Former Secretary of the National University Commission (NUC), Emeritus Professor Peter Okebukola, has raised the alarm that Africa’s vibrant cultural heritage remains confined to local and regional spheres, despite its immense economic and social value.
The professor said Africa’s cultural goods—traditional arts, music, dance, literature, and fashion—are valuable assets struggling to reach global markets.
Okebukola, who spoke at the Africa Regional Digital Skills Training for Young Creative Artists, organised by the UNESCO Institute for African Culture and International Understanding (IACIU) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, disclosed that the limited exposure stifles cultural exchange, economic empowerment, and global recognition.
He, however, emphasised the urgent need for digital technology to bridge this cultural divide by connecting Africa’s rich heritage to worldwide audiences.
According to him, it is important to integrate digital skills into the creative sector, as the world is increasingly going digital.
Okebukola, who is the director of the institute, noted that digital technology will position Africa’s young creative minds to leverage the digital environment to promote the African rich cultural heritage.
The training, according to the former NUC scribe, was designed to equip the next generation of African artists with the skills needed to navigate and succeed in the digital environment.
Okebukola said: “Africa’s cultural renaissance hinges on our ability to harness digital technology. We must act now to unlock our cultural potential and share our stories with the world.
“As we know, Africa is a treasure trove of culture—from our traditional arts and crafts, vibrant music and dance, to our literature and fashion. These cultural goods are not only expressions of our identities but also valuable assets with the potential to shape economies, inspire social cohesion, and build global awareness of Africa’s unique stories.
“The challenge, however, lies in ensuring that these cultural treasures do not remain confined to local or regional spheres but are able to reach and thrive in global markets. This is where the power of ‘digital technology’ comes in.”
He also stressed that the institute’s objective is to build a generation of digitally-savvy artists who understand the immense value of their cultural goods and can translate that value into global relevance.
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