By Ifeanyi Ndukwe and Ebube Edieh
The atmosphere at Rosa Mystica High School (formerly Girls’ High School, Agulu) brimmed with joy as the school ground welcomed back its daughters for the maiden Homecoming, Reunion which took place on Saturday 28th December, 2024.
The air was electric with nostalgia and camaraderie, as past students, now trailblazers in various fields, gathered to celebrate their shared legacy and pay homage to their Alma Mater.
Laughter mingled with tears of joy as old classmates reunited, their shared memories forming an invisible bridge across decades. Each hug, each smile, spoke volumes of the bond that time and distance had been unable to weaken.
A convergence of notable personalities, including accomplished professionals and revered figures, set the tone for a day steeped in celebration and reflections. These women, who once walked the hallowed halls of Rosa Mystica, returned not only to reconnect but to give back to the institution that shaped their destinies.
The event began with an address by Prof. B.A.C Obiefuna, whose words struck a chord in the hearts of all present as he underscored the vital role the Old Girls Association played in the continued progress of the school. With a blend of reverence and challenge, he lauded their steadfast commitment to the institution and urged them to sustain this legacy for future generations.
In a solemn address infused with spiritual warmth, the Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Revd. Dr. Paulinus Chukwuemeka Ezeokafor, represented by Rev. Fr. Dr. Evaristus Iheanacho, blessed the gathering. He invoked divine grace for peace, unity, and enduring support for the institution. His words resonated as a call to action, urging the alumni to remain pillars of strength and growth for Rosa Mystica.
Rev. Fr. Paul Chimezie, the School Manager, offered a poetic metaphor in his welcome address, titled, “The Magnificence of a Grandmother.”
Comparing Rosa Mystica to a loving grandmother, he described the Old Girls as her daughters and granddaughters, returning home to rekindle bonds.
‘The grandmother is overjoyed to welcome her daughters and granddaughters who have come from far and wide to rejoice and commune with her,” he stated. This imagery of familial love set the stage for a day dedicated to unity, gratitude, and celebration.
Organizing the reunion was no small feat. The planning committee, led by Dr. Chioma Okoye-Okonkwo, a US-based medical doctor and alumna of the class of 1996, worked tirelessly to bring the dream to life. Alongside her were Lady Ann Aniebosi and many others who gave their all to make the event a reality.
Their dedication transformed years of vision into a spectacular reality. In her remarks, Dr. Okoye-Okonkwo attributed the triumph of the reunion to humility and an abiding love for collective progress.
‘This day is a triumph of humility, love, and shared vision,’ she said.
Similarly, Amb. Mrs. Nnoyelum Agatha Afoekelu, the chairlady and leader of the class of 1988, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who supported the initiative, calling it the fruition of long-nurtured dreams.
Amidst the joy, a legendary Professor of English, Prof Joy Eyisi, from the class of 1986, shared her heartfelt emotions. ‘This reunion is the best Christmas gift I could ever ask for. Seeing everyone again is nothing short of magical,’ she gushed.
The programme unfolded with loads of fanfare and merriment. Sack races, dances, chair competitions, awards, recognitions, and raffle draws brought laughter and joy.
The Masters of Ceremony, Dr. Uju Muoneme and Mrs. Ebele Anameze, stole the show with their wit and charm, keeping everyone entertained and engaged to ensure the event was as lively and memorable
As the day drew to a close, it was evident that this reunion was more than a celebration; it was the start of a new chapter for Rosa Mystica Old Girls Association. It symbolized a pledge to uplift the institution and ensure that future generations experience the same transformative power of education and community.
The walls of Rosa Mystica echoed with laughter, gratitude, and the promise of a brighter future, as its daughters proved that while they may have left its gates, they still carried with them the spirit of love, unity and purposeful life firmly etched in their hearts.
