Stardom School finally accepts that Mr. Bepo is leaving, so they organize a big farewell celebration for him. Because of this, he has to delay his flight, and though the airline charges him a $100 fine, the school happily pays it.
The send-off begins on Wednesday with a football match between staff and students. With the help of the games master, Mr. Ibe, the staff cheat a little and win 3-2, which makes everyone laugh.
On Thursday, a debate is held in his honour on the topic: “The arts have contributed more to the development of the country than the sciences.” Mr. Bepo is amazed by the brilliance of his students.
He remembers a Yoruba saying that even if a master carver stops working, the carvings he leaves behind will always remain. He feels that his students are like his “carvings.”
Friday is the grand finale. There are songs, comedy performances where students imitate their teachers, and dances from the drama club. During one performance about their trip to Badagry, Mr. Bepo gets emotional as he remembers the painful history of slavery at the Heritage Museum. Without thinking, he shouts, “Nooo!” The students pause in confusion, but he quickly covers up by praising their canoe dance. Everyone laughs and claps, and the show continues.
At the end, the Managing Director (MD) gives a moving speech. She recalls how her late father hired Mr. Bepo, knowing he would be an asset to the school. She praises him highly and then surprises him with a farewell gift: a cheque of $10,000, the biggest the school had ever given to any staff member leaving.
Finally, Mr. Bepo is handed the microphone. He tries to give his farewell speech, but his emotions overwhelm him, and he sobs. The audience understands, and the atmosphere is filled with love and respect.
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