By Samuel Ogude(Warri)
The Principal of Ekpan Secondary School in Uvwie Local Government Area, Delta State, Mrs. Dafe – Afabor T.O said, cultural day celebration is a veritable aspect of the psychomotor area of education as all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Mrs. Dafe-Afabor stated this at the maiden cultural day and send forth ceremonies organized by the school held on Wednesday in the school premises. According to her, cultural day celebration is a vehicle through which the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the country can be showcased which includes musical performances, dances, demonstration of traditional crafts, foods and costumes. She said:” Cultural day celebration is that rich and diverse cultural heritage of a country”.
The education expert said, cultural day celebration in most cases, an avenue for people of different backgrounds to come together and experience the various cultures that make up the community just as it promotes cross- cultural understanding and tolerance particularly in this turbulent time in the history of the country, Nigeria. She said:”Cultural day celebration often provides a platform for people from different backgrounds to come together and experience the various cultures that make up the community”.
The Principal who used the occasion to send forth Rev.Ukpe P., Vice Principal administration who retired after 35 years of meritorious service, Edjedegba S. and Akpomiemie M. as they have officially transferred to Abe 1 Secondary School and Sedco Basic Secondary as Vice Principals respectively. She also used the occasion to welcome to Ekpan Secondary School, the newly posted Vice Principals, Mrs. Agboifoh A.( Vice Principal Administration); Mrs. Otorie F.(Vice Principal Academics) and Mrs. Oriakhi Egbe J.( Vice Principal Students, Affairs).
Mrs. Dafe-Afabor used the same occasion to thank the outgoing teachers for service years they put in the school and the different spirited individuals who partnered with the school morally and financially as they have helped different students grouped in line with colour and ethnic groups. They include: Urhobo(Hon.Gbegbaje S.; Hausa(Odobaire F, Akpofure S.,Tom A. K,Adjenughure E.,Ifaka E.,Mercy D, Djoma M); Igbo(Ogbolor V. and all tribe teachers); Ijaw(All tribe teachers); Yoruba(Engr.& Mrs Omolaja, Engr. Seyi Adepegba); Itsekiri(Mrs Akanighan Roli); Edo( Chief & Mrs Idiahi as well as teachers and staff).
The programme which showcased different cultural dances and African dishes which are: Urhobo,Hausa,Igbo, Ijaw,Yoruba, Itsekiri, and Edo climaxed into the presentation of prizes to winners who are: Pink (Yoruba) 1st position with 71.75 points, White(Ijaw),2nd position with 71.25 points, while Purple(Edo) 3rd position with 69 points.
Present at the occasion include: the Chief Inspector of Education(CIE), Uvwie Local Government Area, Chief Mrs. Asini V.,former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Delta State, Chief Barr. Victor Otomewo , serving and retired Principals, among others.