In commemoration of its 40th Anniversary, the Saint Maria Goretti Old Girls Association (SMAGOGA), Class of 1985 also known as the Tulips, has donated a fully equipped sick bay to the Saint Maria Goretti Girls School in Benin City.
On behalf of the Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, the Chairman of the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Ebanehita Sonia Omonzane, appreciated the Association, saying, “I am so happy to be here again, and I want to thank you for this wonderful donation made to our children. This donation is a symbol of care; it means you have passion for our children, it means you care for them. On behalf of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, and the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, we say thank you and God bless you for what you have done.”
Hon. Omonzane appealed to the teaching staff of the School to make full and proper use of the Facility, emphasizing that its effective utilization would showcase its value to all visitors. She also expressed gratitude to the Association for employing a nurse whose salary will be covered by the Tulips for one year.
The Global President of SMAGOGA, Mrs. Jesurobo Angela reflecting on the day’s significance, stated, “Today is a joyful and historic day for us in our Alma Mater. It is with deep gratitude to God and immense pride that I stand here as the Global President of SMAGOGA. On behalf of the Global Body, I want to sincerely commend the Class of 1985 for this noble and impactful gesture. You have not only given back to our School but also invested in the health, safety and future of Goretti Girls yet unborn. This is a legacy that will live long after today.”
Mrs. Jesurobo emphasizing the vital role of the Sick Bay in a school environment, said, “The importance of a sick bay cannot be overemphasized. It serves as a sanctuary for students in times of sudden illness, emergencies or minor health issues. It provides first aid, reassurance and immediate care before professional medical attention is sought when necessary. A sick bay is not just a room; it is a place of hope, comfort and sometimes life-saving intervention. With this Facility in place, our students can learn in an environment where their health needs are prioritized.”
Joined by the Board members representing Edo South and Edo North senatorial districts in company of directors and members of SMAGOGA Tulips, the Executive Chairman performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The gathering broke into enthusiastic applause as the Sick Bay was officially commissioned.
Student representatives from the junior and senior schools expressed appreciation for the Alumni’s generosity. They described the new facility as a vital addition to the School’s infrastructure and a testament to the Tulips’ unwavering commitment to pupils’ welfare.
The new facility, fitted with medical beds, first-aid supplies and a private consultation room, is designed to provide prompt, on-the-spot healthcare services for pupils and staff of Saint Maria Goretti Girls School. The fully operational Sick Bay stands as a testament to four decades of unity, compassion, service and enduring gift from one generation of Tulips to others.
