As part of its core mandates of promoting Igbo cultural renaissance, the ’Iruka Centre’- Centre for the study of the future of the Igbo, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has organized a debate competition among students of the institution.

The debate which was titled: “Olu Aka na Olu Bekee Kee Nke Ka Akwanite Obodo”, was meant to reawaken the consciousness of the students in Igbo culture.

Declaring the event open, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Sunday Elom eulogized the Centre for organizing such a programme which he described as timely, considering that language is a vehicle for effective interaction.

He thanked the Director of the center, Dr Anne Nwankwo, for being proactive in the promotion of Igbo Language, using the Centre as a driving force which he said places AE-FUNAI on a high pedestal as one of the promoters of Igbo culture in Nigeria.

Professor Elom, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Abel Ezeoha, further stated that the University will continue to support the promotion of Igbo Language, as one of the federal Universities sited in Igbo Land.

Earlier while delivering her welcome address, the Director of the Center, Dr Anne Nwankwo said the constant call on Igbos for the preservation of the Igbo culture, especially language became necessary for future tale. She urged participants to be proud of their identity as the debating activity was a test to their level of knowledge In Igbo Language.

Highlights of the occasion include spot discussion on the value of Igbo Language on an individual, award of cash prizes to the best performed discussant and dance by students of the Department of Igbo language.