The Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange (WSICE) programme, which took off on July 12, 2024, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, will go on till July 16.
This annual event, produced by Zmirage Multimedia Company and hosted by OpenDoorSeries, is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of thinkers and leaders through a variety of cultural and educational activities. The event, which honours the legacy of Africa’s Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, is particularly focused on youth development, aiming to lift Nigeria to greater heights of human and material development.
Since its inception in 2010, the WSICE has been a beacon of cultural exchange and education. Abeokuta, the hometown of Professor Soyinka, has always been the central location for this event. Soyinka’s home, the Autonomous Republic of Ijegba (A.R.I), and the Ijegba Forestage art hub serve as the primary venues. This year, the 15th edition of WSICE is curated to commemorate Soyinka’s 90th birthday, under the theme “E.N.I.O.G.U.N – Engaging National Interest on Good Governance, Understanding, and Nation-Building.”
On July 12, ninety finalists of the national essay competition arrived in Abeokuta. These students, whose essays have been selected from over 200 submissions, will stay in the city to participate in the various activities lined up for the event. The essays were judged by a panel of eminent writers, scholars and journalists.
The essay writing competition, which took place on July 13, is themed “The Many Lives of an Irrepressible Patriot, Humanist, & Rights Activist.” This theme encourages students to explore the dynamics of nation-building through the lens of Soyinka’s life and his contributions to public discourse. The competition, conducted in a reality-show-like setting, is open to the public and media. An esteemed jury will evaluate the essays, and winners will be announced on July 15.
The cultural immersion begins on July 14 with a sightseeing tour of Ogun State’s top tourist sites, including Olumo Rock and Itoku Market. This activity aims to foster unity among the 90 finalists by encouraging close interactions and sharing of experiences. Additionally, a drawing and painting session will be held at the WSICE Gallery at Omida Market. Under the mentorship of professional artists, the students will create artworks that will be displayed during the event.
July 15 will feature “Do Your Own Thing” (DYOT), a creative expression session at the Ijegba Forestage. This session allows the finalists and local students to explore their talents in music, dance, drama, poetry and other creative arts. Minimal guidance from adults ensures that the youths can freely express their creativity. This is followed by the Culture House Reception, where the students will celebrate their individual cultures through various activities.
The highlight of the day will be the reception for the finalists by Professor Soyinka at his residence. This mentoring session is a unique opportunity for the students to engage with Soyinka, ask questions and receive guidance. Soyinka will share insights from his own life and career, emphasising the importance of education, self-improvement, and moral integrity. He will also discuss the theme of the event, “E.N.I.O.G.U.N,” which encapsulates his lifelong commitment to nation-building and good governance.
After four days of enriching activities, the finalists will depart Abeokuta on July 16. They will leave with not only new knowledge and experiences but also a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration to contribute positively to their communities and country.
The theme for WSICE 2024 reflects the core principles that have guided Professor Soyinka’s life and career. It highlights his relentless fight for national interest and good governance, which has been central to his efforts in nation-building. The theme also extends to his global advocacy for justice, freedom, and human rights, making it a fitting tribute to his 90th birthday.
The final act of WSICE 2024 will be the presentation of the play “The Noble Warrior – ENI OGUN,” written by Aiyeko-ooto Onadele and produced by Adubiifa Network Company in collaboration with WSICE. This theatrical piece explores themes of bravery, struggle, and the human spirit, resonating deeply with Soyinka’s literary legacy.
The WSICE is an international cultural exchange programme designed to uphold the dignity of humanity through arts and culture. It is sponsored by Zmirage Multimedia Ltd, led by Dr. Teju Kareem, and co-produced with Professor Segun Ojewuyi. The project enjoys support from public and corporate organisations, including the Ogun State government.
The mission of WSICE is to reaffirm and elevate the dignity of man, fostering unity and integrity among youths. By engaging young people and orienting their thinking toward progress, WSICE aims to create a brighter future for Nigeria and the world. As Dr. Teju Kareem, the CEO of Zmirage Multimedia Company, states, “The youths are the key to bringing about change and prosperity in Nigeria and around the world.”
To celebrate Professor Wole Soyinka’s 90th birthday, WSICE 2024 continues its tradition of focusing on the interests of children and youth. This milestone edition not only honours Soyinka’s illustrious career but also aims to inspire the next generation to follow in his footsteps and contribute to nation-building and global human development.
For more information, visit www.wsice.org