AAU Ekpoma's 121st Inaugural Lecture: Expert Calls for Policies to Boost Dance's Impact on Human and Capital Development

By Esosa Omorogbe

Professor Mariam Asabe Iyeh, a renowned Professor of Dance Studies and Performance Aesthetics at Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, has emphasized the need for policies to enhance dance's role in human and capital development.

Delivering the 121st Inaugural Lecture titled "Dance Beyond Entertainment: The Many Faces of Dance in the Service of Humanity - Curriculum and Pedagogical Concerns" in Ekpoma, Professor Iyeh stressed that deliberate dance-focused policies are essential to drive development.

"To unlock dance's full potential and yield broader societal benefits, policymakers and stakeholders must acknowledge its value beyond mere entertainment," she said.

Professor Iyeh recommended the development of a comprehensive curriculum encompassing various branches of dance to support a robust degree program. She also urged dance scholars and practitioners in Nigeria to innovate their pedagogical strategies, making dance education more engaging and inspiring.

Furthermore, Professor Iyeh emphasized the therapeutic benefits of dance for health and well-being, encouraging the public to explore its broader implications beyond artistic performance.

Declaring the 121st Inaugural Lecture open, the Acting Vice Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Professor Sunday Olowo Samuel, stated that the university is gradually stabilizing its academic programs.

Represented by the Director of Academic Planning, Professor (Mrs.) Omoregie Eunice Oti, Professor Samuel expressed gratitude to Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his support in positively repositioning the University.

"I appreciate the renewed energy of our lecturers and students towards restoring our university to its former glory," Professor Samuel said. "It is our collective responsibility to contribute to the growth of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma."

High point of the event was the presentation of ceremonial medal and induction of the inaugural lecturer into the league of academic giants of the University.