Mrs Bolajoko Morolake Falore (née Thompson), the esteemed educationist and Proprietress of Mind Builders School, will celebrate her 70th birthday on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. Born on Saturday, June 23, 1956, into the prominent Gureje–Thompson family of Eti-Oni, near Ilesa, in present-day Atakumosa East Local Council Area of Osun State, her life has been a testament to dedication and service in education.
Early Life and Family Background
Her father, Chief Samuel Olatunde Thompson, was a distinguished education administrator who served as Bursar of Ilesa Grammar School and later retired as Bursar of Oduduwa College, Ile-Ife. He was also a respected traditional ruler, becoming the Oloni of Eti-Oni in September 1957 and reigning until his passing in 1992.
Educational Journey
Mrs Falore began her education at St. John’s ‘B’ Primary School, Iloro, Ilesa, and attended Methodist High School, Ilesa, completing her secondary education in 1974. She joined the pioneer set of the UPE-sponsored Teacher Training Programme at the Government Teacher Training College (GTTC), Ilesa. After qualifying as a Grade II Teacher, she taught at St. John’s School A, Iloro, before proceeding to Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo State, where she obtained an NCE in 1981. She later earned a university degree and a Master’s degree.
Career and Marriage
After completing the NYSC programme at Government College, Ikoyi (1982–1983), she married her longtime friend on April 2, 1983. She then taught at Queen’s College, Yaba, Lagos State. She earned her university degree from the University of Ife in 1988 and a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from the University of Lagos. She later joined Atlantic Hall as a pioneer teacher and served as an Inspector of Education in the Lagos State Ministry of Education. After 10 years of service, she voluntarily retired as a Senior Inspector of Education in 1997 to pursue her dream.
Founding Mind Builders School
In January 1998, with her husband’s support, she founded Mind Builders School, starting with 18 pupils and six teachers in a duplex wing at Omole Phase 1 Estate, Lagos. She has been actively involved in private education development, serving as Chairman of the Ikeja Chapter of NAPPS, Lagos State, contributing to APEN, and currently serving as President of OMEP, Lagos Chapter.
Contributions to Education
Her contributions include establishing Mind Builders School, advancing teacher professional development, mentoring educational leaders, promoting child-centered and inclusive education, and supporting women leadership in education.
