The founder and chairman of the Board of Dowen College, Dr. Olumide Phillips, and all members of the school’s board have stepped down.

The retirement of the board chairman and members was contained in a statement issued on Thursday, January 27, by one Tomi Borisade on behalf of the school.

According to the statement, a new generation of seasoned professionals are expected to take over from the exiting board.

“The new leaders are expected to run with the vision of the school and reposition it for greater heights.

“The decision of the board members to step down is informed by the need to inject new blood into the running of the school and reposition the school for greater heights,” the management stated.

Dowen College had been in the eyes of the storm over the death of a JSS 2 student, Sylvester Oromoni.

Announcing their exit, the statement added: “More significantly, the founding members of the Board of Governors including the Founder and Chairman of the Board, Dr. O. Olumide Phillips (Ph.D., FNSE, FNSChe, FAEng) who have worked tirelessly over the years to develop outstanding children both in and out of the school, have chosen to retire and pass the baton of change to a new generation of seasoned professionals who will run with the vision, leadership passion, commitment and values they have worked rigorously to establish.

“This will also enhance communication and effectiveness with the Parents Teachers Forum. Their good works cannot be allowed to go in vain and they are keen to ensure that.”

The school also regretted the unfortunate loss of Sylvester Oromoni, praying that his soul rests in perfect peace.

“May God grant the Oromoni family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. We pray we will never experience such an unfortunate incident in our community again. Sylvester’s demise has left all of us at Dowen College deeply saddened.

“Our students, staff, and community have been affected by the news surrounding his passing and we find ourselves navigating unchartered waters.

“For over 24 years, Dowen College Lagos has been able to build a strong exemplary educational institution with high moral values and a culture of enviable track record,” the school said.

Going forward, the statement informed that the school had thought about how best to serve the interest of the public and continue a better oversight function within the school.

To this end, the school informed that it is reviewing its policies with parents, staff, and students to ensure strict compliance and that best practices are adhered to.

Dowen College said it will not hesitate to relieve anyone responsible for administrative lapses in the discharge of the duties of their positions.

It states, “We are keen on ensuring that this type of situation never arises again.”

The school has also decided to bring in external consultants to work with its management over the next few months to ensure that high standards and best practices are upheld and implemented where they are needed.

“They will assess the policies, processes, and practices of the school and work to reassure our stakeholders of the quality and standards of education we provide.

“We have been working with the Lagos State Ministry of Education and taken on board their guidance and suggestions with regard to various areas of improvement.

“We will implement infrastructural changes to the hostels and school facilities to enhance safety and oversight within the school premises,” the school said.

It expressed confidence that the new chapter would be one of collective re-dedication to excellence.

“We want our students to always be very proud of their school and our community to be assured of our best intentions at all times. Education is the bedrock of our society.

“Dowen College is resolute in ensuring that we raise highly intellectual men and women with the best values who will positively develop and transform our country and their generation. We hope to do this with Gods’ help and everyone’s support,” the school stated.

TheStar