History made as Oxford University appoints first Igbo language lecturer

History made as Oxford University appoints first Igbo language lecturer

Against the 2006 prediction by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) that it may go into extinction by 2025, Igbo — the principal native language spoken in Eastern Nigeria — has gained global recognition.

This feat followed the appointment of a Nigerian academic, Emmanuel Ikechukwu Umeonyirioha as the first Igbo language lecturer at the University of Oxford, England

Taking to his Twitter page on Thursday night, Umeonyirioha made the announcement, saying it was the first time that the language would be taught at the prestigious varsity.

Revealing that he was inducted by Marion Sadoux, Head of Modern Language Programmes, University of Oxford Language Centre, the lecturer promised to make the Igbo language and culture known to the world.

He wrote, “It is official that I am the first official Igbo Language lecturer at the number one university in the world, the University of Oxford.

“Our induction happened today by Marion Sadoux, Head of Modern Language Programmes, University of Oxford Language Centre.

“This became possible in the account of the James Currey Society. This is the first time the Igbo language will be taught at the university. History has been made.

“I am so happy and grateful for this opportunity. I promise to make the Igbo language and culture known to the world.

“First class starts next week Thursday, 3-4 pm, on 12 Woodstock Road.”

This development may be considered a big win for concerned Igbo indigenes who had been working to preserve and promote their mother tongue, and save the language from going into extinction by 2025 as predicted by UNESCO in 2006.

editor

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