On Saturday, 21st June 2025, under the soft glow of the evening lights at the beautiful Françoise Gardens, the Oak International School community gathered to celebrate a powerful milestone: the graduation of the Class of 2025. This year’s theme, “Roots to Rise,” beautifully reflected the growth, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped this remarkable class.

In her opening keynote, Director Mrs. Fajemirokun Ayodeji reminded students and guests:

“Roots are what ground us. They represent where we come from our values, our cultures, our families, and our experiences.

At OIS Benin, students have developed strong roots in excellence, resilience, global understanding, and self-awareness. Whether they began in Grade 1 or joined along the way, each graduate now stands ready to rise.

Salutatorian Janelle Zocli opened the evening with heartfelt thanks and encouragement:

“Today is not just a ceremony, it is a celebration of dedication, resilience, and growth. The friendships we’ve built and the lessons we’ve learned will stay with us as we move forward. May we follow our passions, keep learning, and strive for excellence, because the future is ours to shape.”

Valedictorian Sarah Wendeou followed with a powerful message of unity and purpose:

“This moment is a shared victory. We are not the same people who walked in on our first day. We’ve grown together. Let’s be bold, be kind, be curious. Let us strive not only for success but for significance. Remember, we now have our roots, so let us rise.”

Ovad Agbidinoukoun, Head of the Prefect Council, spoke with sincerity:

“Your time in this school has not been perfect, and that’s what makes it real. From unforgettable trips to ordinary days that meant everything, you’ve laid down roots that will carry you forward. You don’t need all the answers. Just your courage, your kindness, and your heart. Class of 2025, the world is waiting for you, not to fit in, but to rise boldly as yourselves.”

Achille Hinson, Class of 2024 alumnus, shared a message of belief:

“As you step into the next chapter, carry your lessons, your strengths, and your dreams with pride. You are ready for the world, and the world will give you all you wish for. I believe in you.”

Representing all families, Mr. Sylvain Hinson offered firm yet inspiring advice to the graduates:

“To all students, take your studies seriously. My own son is now studying in the U.S., and because he passed the AP exams at OIS, he only needed to validate 32 credits instead of 64 at university. Early preparation opens global doors. Take it seriously.”

As the evening closed, the Director reminded graduates:

“Grow with intention. Stretch upward thoughtfully. Let your purpose guide your direction.”

The Class of 2025 leaves not just with diplomas, but with deep roots, and the readiness to rise boldly into the future.

To the Class of 2025:

You are rooted in love, in learning, and in legacy. Now rise! Rise boldly into the unknown. Rise with gratitude, grace, and grit. Rise, not away from your roots, but because of them.

Congratulations, Oak International School Class of 2025. From the gardens of celebration to the fields of the future, the world awaits your greatness.

Graduation held at Françoise Gardens, Cotonou