SOYINKA URGES OAU STUDENTS TO EMBRACE INNOVATION
Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has urged students of the Department of Dramatic Arts at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, to embrace innovation, creativity and new ideas rather than allow themselves to become stagnant.
The renowned playwright and literary icon gave the advice as the department marked its 50th anniversary, celebrating five decades of contributions to theatre, scholarship and the creative industry.
Soyinka, who was the department’s pioneer Head of Department, has played a significant role in shaping its philosophy and development since its establishment in the 1970s.
The golden jubilee provides an opportunity to reflect on the department’s legacy while considering the future of theatre education and performance in an increasingly digital and technology-driven world.
The anniversary programme, tagged “The Jubilee in Four Acts,” commenced on November 12, 2026, with a flag-off ceremony at the university’s Pit Theatre, where Soyinka was scheduled to unveil the anniversary logo.
The celebration will also feature an anniversary lecture by Professor Bode Sowande on January 12, 2027, with Professor Ahmed Yerima and Paulyn Ugbodaga expected to moderate the panel session.
The department has produced several prominent figures in Nigeria’s theatre and creative industries, including Ahmed Yerima, Yemi Sodimu, Yemi Solade, Segun Arinze and other notable practitioners.
As it celebrates its milestone, the department is also seeking support from alumni, government and corporate organisations to address infrastructure needs, including theatre renovation, modern lighting and sound equipment, an upgraded library and production facilities.
The anniversary is expected to bring together former students, academics, theatre practitioners and cultural figures to celebrate the department’s achievements and discuss its future.
