Education, culture intertwined — Egbewole
By Isaac Lewu
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof.Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has said that education and culture are inseparably intertwined, shaping not only what is taught in class but also how knowledge is transmitted and received.
Prof. Egbewole also noted that cultural values and norms significantly influence the educational process, stressing that the University system must continue to reflect and promote society’s rich heritage.
The Vice Chancellor made these remarks last Wednesday (May 6, 2026) at the second edition of the UNILORIN Cultural Day held at the University Auditorium.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Taibat Moji Odunola-Bakare, the Vice Chancellor said that he holds culture in high esteem and remains committed to initiatives that promote cultural awareness within the University community.
He said that culture remains a vital force in moulding students’ character, engagement, and overall learning experience, adding that both concepts function as a continuous twin in advancing societal development.
The Vice Chancellor commended the Director of the Centre for Cultural Studies and Creative Arts (CSCA), Prof. Raymond Olutoyin Ogunade, for successfully organising the second edition of the event, which he described as a demonstration of excellence and vision capable of projecting the University to greater heights.
Prof. Egbewole further appreciated cultural icons and other participants at the event, including guest artistes and contributors to the event, noting that they exemplify the essence of cultural preservation and socialisation.
He reiterated that the University of Ilorin would continue to promote initiatives that reinforce the connection between education and culture, while encouraging students to uphold values that make them worthy ambassadors of the institution.
In his welcome address the Director of the CSCA, Prof. Raymond Olutoyin Ogunade, described culture as a vital force that connects generations and preserves the identity of the African people.
Prof. Ogunade stressed that Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage remains a source of resilience, unity and social continuity despite the growing influence of globalisation.
He further explained that the theme, “Lest We Forget”, serves as a reminder of the need to preserve indigenous values, languages, traditions and artistic expressions from extinction.
The Director pointed out that African culture must not only be studied and documented, but it must also be actively practised and promoted through scholarship, theatre, literature and the media.
The Director also commended the University management, scholars and cultural practitioners for their commitment to advancing African cultural studies, noting that institutions of higher learning have a critical role to play in ensuring that younger generations appreciate and sustain the nation’s cultural heritage for future development.
Speaking at the event, a renowned Yoruba traditional drummer, Chief Ayowunmi Ayanwale Adeyanju, described language as a vital tool for preserving and transmitting culture from one generation to another. He noted that culture is dynamic and should be allowed to grow and expand in line with societal development while still retaining its original values and identity.
Chief Adeyanju, who led an exciting drum performance at the event, also explained that in Yoruba tradition, Osun represents more than love and beauty, as she symbolises creation, fertility and balance within the society.
According to him, the story reflects the important role women play in sustaining peace, unity and human existence, stressing the need to preserve indigenous traditions and cultural heritage.
Chief Adeyanju expressed delight that the event was chaired by a woman (the Deputy Vice Chancellor), saying it reflects the commitment of the University of Ilorin to gender equality and inclusivity. He added that the institution does not discriminate against women but gives them equal opportunities to contribute meaningfully to academic and cultural development.
Also speaking, a popular Nollywood actor, Mr Ibrahim Abiodun Chatta, charged students of the University to always uphold and promote their culture wherever they find themselves across the world. He noted that culture remains a strong identity for people generally and should be preserved with pride and dignity.
The Nollywood actor also advised students to take their studies seriously, stressing that youth remains the best stage of life for academic pursuits. According to him, pursuing education at an older age often comes with several responsibilities and distractions that may affect concentration and performance.
Mr. Chatta further stated that Africans had played significant roles in world civilisation, adding that an African was once a pivotal figure in the Roman Empire who established a dynasty many years ago.
He urged students to appreciate the rich history and contributions of Africa to global development.
The event featured cultural performances, scholarly discussions and presentations aimed at promoting African identity and values. Members of the University community and other guests at the event were all decked in colourful traditional attires.
Among the dignitaries at the event were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Olalere Adeyemi; the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Technology and Innovation), Prof. Muhtar Adeiza Etudaiye; the Registrar of the University, Mr Mansur Alfanla, who was represented by a Deputy Registrar, Mrs Sherifat Temitope Lawal; the Bursar, Mr Abiodun Lawal, who was represented by a Deputy Bursar, Mrs Sherifat Ibrahim Alege as well as Deans, Directors and Heads of Departments.
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