Kwara Govt to commemorate International Students’ Day in grandstyle

• Prof Adesoye, Ibrahim Chatta to headline cultural event

The Kwara State Government is set to mark the International Students’ Day, a global celebration recognising the contributions, uniqueness and challenges of students across societies.

A statement on Sunday by Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Affairs, Hon. Salami Wasiu Onidugbé, said the celebration will be the first of its kind in the state, and will also serve as a platform to showcase Kwara’s cultural heritage, and promote awareness on diversity and inclusion.

Onidugbe announced that the event will hold on Tuesday, 19th November 2024 at the Kwara State Banquet Hall, with the theme ‘Embracing Cultural Diversity, Promoting Inclusion and Igniting Greatness.’

He said the traditional event day which is November 17 falls on a Sunday, and organising the event on that exact date may not allow participation from Christian students.

“The event is designed to celebrate students in Kwara State, recognizing their academic achievements, cultural diversity, and contributions to the state’s development. Notable Kwarans excelling in their different niches in the education and cultural sector will attend to speak about embracing cultural diversity, promoting inclusion, and igniting greatness,” the Governor’s aide stated.

The event will feature paper presentations, cultural contest, and a panel session, according to Onidugbe.

“Renowned Professor of Performing and Film Arts at the University of Ilorin, Abdulrasheed Abiodun Adesoye, will speak extensively on the significance of education in promotion cultural understanding and peace,” he said.

“Also, indigenous student associations will participate in a cultural contest, showcasing their cultural heritages. Specifically, Ilorin Emirate Students’ Union will display Durbar; Offa Students’ Union will present Ijakadi; Shao Students’ Union will perform Sango magical; Igbomina National Students’ Union will showcase Igbomina traditional dance; National Association of Kaiama Students will display Kaiama sankisa dance; National Association of Baruten Students will perform Tekke dance; and National Association of Nupe Students will perform Tsankan and Nupe waist dance. Top performers will get cash prizes.

“There will also be a panel session featuring stakeholders in education and the cultural sector. Ibrahim Chatta, a filmmaker and founder of Africhatta Film Village, will discuss storytelling as a tool for cultural preservation and exchange. Simire Omotoyosi Tijesuni, a fashion brand owner, will focus on cultural influences on fashion trends and design. Abdulmumin Khadijah Teniola (Mhiz Dija), a content creator, will address content creation and cultural representation in the digital age.

“More so, Sakariyau Lawal Yittametu, an historian, will highlight the significance of cultural heritage in shaping national identity. Ibrahim Omoniyi Yusuf, the curator of Esie Museum, will demonstrate expertise on preserving cultural artifacts and historic sites: challenges and opportunities. Abdulkadir Uthman, a linguist, will engage the audience on literary representations of cultural diversity and identity.”

Onidugbe said students’ union leaders across tertiary institutions in the state are expected to attend the celebration, where they will be decorated as Peace Ambassadors in recognition of their efforts in maintaining peace and orderliness on their various campuses.