Saint Joseph’s College (SJC) is celebrating its 70th anniversary with a week-long lineup of events, drawing alumni, students, and stakeholders from across Nigeria to honour its legacy and inspire future generations.

‎Ondo City has come alive to celebrate the institution’s platinum jubilee in a vibrant, week-long event marked by nostalgia, pride, and renewed commitment to excellence.

‎The celebration, themed “Building on a Glorious Heritage, Inspiring Generations at 70,” commenced on March 16 and will run through March 22, 2026.

‎ It has attracted a wide spectrum of old students, education stakeholders, and well-wishers, all converging to honour one of Nigeria’s most respected post-primary institutions.

‎Activities reached a lively peak on Day Three with a colourful roadshow across Ondo City. Students, clad in black trousers and white T-shirts, marched alongside alumni and teachers dressed in customized apparel.

‎The procession reflected unity and pride, as participants celebrated the college’s enduring impact in shaping intellectual leaders across diverse fields since its inception.

‎Fondly known as SJC by earlier generations and SAJOCO by more recent alumni, Saint Joseph’s College continues to stand tall as a symbol of academic excellence and moral discipline.

‎Founded in 1955 by Bishop Thomas Hughes S.M.A, the first Vicar Apostolic of the Ondo-Ilorin Catholic Vicariate, the institution was established to provide quality Catholic education for boys in Ondo Town.

‎ The school was named after Saint Joseph, as its application coincided with the month dedicated to him.

‎Academic activities began modestly in a four-classroom block near St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in Oke Padi before the school relocated to its permanent site at Omilerugun (now along Ife Road) on December 2, 1957.

‎The 42-acre land was generously donated by prominent Ondo chiefs, reflecting strong community support for education.

‎Over the decades, the college has been led by notable principals, beginning with Father Martin Walsh, followed by the De La Salle Christian Brothers and distinguished Nigerian educators who sustained its tradition of discipline and academic rigor.

‎SJC’s alumni network boasts an array of prominent figures, including former Ondo State Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and respected professionals across business, engineering, and public service—further cementing the institution’s legacy of excellence.

‎As the celebration continues, participants eagerly anticipate the remaining events designed to foster unity, reflection, and forward-thinking engagement.

‎Upcoming Highlights of SJC @ 70 Celebration:

• ‎ Day 4– March 19

‎  Inter-House Sports Competition

‎  9:00 AM | School Front Field

• ‎Day 5– March 20

‎  Medical Outreach

‎10:00 AM | Osemawe Palace

‎Students’ Welfare Programme–

‎ 2:00 PM | School Hall

• ‎Day 6– March 21

‎AGM – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM |  School Hall

‎Gala Night – 6:00 PM |  Ondo Civic Centre

• ‎Day 7 – March 22

‎ Thanksgiving Service & Closing Ceremony

‎  8:00 AM |  School Chapel

‎The influx of visitors has energized Ondo City, boosting local activity and reinforcing communal pride.

More than a celebration, SJC at 70 represents a powerful reunion— one that reconnects old friends, honours a storied past, and ignites inspiration for generations to come.