By Michael Oche
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has pledged his administration’s commitment to reviving theatre practice in the institution, describing the arts as central to cultural identity and student development.
Prof. Offiong made the pledge at the Council Chambers of the institution when the University of Calabar Theatre Arts Alumni Association (UCTAAA) paid him a courtesy visit.
He said his administration is committed to rekindling the vibrant theatre culture the university was once known for, noting that the “good old days” of terrific theatre performances will return under his tenure.
The Vice Chancellor stressed that theatre is not just entertainment but a vital tool for building confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills among students, adding that a thriving arts scene also enhances the university’s cultural profile and community engagement.
To this end, he disclosed that his administration is already engaging the Head of the Department of Theatre Arts to explore practical steps toward reviving theatre on campus.
The Vice Chancellor further noted that alumni associations remain critical to the growth of any university, stating that they have continued to play significant roles in institutional development both locally and globally.
He urged UCTAAA not to relent in its efforts at giving back to their alma mater, while commending the body for donating a generator to the Chinua Achebe Arts Theatre in the institution.
Prof. Offiong added that the Department of Theatre Arts has made a positive impact on generations of students and, for that reason, deserves to be celebrated and supported.
The Vice Chancellor also encouraged UCTAAA to align with and actively participate in the National Alumni Association of the institution, saying a unified alumni body would strengthen development efforts and amplify the voice of graduates.
Earlier, the Global President of UCTAAA, Mr. MacDonald Ogemdi Ekemezie congratulated Prof. Offiong on his emergence as the 12th substantive Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar.
Describing UCTAAA members as “children” who grew from the university years ago, the Global President said the institution had nurtured them and added value to their lives.
He added that the association had come to appreciate the sacrifices made by the institution during their professional development, saying they remain committed to giving back to support its growth.
Mr. Ekemezie noted that UCTAAA has produced distinguished professionals who are making impact globally, and assured that the association would continue to mentor students in the arts to sustain that legacy.
He further appealed to the Vice Chancellor to consider upgrading the Department of Theatre Arts to a full-fledged faculty, citing the department’s pivotal role in student development, cultural preservation, and the university’s national and international visibility.
The Global President also used the visit to formally invite the Vice Chancellor to UCTAAA’s upcoming reunion in Lagos, tagged “Eko 2026”.
