Promoting Multilingualism for Global Citizenship: Abia State University's 72nd Inaugural Lecture

Professor Kate Nbunne Nwabugwu Ndukauba, a distinguished scholar in French Language and Translation Studies, highlighted the paramount importance of multilingualism in the modern world, emphasizing its significance in the pursuit of global citizenship. This illuminating discourse took place during the 72nd Inaugural Lecture at Abia State University, Uturu, titled "Speaking in Diverse Tongues: A Gateway to Global Citizenship."

Professor Ndukauba's lecture illuminated the reality that global citizenship is no longer a matter of choice, but an essential response to the challenges of our contemporary world. She asserted that being proficient in more than one international language is a key component of global citizenship, as it opens doors to a diverse cultural world. The erudite professor explained that limiting oneself to just one foreign language amounts to isolating oneself from the rich cultural tapestry of the world. In contrast, those who are multilingual and proficient in multiple international languages are, in essence, global citizens, poised to engage with the world on a broader scale.

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Furthermore, Professor Ndukauba stressed that multilingualism must be regarded as a necessity, particularly in Nigeria and Abia State, where governments already have established business connections with foreign nations. In light of this, she proposed several recommendations such as Government should invest in training and retraining French language teachers and establish more French language centers to facilitate language learning. French language should be made a compulsory subject from nursery to school certificate levels. The Federal Government should take further steps to implement the declaration of the French language as the second official language in Nigeria.

Distinguished Professor Onyemachi M. Ogbulu, the Vice-Chancellor and Chairman of the occasion, praised Professor Ndukauba for being the first in her department to deliver an Inaugural Lecture. He emphasized the importance of implementing the national policy on language, starting from individuals and universities and extending to the broader society. He urged parents and prospective students to consider diversifying their career choices to include language studies. Additionally, the Vice-Chancellor announced that the university will soon commence a certificate course in the Chinese language. He also cautioned admission seekers to be vigilant and avoid fraudsters who claim to help secure admission, clarifying that admissions are granted by JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board), and universities can only make recommendations.

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The event culminated in the admission of Professor Kate Ndukauba into the college of Distinguished Professors of the University. The Vice-Chancellor presented her with a plaque on behalf of the university, and the Faculty, Department, and friends extended their congratulations with thoughtful gifts. The 72nd Inaugural Lecture at Abia State University brought together the institution's principal officers, family members of the Inaugural Lecturer, including former First Lady of the State, Deaconess Nkechi Ikpeazu Ph.D., and former Deputy Governor Chief Acho Nwakanma, among other distinguished guests.