Federal University Kashere VC advocates theatre arts for nation building

The Vice-Chancellor of Kashere University, Gombe, Professor Umar Pate, has stressed the need for the involvement of Theatre Arts professionals in the arts of nation-building.

Prof. Pate made this known in a lecture on the theme 60 Years of Theatre Practise in Nigeria as part of activities marking the 60th anniversary of the Theatre Arts Department of the University of Ibadan on Wednesday.

He said the practitioners, with their training, have all that it takes to lead the Country.

Pate noted the need for integrating theatre arts into Nigeria’s creative economy framework and implementing institutional measures to address the complexities and consequences of performing arts in the national development context.

According to him, “The progress of theatre Arts varies across the country, with the southwest region taking the lead.

Nigerians harbour a genuine fondness for the theatre, yet various factors influence the extent to which individuals can access it.”

“Embracing technology in the realm of theatre arts necessitates addressing the myriad challenges posed by the advent of the internet and changes in curriculum.

Successfully integrating these new tools into training and refining how we interact with our audiences demands considerable effort.”

Also in his address, the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Professor Duro Oni, spoke on the department’s incredible journey and its profound impact on Nigeria’s arts scene.

“UI Theatre Arts at 60 signifies an incredible journey characterised by growth, evolution, and innovation.

From its inception till now, we have borne witness to the transformation of an art form that consistently captures the essence of the human experience.”