Gindiri Old Students’ Association (GOSA) Holds World Press Conference for 2024 National Convention
By Comfort Akudiang, Jos
The Gindiri Old Students’ Association (GOSA) hosted a world press conference today, October 3, 2024, at its secretariat in Dogon Karfe, Jos.
The event was led by Hon. Latep Dabang, Chairman of the 2024 Convention Central Planning Committee, who outlined plans for the upcoming National Convention, Reunion, and Thanksgiving celebration. “We are thrilled to officially announce and extend our invitation to all GOSA members, both within Nigeria and abroad, to participate in this year’s convention,” said Dabang. Scheduled for the first weekend of November—specifically Saturday, November 2, and Sunday, November 3this year’s convention continues GOSA’s longstanding tradition of uniting alumni to celebrate God’s faithfulness and blessings over the years.
Dabang emphasized that this gathering serves as a time for participants to reconnect with former classmates and schoolmates, revisit their beloved institutions, and collaboratively envision the future of Boys’ Secondary School (BSS) and Girls’ High School (GHS), while also encouraging each other in their societal responsibilities.
The theme for this year’s event is “Nurturing Excellence: Strengthening Bonds for a Brighter Future,” which holds particular significance as it aims to uphold the legacy of excellence established by the schools’ founders and educators, as well as GOSA itself. Since its inception 50 years ago, GOSA has remained committed to the advancement of BSS and GHS, striving to enhance the educational experience for current students.
The Association believes that uniting now for this cause is crucial for the development of future leaders and the betterment of society.
As part of its annual schedule, GOSA will kick off activities on Friday, November 1, 2024, with a courtesy visit to the Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, a GOSA member. Additional visits will also be made to the Proprietor of the schools, COCIN, and to prominent local leaders, including the Mishkagham Mwaghavul and the Sum Pyem, as a gesture of respect and to seek blessings for their initiatives.
On Saturday, November 2, members will convene at the Crispan Event Centre at 9:00 AM to review the year’s events
According to them, this year is particularly notable as elections will be held for the National Executives who will steward GOSA for the next three years. In the evening, a fundraising dinner will take place, during which the Association aims to raise N1 billion dedicated to transforming BSS and GHS into model institutions, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and resources. “This initiative aims to establish BSS and GHS as exemplary schools for others to emulate,” GOSA leaders stated, acknowledging the long-term nature of these ambitious projects. Sunday, November 3, will see a reunion service at Ulster Church in Gindiri, where alumni will pay tribute to their shared faith and reflect on their collective journey.
Following the service, a town hall meeting will take place at the Boys Secondary School Assembly Hall to plan for the upcoming year. To ensure the success of these events, the Central Planning Committee and the National Executive Council have been diligently coordinating logistics and outreach efforts. Tickets for the fundraising dinner will be available through online platforms and locally at GOSA branches. GOSA leaders express their hope that these events will enhance the spirit of togetherness that forms the foundation of their community.
They invite friends, well-wishers, and corporate partners to support the Association, particularly in the publication of a commemorative programme booklet filled with valuable insights and historical context.
The association also honors its late members, including former President Prof. Ochapa Onazi and former Executive members Engr. Sunday Hyat and Prof. Francis Akwash, offering prayers for their souls and for the many GOSA members who have passed away over the past year.
