The AUN Early Learning Center (ELC) held a variety of activities to commemorate this year's cultural day on Friday, October 7, 2022. The 'Level Up' event drew parents and guests from both within and outside the University Community.
The festivities included dance, music, and a variety of dishes. The students dressed up, too, in vibrant native attire representing Yoruba, Igbo, Tiv, Fulani, Efik, Edo, Hausa, Arabs, and Ghanaian cultures.
As the day's activities began, various class categories took the stage for their enthralling presentations. The 'Busy Bees,' a group of students aged 2-3, took the stage first, performing incredible dance steps to the rhythm of Igbo cultural music, earning them a standing ovation from the audience. The 'Eager Explorers' and 'Lively Learners' who delivered fluent renditions and dances in Hausa, Igbo, Fulani, and Yoruba languages wowed the audience as well. Their teachers did not miss out on the performances, storming the stage with a powerful presentation to emphasize and promote unity in diversity among Nigerian tribes.
The celebration concluded with a grand feast, in which parents presented and shared traditional cuisine dishes. The buffet included dishes such as Massa, Dambu, Nunu, Margi Special, Egusi soup, and Abacha. Ms. Vivian Ntam, Academic Coordinator of ELC, stated that it is all about teaching the pupils about culture as well as promoting respect and tolerance for one another while drawing out their creative abilities.
"It is critical that these students understand their cultural identity and background, as well as learn about cultural practices, from an early age." It gives them a sense of belonging and teaches them that even in diversity, there can be unity." According to Mrs. Etido U.S. Usoh, the Supervisor of ELS, The AUN Early Learning Center places a high value on academic excellence while also cultivating good moral virtues in its students from an early age. "Every year, the ELC celebrates Cultural Day to introduce its students to the rich customs, traditions, and diversity of both local and international cultures," Mrs. Usoh explained.
Reported by Tina Bitrus