Members of the Old Boys Association of Boys’ High School Osumenyi, Class of 1996 (OBABOHISCO ’96), on January 5, 2026, gathered in an atmosphere of nostalgia and celebration to mark 30 years since their graduation, paying glowing tribute to their alma mater, former teachers, and mentors, while also making a policy appeal to the Anambra State Government.
Delivering the welcome address at the reunion, the Senior Prefect and Head of Administration of BOHISCO 1996, Mr. Kenechukwu Udokwu, described the event as more than a social gathering, saying it was a celebration of shared history, enduring bonds, and the legacy of the institution that shaped them.
“It is with great joy and nostalgia that I stand before you to welcome you to this epoch-making event, the reunion of our esteemed classmates of 1996 of our great citadel, Boys’ High School Osumenyi,” Udokwu said.
Recalling their admission into the school in 1991, he noted that seeing familiar faces again after three decades underscored the deep relationships forged at BOHISCO.
“Today is more than a reunion; it is a celebration of our alma mater, where we are presently and where we are going,” he said, adding that the school’s motto, ‘Knowledge is Power,’ continues to define the lives and careers of members of the set.
Udokwu paid special tribute to the teachers and administrators who, he said, laid a strong academic and moral foundation for the students.
“Our teachers sacrificed so much in moulding and shaping all of us into who we are today through their impactful dedication in both academic and moral teachings,” he stated.
He singled out the late Principal, Mr. Chukwura, for his discipline and fatherly leadership, noting that his presence instilled order and responsibility among students.
“The fear of his surprise appearance in classes, assembly grounds and hostels sustained many of us to be where we ought to be at all times,” Udokwu said, praying for the repose of his soul.
He also praised the former Vice Principal, Chief Sir Reuben Nwosu, whom he described as “a man of courage, unassuming and of high moral standing,” adding that despite being perceived as strict, he was deeply committed to students’ academic and moral growth.
Udokwu went on to acknowledge several teachers by name for their dedication across various subjects, as well as non-teaching staff, including the school’s gate manager, housemaster, and cook, for their contributions to student welfare.
Turning to current developments, the former Senior Prefect commended the Anambra State Government under Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for introducing free education from primary to senior secondary school, describing it as unprecedented.
“This is something that never happened during our time,” he said.
However, he appealed to the state government to extend the policy to cover Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE/WAEC) fees, warning that the cost remains a major source of anxiety for students and parents.
“We most sincerely appeal to the Governor of Anambra for urgent consideration, approval and inclusion of the SSCE/WAEC fees in the free education programme, as this has been the greatest fear and discouragement to students, parents and guardians,” Udokwu said.
He also expressed gratitude to the current principal, Mrs. Ogechi Egbunonu, and the entire teaching and non-teaching staff for their commitment to the school, urging present students to remain disciplined and focused.
Addressing his classmates, Udokwu described the association as a bridge between the past and the future, calling on members to give back to the institution that shaped them.
“This association is all about building bridges between the past and the future and giving back to this great institution that made an indelible imprint on who we are today,” he said.
He further invited other BOHISCO alumni sets and friends of the school to collaborate in restoring the institution to its former glory through new initiatives and sustained support.
The reunion ended with prayers for departed classmates, appreciation for sponsors and members of the planning committee, and goodwill messages for a prosperous 2026.
