The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has announced a two-day Cultural Carnival aimed at unifying the various cultural associations in the institution.
The Director, Institute of Africa Studies, Prof. Florence Orabueze disclosed this on Thursday in Nsukka while briefing newsmen on the event.
Orabueze described the event as a unifying programme aimed at reawakening the consciousness of the various peoples of Nigeria on their rich cultural heritage.
She said that the carnival which was the first of its kind in the institution would hold on April 23.
She said that the carnival would promote the use of native languages in the country.
The director said that most Nigerians, especially, the younger generation were ignorant of their culture and traditions.
The don said that violent crimes, armed robbery and other social vices were abhorrent in every culture and tradition.
According to her, lack of awareness in one’s cultural heritage and traditions could lead to some societal vices including insecurity, suicide, cybercrime, kidnap, killing and others.
“One of the objectives of this carnival is to promote Nigerian languages and traditions for our children to know that we have rich cultural heritage,” she said.
Orabueze mentioned the official partners of the organisers of the carnival to include UNN Business School, Enugu Campus and Nigerian Breweries Plc.
She said that the opening ceremony of the event slated for April 22, would feature a debate in native languages by students.
The director said that the carnival would also feature cultural caravan, cultural dance competition and traditional wrestling.
Others are cultural fashion parade and masquerades entertainment from different states of the federation.
“Students’ associations in UNN from different states of the federation have been mobilised to showcase the culture of their various states. This event will help to reconnect them to their roots and cultural backgrounds,” she said.
Orabueze said that former First Lady of Enugu State, Mrs Clara Chime and the Anglican Archbishop of Enugu Diocese, Bishop Emmanuel Chukwuma would grace the occasion.
The theme of the event is ‘Cultural Revival in a Multi-ethnic Society’.