UKZN Nigerian Students Mark the Anniversary of Nigeria’s Independence

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The Association of Nigerian Students UKZN (ANSU) recently hosted the first of its annual Independence Day Symposium in commemoration of Nigeria’s Independence.

The symposium, held on 30 September, was themed Mainstreaming Students in Nigerian Diasporan Welfare Administration: The South African Experience.

Nigeria gained independence from colonial rule on 1 October 1960.

The symposium was attended by dignitaries, University staff, students and well-wishers. The keynote address was delivered by Nigeria’s Consul General in South Africa, Honourable Mr Godwin Adama. Adama spoke of how the Nigerian government’s three-point agenda on security, anti-corruption and economy aligns with the welfare of students in the diaspora. ‘It is imperative to think of students’ welfare as an integral part of the National Diaspora policy and students’ mainstreaming as one of the strategies towards the attainment of a flourishing economy and a secured and corruption free nation,’ said the Consul General. He further spoke about the efforts being made by the Consulate to give special attention to education matters as well as to simplify renewal and issuance of passports. Finally, he called on students to be law abiding and adapt to the international and intercultural community which UKZN and South Africa as whole offers. The Consul General thanked ANSU and UKZN’s representative from the International Relations Office, Ms Reshina Umra, for the invitation and warm welcome.

Mr Israel Oyebamiji, President of ANSU, spoke highly of the organisation – which is barely one year old in official terms – as an association that aims to promote the welfare and concerns of all Nigerian students of the University of KwaZulu-Natal. ANSU also appreciates the social and cultural diversity in South Africa and UKZN in particular and therefore, sees itself as an important actor towards promoting intercultural living as well as supporting social cohesion. Oyebamiji acknowledged that the symposium marked a milestone in the history of ANSU and a beginning of many collaborations with the University. He also made a call for more Nigerian students to join the association as ANSU also shares scholarship adverts and career building opportunities amongst its members. The symposium continued with a presentation by Dr Yemisi Oyegbile on Challenges of being an international student in South Africa and the way forward. Discussions and questions followed. Falling on a day which marks the end of heritage month, the day could not end without traditional music and a performance from UKZN’s student dance group B-MASS. The celebrations ended with guests being treated to local cuisines of jollof rice with chicken and Semo with vegetable soup!

Words: Anthony Odili