A Maiden Cultural Day to be Celebrated Annually in Honour of Prof. Siyan Oyeweso
It was a colourful celebration of Yoruba culture and heritage, as the Faculty of Arts and Education, Fountain University, Osogbo, held its maiden Siyan Oyeweso Cultural Day.
The event, held on Wednesday at the University campus, is aimed at reviving and sustaining Yoruba language, traditions, and identity.
The event was named in honour of a cultural historian and Pro-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso, in recognition of his immense contributions to Yoruba culture, history, and academia.
Speaking at the event, Vice-Chancellor of Fountain University, Prof. Olayinka Ramota Karim, praised Oyeweso’s legacy and his longstanding support for both the university and its proprietors, NASFAT.
“We are delighted to name this event after Prof. Siyan Oyeweso in recognition of his unwavering dedication to education and culture. This maiden edition marks the beginning of a tradition we hope will continue annually,”
she said.
Prof. Karim further emphasized the university’s community-driven vision, stating that it’s committed to bridging the gap between the town and the gown.
“We believe in the synergy between the town and the gown. Fountain University is a friend to all, and our activities always involve the community to ensure mutual growth and success. We also put the community in consideration in all our activities and this will never be an exemption.” The VC said.
While speaking at the event, Prof. Siyan Oyeweso, who was visibly moved by the recognition, described the honour as a significant career milestone, expressing his readiness to continue to partner with the institution in different areas.
“Fountain University has set a new standard by recognizing my contributions to culture and education. This award is deeply humbling, and I commend the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olayinka Ramota Karim, for her visionary leadership.”
He also highlighted his research contributions to Islam and Yoruba heritage, noting that, “I have documented the issue of Islam in Yoruba land more than any other scholar, and I have three forthcoming publications detailing the histories of Ile-Ife, Oyo, and Ikorodu. These are researches that aim at bringing the connection between Yoruba culture and Islam.”
In her address, the Dean, College of Arts and Education, Prof. Serifat Olubunmi Labo-Popoola, underscored the cultural day’s deeper mission. She highlighted the need for collaboration with stakeholders.
Labo-Popoola also revealed the intention behind the event.
“We wanted this programme to showcase the richness of Yoruba culture and remind us of our source. While English is important, we must not forget our native language and identity. We hope this becomes an annual event that strengthens our cultural pride and promotes learning among students. ”
The ceremony featured vibrant cultural performances by students from Fountain University, secondary schools across Osogbo, and guests from Adeleke University.
The event was graced by dignitaries including Osun State Commissioner for Culture, Hon. Abiodun Bankole Ojo, traditional rulers, and prominent figures from the wider community.
Adding scholarly reflection, Dr. Saheed Amusa from the Department of History, Obafemi Awolowo University, encouraged a deeper appreciation of early Yoruba Muslims’ role in cultural preservation.
“Our predecessors successfully adopted Islam to Yoruba traditions. Instead of condemnation, we must celebrate their legacy and ensure its continuity.”
The celebration concluded with a renewed commitment by the university and attendees to uphold and promote Yoruba language, customs, and identity, making the Cultural Day a recurring beacon of pride for generations to come.
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