In a recent circular, a public university has outlined what it considers permissible cultural performances that can be held at its campus.
The circular dictated, among others, that mixed-gender performances be barred; performers must be dressed modestly, in line with religious values; and that only women be allowed to view performances by female entertainers.
The circular also stipulated the kind of music allowed — it must not be “too noisy”, and it should incorporate elements of science and technology.
This circular has since received a lot of brickbats. Critics are crying foul at the idea of controlling arts and culture from a specific religious perspective.
Here, I wish to dwell on the issue of what “university” means to me and, secondly, what a cultural performance should entail and its role in nation building.
Finally, I will touch on our current practice on cultural performances and how it differs drastically from the circular issued by this university.
First and…