Daud Olatunji
Scholars in African countries and beyond including Germany, the United States, India, Ghana, Niger, Kenya, Cameroon, Trinidad, and the Netherlands, have gathered in Nigeria for a comprehensive discussion on global security.
The African Pragmatics Association and the Department of English, University of Ibadan orchestrated this significant event, unveiling a dynamic discourse on pragmatics and global security at a three-day conference held at the University of Ibadan in Oyo State.
The third African Pragmatics conference, themed ‘Pragmatics and Global Security,’ commenced on Monday at the Otunba Subomi Balogun Conference Centre and is set to conclude on Wednesday, February 21, 2024.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that the conference has seamlessly integrated both physical and virtual participation, fostering robust discussions and providing a platform for scholars to explore the intersection of pragmatics and global security.
During the opening ceremony on Monday, February 19, 2024, Professor Kayode Adebowale, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, expressed gratitude to APrA and the Department of English for orchestrating the event.
Proudly highlighting the University’s achievements, he announced the production of 722 doctoral graduates during the recent 75th-anniversary celebration, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to becoming a postgraduate-focused university.
Professor Adebowale extended a warm welcome to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Legon, who also serves as the President of APrA.
The unique historical bond between the two universities, sharing the same establishment year in 1948, was acknowledged.
The Vice Chancellor commended the Department of English, led by Professor Nelson Olabanji Fashina, for successfully hosting the international conference in collaboration with APrA.
Addressing the timely theme of ‘Pragmatics and Global Security,’ Professor Adebowale expressed hope that the conference’s discussions would contribute to addressing security challenges not only in Nigeria but also across Africa and the world.
He emphasized the importance of recognizing the role of language in national security, particularly within the delicate concept of pragmatics.
Professor Nelson Fashina, the Head of the Department of English, shared his delight at hosting the conference, underscoring its significance amidst the current global insecurity challenges.
Acknowledging the heritage of excellence inherited by the premier English Department in Nigeria, Professor Fashina highlighted the department’s commitment to contributing solutions to global security issues.
The chair of APrA and Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, expressed gratitude to the University of Ibadan for hosting the conference and commended participants for their commitment to transformative scholarship.
Reflecting on APrA’s previous conferences in Ghana and Kenya, Professor Amfo highlighted the continuity of thought-provoking discussions and their positive impact on the African continent.
Emphasizing the pivotal role of pragmatics in various aspects of life, including security, Professor Amfo envisioned that the conference’s focus on ‘Pragmatics and Global Security’ would provide valuable insights.
She underscored the potential of pragmatics in improving communication, strengthening diplomacy, and fostering effective cooperation among nations, especially in the context of the digital age.
With over 200 abstract submissions, the conference promises a diverse and enriching program.
Beyond research activities, the conference serves as a valuable platform for networking and socialization, fostering interactions among students, researchers, and professionals.
Professor Amfo concluded by thanking her colleague Vice Chancellor for his generosity and encouraged participants to leverage the conference for intellectual exchange, network expansion, and lasting partnerships.
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