By Odo Ogenyi, Uyo
Apex Ibibio cultural organization, Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio has commenced moves to build an Ibibio Language Research Centre for Mboho Unity Schools, in Uruan Local Council of Akwa Ibom
At a fund raising event organized by the Manchester Chapter of Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio recently in Manchester, International President of MMI, Akparawa James Edet, described the initiative as laudable, noting that language remained a key component of a people’s culture, enhancing diversity of thoughts and promoting innovation.
Edet said the establishment of an Ibibio Language Research Centre is apt and very significant to the promotion and preservation of the Ibibio language from extinction.
The president applauded the leadership and entire members of the Manchester Chapter of Mboho for initiating the project and acknowledged the commitment and patriotic disposition of the chapter to the course of Ibibio race and preservation of the language.
In a remark, the International Vice President 11, Akparawa Jemima Essien said the Centre would house a 200 capacity Hall, Classrooms, Offices, Library, Kitchen, Boardroom, among other facilities.
Chairman on the occasion, Princess Emem Essien, a Councillor in Manor Park Rushmoor Borough County in London hailed the Manchester Chapter of Mboho for the initiative,describing MMI as a worldwide socio-cultural organization assured of greater achievements ahead.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman, Manchester Chapter, Akparawa (Dr) Maurice Asuquo said that the Chapter in 2006 created a virtual environment for Ibibio children to learn how to read and write the language and now is set to build a Language Research Centre at the Unity School at an estimated cost of 35,000 Pounds.
The event also featured the induction of 22 new members from Manchester, London, Heathrow and Essex chapters as well as a demonstration by children in Ibibio language and the investiture of the 11th International President of the Mboho, Akparawa James Edet as Manchester United fan with a symbolic jersey number eleven.
Present at the event included former High Commissioner UK, Deputy High Commission Europe and London, Chairmen and members of London, Heathrow and Eussex chapters among other dignitaries.
