The newly constructed gym comes as a major addition to the Calabar Sports Complex and was made possible through a Memorandum of Understanding signed in late September 2018 with the Wisynco Group. The agreement facilitated the construction of the gymnasium through an initial donation of $5 million through Wisynco's Loyalty Programme — which aims to provide assistance for developmental projects in schools.

According to Director of Marketing and IT at Wisynco, Francois Chalifour, the new structure stands as a testament to Wisynco's commitment to youth and community development.

“Wisynco is very happy to be a part of these kinds of opportunities. In keeping with our loyalty programme, we reach out to schools in an effort to give back to society. We will continue to endeavour to partner with projects such as these which are positioned as possible income earners for our nation's schools,” said Chalifour.

Wisynco said the facility, which was named in honour of Calabar old boy and celebrated public servant, Dr Vincent Lawrence, has resulted from years of anticipation and effort from the Calabar Old Boys' Association (COBA).

“He has been one of the most outstanding old boys. He was the sponsor of the track that we have here [Calabar Sports Complex] and it is very fitting that we name this gym in his honour,” Calabar Principal, Albert Corcho, said.

Wisynco said the fully equipped gymnasium is now poised to fulfil the preparatory needs of the strong athletic programmes at the school and properly aid the development of student athletes.

“Wisynco has been on board for many years with their Loyalty Programme, their Recycling Programme and they are also a part of our mentorship programme. I think Wisynco has an understanding of what it means to educate boys but by and large I think it is good that they have stuck with us,” Corcho said.

“It [the gym] is going to serve the entire Calabar community. We want to use it as a means of wellness and encourage our teachers and students to use it to add value to their lives,” the principal added.

The Calabar Sports Complex was opened in 2016 as a potential revenue earner through rental of the facility to external bodies, in addition to facilitating training for students participating in the schools range of sport programmes.

Table tennis, track and field, badminton, football, volley ball, cricket and swimming are some of the sport programmes available at the institution.