The Vice-Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University, Prof. Oto-Abasi Akpan, has pledged to institutionalise the university’s Cultural Week following the success of its maiden edition.
The event, held at the main campus in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, was organised by the Centre for Creative Economy and Cultural Studies in partnership with the university’s NAAKIS chapter.
Speaking at the programme themed “Orange Architecture in Action: Heritage, Innovation and Enterprise,” Prof. Akpan said the establishment of CCECS by his administration was designed to complement the state government’s annual “Christmas Unplug” initiative.
He commended the pioneer Director of CCECS, Dr Ofonmbuk Atakpa, for translating the vision into a full-scale cultural celebration.
“We are building a university that not only trains minds but also preserves identity,” the VC said. He also thanked Governor Pastor Umo Eno for his support to the institution, and acknowledged the Chancellor, Ntyenyin Solomon Etuk, Pro-Chancellor, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, as well as management, staff and students for their contributions to the university’s growth.
The Special Guest of Honour and Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anietie Udofia, applauded the university community for the initiative. He said such programmes would encourage young people to embrace, appreciate and protect their cultural heritage from extinction.
Other speakers, including the Chairman of the occasion and Chief Medical Director of Well-Alive Hospital, Dr Israel Ben, and the Director of CCECS, stressed the need to reawaken cultural consciousness among the people to drive economic viability.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of the maiden edition of the International Journal of Culture and Creative Economy by Dr Atakpa to the Vice-Chancellor, and the conferment of CCECS AKSU Hall of Fame Awards on deserving personalities.
The university said the Cultural Week will now feature annually as part of efforts to promote heritage, creativity and enterprise among students and the wider Akwa Ibom community.
