By Daniel Bassey
The University of Uyo recently came alive with color, rhythm, and intellectual vibrancy as it hosted “An Evening Show in Pan-Africanism,” a cultural and educational celebration organized by The Pan-African Dialogue Institute (TPADI) Youth Commission in collaboration with students from the Departments of Curriculum Studies and Religious & Cultural Studies.
The event was designed to inspire pride, unity, and Pan-African consciousness among young people, and also served as the official inauguration of the newest cohort of TPADI Youth Ambassadors—a growing network of young leaders committed to advancing continental values.
Education Rooted in African Identity
Speaking at the ceremony, the President of the Pan-African Dialogue Institute, Associate Professor. Effiong Joseph Udo, emphasized the importance of grounding education in African cultural identity. He noted that knowledge becomes meaningful and transformative only when it aligns with one’s heritage, values, and lived experiences.
According to Prof. Udo:
“True education must be tied to our cultural heritage. When our learning is rooted in Africa, it becomes powerful, relevant, and capable of shaping the continent’s future.”
He described the event as “an affirmation of our collective commitment to the values, voices, and visions of Pan-Africanism; an educational and cultural initiative designed to inspire and empower young Africans by promoting Pan-African values in schools, colleges of education, and universities.”
Dr. Udo also reaffirmed TPADI’s dedication to repositioning the University of Uyo, and by extension Nigeria, as a global center for the study, practice, and propagation of Pan-African thought.
Announcements and Future Plans
In addition to inaugurating Youth Ambassadors, Dr. Udo unveiled major upcoming initiatives:
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A campus-wide exhibition in Pan-Africanism, set to further deepen cultural awareness across the university community.
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TPADI’s Biennial Pan-African Conference, scheduled to take place in the Republic of Benin in 2026.
He appealed to individuals, organizations, and institutions to support these transformative projects, reminding attendees that “Africa’s future is alive within each and every African.”
A Night of Culture, Art, and Connection
Reporter Daniel Bassey highlighted the evening’s captivating performances, which showcased a powerful celebration of African identity through:
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Music
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Drama and African theatre
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Spoken word poetry
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Traditional storytelling
Five TPADI Youth Ambassador Clubs—Choral Music, Dance and Drama, Poetry, Literary Recitations, and Proverbs/Storytelling—took turns presenting compelling works that honored Africa’s rich cultural tapestry.
From rhythmic dance performances to emotionally charged spoken word pieces, every moment reflected the beauty, depth, and diversity of African heritage.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Pan-African Leaders
“An Evening Show in Pan-Africanism” not only celebrated culture—it strengthened a growing movement of young Africans committed to reclaiming their identity, shaping their future, and promoting unity across the continent.
With the inauguration of new TPADI Youth Ambassadors, the University of Uyo continues to position itself as a breeding ground for cultural renaissance, intellectual leadership, and continental transformation.