Opinion
By Val Obienyem
PROFESSOR Ellis Idemobi, former DVC at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, is set to deliver his inaugural lecture. All is set, as they file into the hall, the Prof. saw me where I was seated, shaking my hands vigorously, he told the VC, Prof Kate Emenugha that I was one of his many students. Indeed, I am here to listen to him, because he is one of those trusted to say something whenever he speaks.
Indeed, the professor taught me during my master’s and doctoral degrees at the UNIZIK Business School. Because the business school is serious, and I think it is now the best in the country, they ensure they get the best lecturers wherever they can. This was how Prof. Idemobi was enrolled into its roster of eminent lecturers. Included here are other teachers like Gen. Isaac Obiakor, Dr. Iken Odumodu, Prof. Pat Utomi, Prof. Okey Ikechukwu, Chief Frank Nweke, among many others.
As we wait for the lecture to begin, I thought about what it means to be a good lecturer. I remember the story of Emperor Aurangzeb.
Aurangzeb, considered one of the most controversial Emperors of India, found himself grappling with his legacy as his reign drew criticism. Reflecting on his past, he attributed many of his struggles to his teacher. When his teacher sought admission to his court during his reign, Aurangzeb refused, citing the inadequate education he had received. He rebuked his teacher for focusing on superficial knowledge, such as European monarchies, rather than essential topics like world affairs, governance, and historical lessons from the Mughal empire’s founders. Aurangzeb’s refusal stemmed from his belief that his teacher had failed to equip him with the necessary skills and knowledge required for effective rulership, leading him to question the validity of the teacher’s request.
If Professor Idemobi resembled the likes of Aurangzeb, none of his students would bother attending his inaugural speech. Yet, here we are, many of us, seated comfortably, eagerly anticipating our esteemed teacher’s customary wisdom.
His citation is currently being read, and soon the abundance of knowledge will flow from his reservoirs. No doubt, it will turn out to be another splendid display of fervent scholarship.
A.
-March 21, 2024 @ 17:05 GMT|
Tags: Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Prof Kate Emenugha Professor Ellis Idemobi Val Obienyem
