By John Ikani
A Nigerian and erudite scholar Emmanuel Ikechukwu Umeonyirioha has been appointed as the first-ever lecturer to teach Igbo language at the prestigious University of Oxford.
The young man took to his Twitter handle on Thursday to make the announcement.
Mr Umeonyirioha said, “It is official that I am the first official Igbo Language lecturer at the number one university in the world, the University of Oxford.
“Our induction happened today by Marion Sadoux, Head of Modern Language Programmes, University of Oxford Language Centre.
“This became possible in account of the James Currey Society. This is the first time the Igbo language will be taught at the university. History has been made.”
“I am so happy and grateful for this opportunity. I promise to make the Igbo language and culture known to the world.
“First class starts next week Thursday, 3-4 pm, on 12 Woodstock Road,” he added.
It is official that I am the first official Igbo Language lecturer at the number one university in the world, the University of Oxford. Our induction happened today by Marion Sadoux, Head of Modern Language Programmes, University of Oxford Language Centre. pic.twitter.com/OqFDdHrUkJ
— Dr. Emmanuel Ikechukwu Umeonyirioha (ikéọha) (@official_ikeoha) February 17, 2022
Oxford University is a premier institution in the United Kingdom. Established in 1096 and situated in Oxford, it is the oldest university in the English-speaking world.
It is also acclaimed to be one of the best universities in the world.
Oxford was named the world’s best university for a record sixth year in a row, according to rankings published by The Times Higher Education (THE) in 2021.
Igbo, on the other hand, is the principal native language of the Igbo people, an ethnic group from Eastern Nigeria. It is one of the major languages in Nigeria.
