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Don lists role of varsities, technology in cultural preservation Abiodun Nejo, Ado Ekiti A professor of Art History at Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti, Olusola Ogunmola, has said that universities owe it a duty to ensure accurate recording and transmission of cultural history to future generations. Ogunmola, spoke at Ikere Ekiti on Tuesday while delivering the 8th inaugural lecture of BOUESTI, titled, ‘Ancestral heritage at the crossroads: Restoring and safeguarding Egungun culture and modernity, religion and global change”. The don also make case for preservation of culture through legal and institutional frameworks to strengthen national and community identity. The university teacher said that his research focussed on the possible mean’s of bringing back Yoruba’s cultural values and traditional ways of life nearly forgotten due to modernity and advancement of technology. He said, “Cultural preservation depends on the combined efforts of the academia policy makers and technology. “Academic plays a key role by researching and documenting cultural practices, teaching cultural knowledge in educational institutions, training specialists such as archivists and curators and partnering with communities to interpret and safeguard traditions. “Universities can function as custodians of intangible heritage by documenting performances, producing scholarly analysis and creating archives”. The don, who described Egungun tradition as one of the most meaningful pillars of Yoruba cultural identity and a powerful cultural emblem that represents the identity of the concerned culture, said that despite modern lifestyles, new religious movements and global cultural influences, “Egungun still holds deep value as a source of history, morality and spiritual connection. “The challenges facing the tradition are real, but they also present opportunities to rethink how cultural heritage can be protected without losing its authenticity,” the don said. Ogunmola, who said that restoring Egungun heritage was not just about saving a festival or mask, said that safeguarding it “requires cooperation among custodians, scholars, policymakers and the younger generation. “Communities must remain committed to teaching the meanings behind the rituals, maintaining the integrity of performances and documenting practices for future generations. “Modern tools such as digital archives, heritage education and preservation can strengthen preservation when used respectfully. Likewise, interreligious dialogue and cultural tolerance can reduce conflict and allow Egungun to exist peacefully alongside other belief systems”. The don said that restoring Egungun heritage was about “protecting a living connection to the ancestors, reinforcing community values and ensuring that cultural knowledge continues to guide future generations. “When tradition and modernity are balanced with wisdom, Egungun can survive, adapt and remain a powerful symbol of identity, continuity and cultural pride,” the professor said.
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