By Blessing George
Culture is a diverse concept that encompasses the entirety of a people’s way of life. It is a combination of customs, traditions, values, beliefs, practices, language, arts, dressing, music, and cuisine that shape the identity and behaviour of a community.
It is believed that culture also influences how individuals live, interact and make sense of the world around them.
Culture is passed is transitory from one generation to another , evolving and adapting to changing circumstances while retaining its core values.
All these were reflected when the National Association of Esit Eket Students (NAEES), Akwa ibom state Polytechnic chapter , Ikot Osurua, celebrated their Cultural Day with great pomp and pageantry on theme “Culture in Diversity” displaying the rich cultural heritage of Esit Eket people and featured traditional dances, music, and attire of their people.
The colorful procession was marked by students dressed in their finest traditional attire, showcasing the unique cultural practices and traditions of Esit Eket people.
The event was a testament to importance of celebrating their roots.
The traditional dishes exhibition was equally impressive as students presentee and served variety of local delicacies that to entertained their guests and colleagues .
The aroma of traditional cuisine wafted through the air accentuating the festive atmosphere.
The dishes displayed were a testament to the rich heritage of Esit Eket and students’ ability to showcase their local foods in style and pride .
Again ,it was a platform for students to unite and learn from one another’s cultural practices, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness.
By celebrating their cultural heritage, the students were able to connect with their roots and appreciate the importance of preserving and promoting their traditions.
The success of the Cultural Day celebration was another pointer to the facts that in addition to academic activities , executives and members have worked tirelessly to ensure that the capture their roots and preserve them for another generation.
Another group from Eastern Obolo students on campus was unique
According to the president of the Eastern Obolo students Henrietta Nglass, culture stands as the foundation upon which a community’s way of life is built.
” It is a dynamic and ever-evolving entity that is essential to the well-being and identity of individuals and communities.
“Through culture, people express their creativity, imagination, and innovation, creating a vibrant tapestry of art, music, literature, and other forms of expression.
“Culture fosters vital role in shaping values and morals, guiding individuals on how to live in harmony with others and how their environment”.
In a vibrant celebration of their rich heritage, the Eastern Obolo Student Association recently came together to commemorate their cultural day
on the theme “ORO’MIJON N`A ORE GOGOLEK NA” (My Culture, My Pride) at Ikot Osurua Primary School with Comrade Henrietta Nglass, AkwaPoly chapter President, helm of affairs.
Nglass said the event showed students’ commitment to preserving and promoting their cultural identity.
It featured cultural displays, alongside the majestic masquerade “Ewa or Ogbodbo” traditional dances, and exhibitions of traditional attires that depicts the unique heritage of Eastern Obolo.
Obolo people who are predominantly residing in the coastal areas of Akwa Ibom State with distinct cultural identity deeply rooted in their history and traditions.
” Our cultural heritage is a blend of our ancestry and the influences of our geographical location” .
The student celebration was an embodiment of their rich cultural legacy, with each performance and display highlighting a facet of their vibrant culture.
The cultural festival kicked off with a procession of students dressed in traditional attires to depicts the unique fashion sense of the Eastern Obolo people.
Nglass said the “Etibo” and “Wurkor” dresses, signature attires of the Obolo were prominently displayed with a splash of color and vibrancy to the occasion.
She said the masquerade performance of “Ewa or Ogbodbo” was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the event.
The masquerade, known for its energetic and captivating performance held the audience in in their dance and chanting along the rhythm of traditional drums.
In support of the students adventure into culture , prominent guests including dignitaries from School of Communication Arts and students from other departments graced the occasion.
In his remarks the Chairman of the Occasion and chairman of Eastern Obolo local government area Hon Samuel Nteitujah urged students to preserve their culture and protect it jealously .
He noted that the celebration was not just about showcasing their culture but also passing on the traditions and values to the younger generation.
“The Cultural Day celebration is an annual event for the Eastern Obolo Student Association, AkwaPoly chapter. It provides a platform for the students to connect with their cultural heritage and showcase it to others.
“The event has become an integral part of the students’ calendar, promoting cultural understanding, awareness and exchange with the Polytechnic community”.
He commended Obolo students, AkwaPoly chapter for their efforts in promoting Cultural awareness and preservation.
” Your celebration is symbol to show the rich Cultural diversity of Nigeria and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage”.
Esit Eket, Oro students relive culture as tool for unification, tourism
