Grace Omachoko
In an exciting development, Western Delta University, located in Oghara, Delta State, has revealed its intention to establish the Institute of Korean Studies within its academic landscape.
This significant announcement came from the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Ikelegbe, who revealed the news on Thursday through an official statement made accessible to media personnel.
The establishment of the Institute of Korean Studies reflects the university’s commitment to diversifying its academic offerings and providing students with opportunities to explore and engage with Korean culture, language, and studies.
The move showcases Western Delta University’s dedication to fostering a globalized and enriched educational environment, aligning with the broader objectives of promoting cultural diversity and international understanding within the institution.
The statement read, “The establishment of Korean studies is the university’s commitment towards exploring potential collaborations in education, research, and cultural exchange with South Korea and promoting cultural understanding and awareness.
“We are a private university established over 15 years ago. We have awarded thousands of degrees at different levels- undergraduate, and 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.”
The don, 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, explained that universities have different processes by which they identify and decide on who to give this 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,” he noted.