What becomes of a tree cut off from its roots? It withers.
So too do schools and colleges decline when their past students – their living legacy – forget to give back, to connect, to care.
As a proud die-hard APSUnian of the 1980 Year Group, I have seen firsthand the incredible power of alumni involvement. It’s a power that builds institutions, shapes generations, and binds hearts across time.
In this human interest piece, I make the case – not just for APSUnians – but for all alumni of every school and college, to rise, rally, and renew their commitment to their alma mater.
Why Alumni Matter
When students graduate and move on, they don’t just leave with certificates – they carry away memories, friendships, lessons, values, and the spirit of the institution. But too often, those connections fade with time. And yet, these very past students are the secret weapon for any school’s sustained excellence.
Alumni associations form a critical bridge between the past, present, and future of a school. We are custodians of tradition and stewards of progress.
Benefits of Strong Alumni Networks
Sustaining Standards
Alumni who are engaged can play a role in preserving the ethos and standards of the school, acting as a moral compass and a reality check for administrators. We can keep schools focused on excellence, discipline, and vision.
Mentorship and Guidance
Imagine how empowering it is for a current student to hear from someone who once sat in their classroom and has gone on to succeed in life. Alumni can mentor, guide, and inspire. Even a one-off talk can change a life.
Networking and Opportunities
A vibrant alumni network opens doors – for business, careers, scholarships, and personal growth. It’s not about old boys’ clubs, but real-world collaboration and upliftment.
A Safety Net in Hard Times
Alumni groups often come through for one another in times of need – be it health, employment, or crisis. That solidarity can’t be bought; it is forged through shared history and loyalty.
Resource Mobilisation
Yes, money matters. But it’s not the only thing. While some alumni offer financial support for infrastructure, books, or scholarships, others give of their time, professional expertise, or networks. All contributions matter.
How to Sustain and Fund an Alumni Movement
Regular Engagement
Participate in Speech Days, Founders’ Days, and class reunions. Be present. Your presence sends a message.
Digital Connection
Use WhatsApp, Facebook, and alumni portals to keep in touch and share updates, initiatives, and opportunities.
Build Chapters
Whether locally or abroad, set up chapters and hold regular events that blend social, service, and professional interactions.
Celebrate Milestones
Honour achievements of members. Commemorate anniversaries. Document your history. This builds identity and pride.
Mentor and Volunteer
Offer yourself. Help a student. Coach a team. Lend advice. Speak at a school event. Teach a masterclass. Your time is gold.
Creative Fundraising
Develop sustainable funding models such as:
- Annual Dues or Subscriptions
Encourage voluntary annual contributions from members, tiered to suit different giving capacities. - Merchandise Sales
Sell branded items (shirts, mugs, scarves) to build identity and raise funds. - Corporate Partnerships
Tap into member networks to form partnerships with businesses willing to support alumni-led initiatives. - Alumni Giving Campaigns
Launch targeted campaigns to support specific projects—libraries, ICT centres, or scholarships. - Endowment Funds
Encourage long-term giving and bequests to build a lasting fund for future projects.
A Platform for Progress: Alumni Network Online Radio
It is precisely for all these reasons that the Alumni Network Online Radio has been set up—a powerful new medium to amplify the voices and efforts of alumni across institutions.
This pioneering initiative outlines a vision for an inclusive platform that brings together alumni associations from various schools and colleges to:
- Share insights and best practices
- Celebrate impact stories
- Foster cross-institutional mentorship
- Stimulate inter-school dialogue and partnerships
Anchored on the belief that a strong alumni ecosystem contributes significantly to educational transformation and youth empowerment, the Network provides space for thought leadership, storytelling, and collaboration.
Odade3 Radio/TV, with its online reach and flexible broadcast model, offers the ideal home for this groundbreaking series. Currently leading this effort are dynamic and visionary individuals such as John Addo-Fening, Nii Adu Cofie, Peter Martey Agbeko, Alex Abbiew and Kodzo Chapman.
Watch this space for updates as we launch conversations that matter – from mentorship showcases and school project spotlights to cross-generational panels on nation-building.
Don’t Sit on the Fence
Let me say this plainly – get involved.
Don’t wait for a formal invitation. Don’t say you have nothing to offer. Your experience, your story, your presence – these are gifts to your school and its current students.
You don’t have to be a millionaire or a CEO to make a difference. Help can come in the form of mentorship, counselling, speaking engagements, or just showing up. What matters most is commitment.
Final Word
Schools don’t build themselves. They are shaped by generations of people who care – teachers, students, and yes, alumni. When we give back, we plant the seeds for future greatness. When we connect, we build a legacy that outlives us.
I call on all APSUnians, and indeed all old students everywhere: rise up, reconnect, and rebuild. Your school needs you. Your story matters. And your contribution – big or small – will help keep the flame burning bright.
Let’s not just remember where we came from. Let’s help shape where we’re going.
Peter Martey Agbeko is a communications specialist, a proud member of the APSU Class of 1980, and a committed old boy who believes in giving back. He is a regular participant in school activities and is passionate about youth development, mentoring, and institutional excellence. He is also one of the conveners of the Alumni Network Online Radio initiative
