Redemption Gate Secondary School, a faith-based institution founded on Christian principles and doctrine, has built its reputation on academic excellence, digital innovation, character development and moral discipline. In this interview with Standard Times Newspaper correspondent Tijani Salako, the school’s Principal, Mrs. Yetunde Abolarin, an educator with over two decades of experience, shared her leadership journey since assuming office in 2016, and the remarkable achievements, its commitment to students’ holistic development, and its vision for the future.

Please tell us about yourself: your name, background, and experience since assuming office as Principal?

Okay! My name is Mrs. Yetunde Abolarin. I am an educator. I started my professional training in 1997 when I attended the College of Education. From there, I proceeded to the University of Ilorin, where I studied Educational Management. After graduating, I obtained my Master’s degree from the University of Lagos, and I am currently rounding off my PhD programme, also in Educational Management. Throughout my life, I have devoted my career to the training of children because I believe they are the leaders of tomorrow. I am passionate about helping them discover and maximise their potential. I am blessed with two children, a son and a daughter. My son graduated from this great school and is currently in the university, while my daughter is presently in SS2. That shows that I believe in what I do. I believe in our products and in the quality of education we provide.

What has been your greatest strength, motivation, and most significant achievement since becoming Principal?

I joined Redemption Gate Secondary School on January 5, 2016, as the Principal. However, my leadership career began in 2008 at Seolad International School in Ogun State. When I assumed office at Redemption Gate Secondary School, the school had about 97 students. Since then, the school has continued to grow, and today our population has risen to over 300 students. To the glory of God, our students have consistently performed excellently in UTME, WAEC, NECO and GCE examinations. In the last UTME, at least 90 percent of our candidates scored 200 and above. While they were in SS2, they sat for GCE and recorded a 97 percent pass rate. Our overall WAEC performance for the 2024/2025 academic session stood at 89 percent, which was outstanding. Beyond academics, our students have also distinguished themselves in competitions. In the mummy G.O competition, our senior secondary students came second among participating schools in Nigeria, while our junior secondary students emerged first. We participated again this year and retained second position. A student of our school also came second in an essay competition organised by Thomas University. Academically and morally, our students have continued to excel. We also receive positive reports from parents whose children are studying abroad, confirming that they are performing excellently both academically and in character.

It is often said that managing people is the most challenging task. How have you been navigating staff and student management to ensure harmony and productivity?

As a student of human behaviour, I have worked with different people and served in different organisations. Before joining Redemption Gate Secondary School, I managed over 100 staff members and more than 700 students at Silas International School. During my time there, the school experienced significant enrollment growth. When I joined, the population was below 300 students, but before I left, it had grown to over 700. The school also represented Nigeria in the Turkish Mathematics Competition and performed very well. One of the major factors behind this success is teamwork. I believe strongly in participatory leadership. We share a common vision, deliberate together on how to achieve our goals, and everyone contributes their quota. We constantly review our performance by asking ourselves what we did right and what we could have done better. We reinforce strategies that produce positive results and appreciate those who contribute to our success. Where improvement is needed, we develop both short-term and long-term plans to address the gaps and ensure continuous progress.

As the school proceeds on vacation, what new programmes or policy improvements is the board planning to introduce in the next academic session?

For the new academic session, we have acquired additional gadgets because we know that we are in the digital age. The Federal Ministry of Education is encouraging schools to embrace digital learning, while examination bodies have also indicated that students will increasingly write computer-based examinations, both online and offline. As we speak, we have acquired enough gadgets for our students. In addition, since the COVID-19 period, we have been assessing our students through Computer-Based Tests (CBT) to prepare them for this transition. Another area we are focusing on in the coming academic session is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve teaching, learning and assessment. We also operate a blended learning approach, where students are given learning tasks to complete at home before engaging physically with their teachers in class. This promotes a student-centred approach to learning, where teachers guide students while allowing them to think, explore and learn independently before classroom discussions. We also intend to expand the use of gamification in learning because we have discovered that children of this generation are highly interested in games. We believe that adopting teaching methods that engage them will produce better learning outcomes.

Beyond academic examinations, how do you assess students in areas such as critical thinking, entrepreneurship, digital skills, and other 21st-century competencies?

The curriculum requires every student to offer at least one trade subject. Previously, there were over 35 trade subjects, but the new policy reduced them to six to allow students to gain better mastery of their chosen skills. In our school, we embrace both practical and digital skills. Students are exposed to subjects such as Livestock Production and Digital Literacy. Since we are in the computer age, we also offer Robotics and Coding programmes. Students who are interested in these specialised programmes can enrol by paying the required additional fee. Beyond the classroom, we have various clubs that help students develop their talents and interests. These include Home Making, where students learn skills such as sewing, the Young Farmers Club, crocheting, academic clubs, social clubs, music and instrumental training. Our approach is to identify each child’s interests and build on them because passion and genuine interest go a long way in helping individuals learn and excel.

Does the school offer any scholarship programmes? How can interested and qualified students access it?

As part of our social responsibility, we provide support for students who genuinely need financial assistance. Every request is carefully assessed because if scholarship opportunities are made open to everyone, virtually everyone would apply. We look at each case individually to determine whether the student truly requires assistance. For example, if a student loses a parent or experiences circumstances that make it difficult to continue schooling, the school may consider granting a percentage discount on tuition fees. Parents or guardians are expected to write formally to the school, explaining their circumstances and requesting assistance. Each application is considered on its merit before any decision is made.

What platforms exist for students to express their views, especially on decisions that directly affect them?

Yes, we have a Students’ Representative Council through which students are able to express their views. The council comprises elected prefects, although positions such as Head Boy, Head Girl, Senior Prefect Boy and Senior Prefect Girl may be filled either through election or appointment, depending on the circumstances. During their meetings, they discuss issues affecting students, identify areas that need improvement and present their concerns to the school management. We carefully consider their recommendations, deliberate on them together and implement necessary improvements where appropriate.

What measures has the school put in place to support students’ mental health, career guidance, and counseling?

The school has a counselling unit with a qualified counsellor who attends to students facing personal, emotional or academic challenges. Students are encouraged to express themselves freely and seek guidance whenever the need arises. Beyond counselling, we also provide career guidance. After our students complete JSS3, they take an aptitude test in addition to their academic examinations. Using the results of the psychometric assessment, we make recommendations on the most suitable academic pathway or department for each student. We understand that parents sometimes influence their children’s career choices. As students progress through senior secondary school, some parents return to seek further guidance or request a change of department. In such cases, we review the student’s academic history, strengths and interests before making appropriate recommendations to ensure the child is on the right path.

How often does the school review tuition fees in light of the current economy, while maintaining high standards?

We do not review our tuition fees frequently. In fact, there was a period when the school did not review its fees for about five years. The last tuition review was carried out in 2022. Even with the current economic situation, we try to maintain a balance between sustaining the quality of education we provide and ensuring that parents are not placed under unnecessary financial pressure. Any review is carefully considered and only carried out when it becomes necessary.

Do you follow up on graduating students in higher institutions to monitor their academic performance and well-being?

Yes, we keep in touch with many of our graduates. For those studying outside Nigeria, most of the information we receive comes through their parents because, in many countries, parental consent is required before schools can communicate directly with students. Through their parents, we receive regular feedback on their academic performance, behaviour and overall progress, and we are pleased that many of them continue to excel in their respective institutions.

You mentioned that all graduating students have secured admission. How were you able to achieve this?

Our students gain admission into different higher institutions based on their individual choices and qualifications. We do not have a formal admission partnership or affiliation with any university. On the day of our valedictory service, I mentioned one of our former students who graduated with a First Class from the University of Lagos. We also have several other alumni who graduated with First Class honours from private, state and federal universities. Some are working internationally, while others are making significant contributions in different professions. Recently, one of our former students also secured a scholarship to study abroad. These achievements reflect the quality of preparation our students receive before leaving the school. They are doing very well, both within Nigeria and internationally.

Do you guide students in choosing career paths based on their performance?

Yes, career guidance is an important part of our educational process. Apart from students’ academic performance, we use aptitude and psychometric assessments to identify their strengths, abilities and interests. Based on these assessments, we recommend suitable academic departments and career paths. We also work closely with parents because, while some parents already have career aspirations for their children, we ensure that every recommendation is guided by the child’s abilities, interests and long-term potential.

What is the nature of the school’s affiliation with these higher institutions? Are they private, state or federal?

Our students gain admission into private, state and federal universities across Nigeria, depending on their individual preferences and qualifications. The school does not have a formal partnership or admission arrangement with any higher institution. Students apply to the institutions of their choice, and we prepare them academically and morally to succeed wherever they are admitted. We are proud that many of our graduates continue to distinguish themselves in higher institutions both in Nigeria and abroad.

Given the school’s Christian foundation, does the school admit students of other faiths, such as Muslims?

Nobody is compelled to practise Christianity in this school. We respect freedom of association and freedom of religion. However, Redemption Gate Secondary School is a faith-based institution, and we remain committed to our Christian values. As part of our curriculum, we offer Christian Religious Studies (CRS), but we do not offer Islamic Religious Studies (IRS). Parents who are comfortable with our Christian foundation are welcome to enrol their children. We do not force anyone to change their faith, but we also cannot compromise the vision and standards upon which the school was established.

What are the board’s priorities for upgrading classrooms, laboratories, the library, and sports facilities?

The board is deeply committed to the welfare and overall development of our students. Its priority is to provide everything necessary to maintain the high standard of the school and create an environment where students can thrive. Beyond infrastructure, the board is concerned about the safety, spiritual growth and moral upbringing of every child. When you look at the vision of the school, you will see that while we place great emphasis on academic excellence, we are equally passionate about building good character. We believe that no matter how intelligent or successful a child becomes, without the right character, those achievements may not be sustained. That is why character development remains one of our highest priorities alongside continuous improvement of our learning facilities.

What is the current level of provision for power, internet, and other digital equipment to enhance students’ learning capacity?

As I mentioned earlier, we have acquired over 100 laptops to support digital learning and prepare our students for computer-based examinations. Boarding students are allowed to use the laptops whenever they need them for academic purposes, while day students have access to the facilities during school hours. We also provide internet access for learning, but its use is regulated because the users are children. In addition, the school is making plans to install solar power to provide a more reliable electricity supply and further strengthen our digital learning environment.

What partnership exists between the school and the Navy Band Choir in training students in arts and innovation hubs?

We do not have a formal partnership with the Nigerian Navy Band Choir. The performance during our valedictory service was a special arrangement. In fact, it was the first time in the school’s 18-year history that we hosted such a performance. It was a unique event because the occasion itself was special, and the invitation was made specifically for that programme. However, we have parents within our school community who have connections with the Nigerian Navy, and that made the arrangement possible.

How does the school partner with parents, alumni, and the host community to support student growth?

When I joined Redemption Gate Secondary School, only about 15 percent of families living within this estate had their children enrolled in the school. Today, that figure has grown to well over 70 percent. The confidence of parents has increased because they have seen the academic performance, discipline and character of our students. They continue to recommend the school to other families, and that has become one of our greatest sources of support. We also maintain a cordial relationship with the host community. The school is an active member of the Community Development Association (CDA). We pay our dues, comply with community regulations and participate in activities that promote peaceful coexistence. This healthy relationship has contributed greatly to the school’s growth and acceptance within the community.

What role do alumni play in mentoring current students and supporting school projects?

We regularly invite our alumni to interact with our students and share their experiences. During programmes such as our valedictory service, we create opportunities for them to give back to the school through mentorship and motivational talks. One of our alumni, Barrister Toni Salami, returned to speak with our students on issues relating to purity, personal hygiene and the welfare of the girl child. Although our alumni association is still developing because the school itself is relatively young, we are deliberately building a stronger alumni network that will continue to mentor students and support the growth of the school in the years ahead.