Why My Family Started School for Traditional Worshippers – Coordinator

A Legacy of Culture and Education

Omolewa Sorinola, daughter of the late Chief Oludare Soneye, shares her story with Bankole Taiwo about Atunfase Traditional School in Ikenne, a unique institution that preserves Yoruba culture while delivering modern education.

Background and Personal Insights

Omolewa Sorinola, née Soneye, is the firstborn and first daughter of Mr. Oludare Ifashina Soneye, the founder of Atunfase Traditional School in Ikenne Remo, Ogun State. She is 36 years old, married with children, and holds a degree in Mass Communication from Lagos State University. Although she was trained as a journalist, she chose to pursue a career in business and became an entrepreneur.

She describes her relationship with her father as very close. He loved all his children and shared a strong bond with them. Her father’s vision for the school stemmed from a specific incident in 2019 when a young boy fell ill and required wearing an ode Ifa, a traditional bracelet. The school he attended refused to allow him to wear it, leading to a conflict that inspired her father to establish Atunfase Traditional School.

The Vision Behind the School

The incident highlighted the need for a space where students could practice their cultural and religious beliefs without discrimination. Chief Soneye envisioned a place where African Traditional Religion, including the deities, herbs, and roots, could be taught alongside the government curriculum. In response to the incident, he founded Atunfase Traditional School in September 2019, initially operating from the Ijo Orunmila building in Ikenne. In 2022, the school moved to its permanent site along Odogbolu Road.

Challenges and Progress

Despite not having full government approval, the school has been working diligently to meet guidelines, such as establishing a school bay. They partner with a government-approved school for examinations like BECE and WAEC. The journey has been challenging, particularly in changing public perceptions about traditional practices.

Chief Soneye was a multifaceted individual—goal-oriented, a cultural ambassador, herbalist, and traditional birth attendant. His legacy continues through his children and supporters who are committed to preserving his vision.

Unique Aspects of the School

Atunfase Traditional School stands out by offering African Traditional Religion Knowledge and African Traditional Medicine Knowledge. Students learn about the Orishas, Ifa, and the use of herbs and roots for treating ailments. This knowledge benefits those pursuing careers in pharmacy or medicine.

The school is open to students of all faiths, emphasizing values like honesty, integrity, and respect. It blends modern and traditional elements in its uniforms, with secondary students wearing native attire and primary students in modern uniforms.

Community and Future Outlook

Public perception remains a challenge, with many associating tradition with negativity. However, the school aims to educate the public and correct misconceptions. Partnerships with supportive schools like Classique School have been beneficial.

The school spans over six acres of land, providing room for expansion. Two of Chief Soneye’s sons are following in his footsteps. Despite living in Lagos, Omolewa manages the school through regular visits and the support of family members.

Cultural Significance

Omolewa, raised in a traditional environment, continues to practice her heritage by wearing the ode Ifa. While only male members of her family can consult the Ifa oracle, she honors her father’s legacy through her actions.

Chief Soneye, who had O-Level certificates, was pursuing a degree in Yoruba Education at Tai Solarin University of Education before his passing in June 2025 at the age of 57.

Conclusion

Atunfase Traditional School represents a unique blend of tradition and modernity, offering a holistic education that respects and preserves Yoruba culture. Its mission is to educate not just academically but also culturally, fostering values that benefit students regardless of their faith. The school's journey reflects the resilience of its founders and the importance of cultural preservation in contemporary education.