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Mrs. Umo Balogun At 80: Admiring The Glitters Of A Teaching Treasure Trove
There are different kinds of teachers in every school, but there are two major types:
The ones who come into the lives of students and leave them the way they met them—without impact.
The second group comes into the lives of students, and their impact—positive or negative—is felt forever.
Mrs. Umo Balogun, a former English Language and Literature teacher at Molusi College, Ijebu, Ogun State, belongs to the second group and is of the positive impact kind.
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Mama Balogun, who turns 80 on Monday, May 27, 2024, is a proud mother of hundreds of children whom she nurtured and shaped their futures with unwavering dedication. It is certainly no coincidence that her birthday falls on May 27, the day set aside for the celebration of children worldwide.
During Mrs. Balogun’s time teaching at Molusi College, she took students under her wing. She treated them like her biological children, according to multiple old students who spoke with Eko Hot Blog.
They say her lessons extended far beyond the textbooks, instilling values and knowledge that have guided them throughout their journey.
Inspiring Beyond The Classroom
According to her former students, Mrs. Balogun’s ability to teach beyond the curriculum set her apart.
Whether through personal anecdotes, encouraging words, or moral support, she ensured that her students were prepared for life’s challenges.
Her influence extended beyond academic success, shaping the character and values of those fortunate enough to be in her class.
Dr. Wole Kukoyi, who was under the celebrant’s unique tutelage, didn’t mince words in his praise of his former teacher, saying her dedication, wisdom, and guidance have inspired him and his colleagues to reach their full potential and strive for excellence.
“Your teaching went beyond the curriculum, as you instilled in us essential life skills, such as critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving,” he wrote in a message shared with Eko Hot Blog.
Dr. Kukoyi, a general physician who will be installed as the Governor of Rotary District 9111 in July, adds that Mrs. Balogun’s influence has continued to be a source of motivation, encouraging her former students to pursue their passions and make a positive difference in the world.
“Your legacy extends far beyond the classroom, as you’ve made a lasting impact on our communities and society as a whole,” the Global President of the Molusi College Old Students Association (MOCOSA) affirmed.
“As a mentor, you’ve been a shining example of kindness, empathy, and compassion, always willing to lend a listening ear and offer sage advice.
“Your door was always open, and your guidance was invaluable. You’ve helped shape us into confident, capable, and caring individuals, and we are forever grateful.
“As you celebrate this significant milestone, I hope you know that your influence will continue to ripple out, touching generations to come. Your life has been a testament to the power of love, learning, and leadership, and we are all the better for having had the privilege of knowing you.”
Mrs. Umo Balogun
Mentor and Role Model
For many teachers, their job is done once a student leaves the four walls of the school. Mrs. Balogun interestingly had a different approach: Staying in touch with former students.
It was her way of ensuring that they did not deviate from what she taught them.
Otunba TJ Abass, a former student and the publisher of Eko Hot Blog, wrote:
Mrs. Umo Balogun taught us English literature from 1969 to 1973. In her classroom, she ignited our passion for literature and language, instilling a deep appreciation for the written word,”.
“Her dedication went beyond the curriculum; she took a genuine interest in our personal growth and future aspirations.
“As we went through various life paths, Mrs. Umo Balogun’s influence remained a guiding light.
“She remained connected and involved in our lives, continuing to contribute to the development of our school.
“She often reached out to offer encouragement, advice, and support, showing us that her commitment to our development extended far beyond our school years.
“Her continued involvement in our school’s progress is a testament to her enduring legacy and profound impact on all of us.”
The Legacy Lives On
As Mrs Balogun attains this milestone age of 80, former students also recall moments of inspiration and guidance that have stayed with them long after leaving the classroom.
The ripple effect of her influence can be seen in the successes and contributions of her students in various fields and communities around the world.
Mrs. Umo Balogun
Heartfelt Thank You Messages from Former Students
Bosipo Badero – CN 2221:
A daughter never appreciates her mother until she grows to become one!
Such is our case as students, we never valued the knowledge impact and dutiful work of the celebrant of today until we left school to face the oddities of life after school such as furthering studies, work (office) routine and being privately engaged.
Mama Umo Balogun, we appreciate and associate with all that are yours on your celebration of 80 years on earth.
Congratulations and HBD Ma.
Jaguar Taiwo Adekoya:
Mrs Umo Balogun was my literature mistress and very humble woman. We were living together in our former principal Olatunde Sansa Balogun house at Odobotu as a wife to Olatunde Balogun.
I really enjoyed her during the time we were together. I wish her more years to celebrate in good health and age with abundant grace. She will still live more years to reap the fruits of her labour.
Dosumu Luke – CN 2250:
Mrs Balogun, you made me develop interest in reading culture while in school till date. Thank you.
Iyabosola Fayemi – CN 2190:
Happy Birthday ma, mum UMO BALOGUN. I wish you a Happy and Healthy 80th Birthday and I say cheers to 80 years of wisdom, kindness and love.
You have left an indelible mark on our hearts. May your 80th year and beyond be as beautiful as the love you’ve shared with us. At 80, you are not old but classic.
Wishing you a vintage year ahead. Continue to unlock a new level in the game of life filled with adventures. Congratulations ma.
Bunmi Odeniyi:
Hurray, Chief Mrs Umo Balogun, the yeye of Molusi College, as she turns 80.
An English literature guru, a humble personality, teacher of teachers, a kind and generous personality and very contented with life. A woman with conscience and a child of God.
I wish you great health at 80 as I pray many happy returns of the day. CONGRATULATIONS!
Tunji Owoyeye – CN 2293:
Happy Birthday to our Dear mother, Mrs Umo Balogun.
A Teacher, a Mother, a Mentor, a counselor and a Guardian. It is not surprising that you still take keen interest in the welfare and development of every member of our set even more than half a century after leaving school.
You are a mother indeed. As you continue to age gracefully, you shall spend the rest of your life in good health, sound mind and all round peace of mind. CONGRATULATIONS!!!
Hussein Abayomi – CN 2217:
Happy birthday to Mama Umo Balogun @80, a teacher of teachers and an excellent mentor.
Kunle Kolawole:
Birthdays are always special joyous occasions and a time to celebrate with loved ones. It is also a time to show affection to those we love and respect.
That celebration assume a different dimension especially when the celebrant is a mother to us and who among others including her husband helped in moulding our childhood into productive adults that we are today.
We appreciate you today as we do every time. Happy Birthday Ma.
Sefiu Adeniyi Balogun Oworose – CN 2275:
Congratulations to the great Mother of Molusian 1969/73 set, Mama Mrs Umoh Balogun. Blessed to your new age, many happy returns of the day.
Mrs Bamidele Ogun (Nee Kareem):
Mama, you are a born teacher and a mentor, Happy Birthday Ma.
Bisola Ayeni – CN 2229:
Happy Birth Anniversary Ma!!!
Thank you for making secondary school fun and educative.Thank you for always being exceptional, unique and versatile.
Your pen and letters live on. You are the true definition of a woman.
Enjoy your 80th year on earth and cheers to more.
Gboyega Owoyeye:
I join millions of people who have tasted your nice attitude while in school and after to wish you a happy birthday anniversary Mama Balogun. Continue to enjoy the grace of God.
Tunde Aiyegbusi:
Happy 80th Birthday anniversary to our mentor, counsellor, inspiration, and pathfinder: Mama Umo Balogun.
No doubt, Mrs Balogun is one of a kind, an example to current and future teachers. By taking her job seriously, she ensured a positive future for her students. Clearly, her legacy of excellence and kindness continues to shine brightly in the hearts of all who have had the privilege to learn from her.
FURTHER READING
The Management of Eko Hot Blog joins Mama Balogun’s former students, family, and friends in wishing her a happy birthday as she adds another year to her many fruitful years on earth. May the rest of mama’s life be spent in perfect health and complete peace.
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