Bowen Don, Olutayo, Advocates for Abolition of Inflammatory Words in Conversations

Professor Grace Olutayo of Bowen University has called on civil servants, government officials, business professionals, and educators to avoid using inflammatory language in their interactions.

Jul 1, 2024 - 12:04

Bowen Don, Olutayo, Advocates for Abolition of Inflammatory Words in Conversations

Professor Grace Olutayo of Bowen University has urged civil servants, government officials, business professionals, and educators to avoid using provocative language in their interactions. She made this call during her inaugural lecture, titled "Language: A Spice for Seasoned Conversation," marking the 14th edition of the university’s inaugural lecture series, held on June 27, 2024.

Professor Olutayo emphasized the importance of using respectful and courteous language to enhance human relationships and interactions. She advocated for conversations to be devoid of inflammatory language, instead enriched with empathy, discretion, and purpose. According to Olutayo, well-seasoned language in debates and discussions is crucial for conflict resolution and crisis management.

In her lecture, Olutayo defined a seasoned conversation as one where participants respect each other’s perspectives, manage interruptions effectively, and engage in meaningful exchanges. She highlighted that such conversations lead to better negotiation of ideas and foster empathy and compassion.

Olutayo appealed to politicians at all levels to adopt respectful language in their assemblies, stressing that seasoned words can elevate discourse and contribute to societal harmony. She also encouraged teachers to use simple and clear language in their communication with students, which would enhance student engagement and academic performance.

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Addressing the press, Professor Olutayo pointed out that inadequate research funding in Nigeria hampers the contributions of Nigerian researchers to nation-building, particularly in technology, industry, and social and political development. She called on the government to support research in both private and public universities to strengthen the university-society relationship.

Bowen University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jonathan Babalola, endorsed Olutayo’s views, stating that words are more powerful than weapons and must be used wisely by government officials and politicians.