Plateau State University (PLASU), Bokkos has hosted a spectacular cultural festival, igniting a passion for local traditions among thousands of students and lecturers. The event, tagged “GST 112 Cultural Festival,” took place on July 30th, transforming the university campus into a vibrant hub of Nigerian heritage.
The festival was a rich tapestry of cultural expression, featuring colorful dance displays, captivating presentations on the history of various Nigerian tribes, and a unique rendition of the national anthem translated into local languages. Attendees also savored diverse cultural cuisines, making it a truly immersive experience.
Professor Shedrack Best, the Vice Chancellor of PLASU, underscored the festival’s critical role in both projecting Nigerian cultures globally and preserving them for future generations. Speaking at the event through his representative, Associate Professor Obida Yamma, Professor Best voiced concerns about the erosion of African cultures due to increasing Western and global influences.
“This is not just an academic exercise,” Professor Best emphasized. “Beyond earning marks, you’re projecting our African heritage.” He challenged participants to leverage globalization as a tool to promote their unique identity, adding, “We want to continue to showcase to the world that we have traditional festivals and cultural heritage that can compete with anyone around the world.”
Professor Dr. Priscilla Makos, Head of the Department of General Studies at PLASU, explained that the festival is an integral part of “Nigerian Peoples and Culture,” a mandatory course in Nigerian universities. The initiative aims to foster appreciation and preservation of cultural heritage among students.
“We have a lot to share with the world out there,” said Dr. Makos. “This is one of the platforms to create this awareness. In times past, we appreciated external cultures, but this is designed to bring together diverse languages and tribes to showcase and better appreciate our diverse cultural heritage.”
Masara Kim
Acting Public Relations Officer
Plateau State University Bokkos