Dr Umeonyirioha appointed as first ever lecturer of Igbo language at Oxford University

NIGERIAN academic Emmanuel Ikechukwu Umeonyirioha has been inducted first Igbo language lecturer at the UK's University of Oxford as part of an ambitious programme to extend the institution's curriculum.

Under a plan to expand its curriculum beyond the traditional confines, the university is looking to start offering courses in global languages. Igbo has been selected as one of the new courses to be taught at the university and as part of the process, the recruitment of lecturers has begun in earnest.

Dr Umeonyirioha announced his appointment on his Twitter handle, noting that it was the first time that the Igbo language would be taught in the university. Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, he vowed to make the Igbo language and culture known to the world.

“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 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,” Dr Umeonyirioha said.

Next week, lectures will begin, with Dr taking his first class. He added that he will deliver his first lecture between 3pm and 4pm next Thursday.