further noted that the Academy remains committed to supporting alumni-led initiatives that promote education, civic engagement, and youth empowerment across Lagos State and beyond.
The event also featured mentorship engagements where alumni members shared their personal experiences and lessons in leadership, encouraging students to stay focused, pursue excellence, and contribute positively to society.
One of the beneficiaries, Mosunmola Akinwunbi, a Senior Secondary School Three student, expressed her excitement and gratitude. “I am really happy that they came to talk to us and give us these materials. Sometimes it feels like nobody sees our struggles, but today I feel encouraged. I have learned that leadership starts from believing in yourself and doing your best every day” she said.
The “Stay in School Project” forms part of the LJLA Alumni’s broader mission to advance educational equity and community development. The initiative underscores the Academy’s core belief that leadership begins with service and that meaningful change starts with empowering the next generation.
