The Western Delta University, Oghara Delta State has announced plans to establish the institute of Korean studies in the tertiary institution.
Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Augustine Ikelegbe disclosed this during the conferment of Honorary Doctorate degree on the South Korea Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Kim Young- Chae, which was held at the Embassy of Korea in Maitama Abuja.
Speaking on why the award was conferred on the diplomat, the Vice-Chancellor in his remarks said the honorary degree was the university’s deep appreciation for the Ambassador’s distinguished service and remarkable contributions to society.
On the establishment of Korean studies, Ikelegbe said it is the university’s commitment towards exploring potential collaborations in education, research, and cultural exchange with South Korea and promoting cultural understanding and awareness.
He said “We are a private university established over 15 years ago. We have awarded thousands of degrees at different levels- undergraduate, postgraduate. As a university, there are certain traditions. The doctoral degree is the highest degree that can be conferred by a university”.
“There are two types. There is the one you earn academically and there is another category which universities all over the world offer in recognition of distinguished contributions and service to society and outstanding impacts that certain individuals have made. These individuals have to merit the honour because like I said, it is the highest degree that universities all over the world can award”.
“Universities have different processes by which they identify and decide on who to give these awards. In our university, we start with the Honorary Degree Research Committee. This committee identifies persons who are worthy of being bestowed with our honorary degree. After that, we still have to go to the Senate of the university. After the senate approves, then it goes to the Governing Council. These processes have been fulfilled in respect of His Excellency, Ambassador Young”.
Present at the occasion were the visitor to the university, Chief James Onanefe Ibori; former Akwa-Ibom state governor, Obong Victor Attah, Pro-chancellor of the university, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, House of Representatives member representing Ethiope Federal Constituency, Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu and others.
