A grand Durbar in honour of Naa Professor Habib Chester Iddrisu’s Enskinment as Dagbon Malizali Naa
The School of Performing Arts at the University of Ghana, Legon, hosted a grand durbar to honour Naa Professor Habib Chester Iddrisu on his enskinment as Dagbon Malizali Naa. Naa Professor Habib Chester Iddrisu is a distinguished Ghanaian academic currently lecturing at the University of Oregon, USA. The occasion celebrated not only his recent enskinment as Dagbon Malizali Naa by the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Mahama Abubakari II, but also his notable contributions to the field of performing arts.
The durbar was organized by the School of Performing Arts, which encompasses three key departments: The Dance Department, the Theatre Arts Department, and the Music Department. All three departments, along with Abibigromma SPA Legon group and the Ghana Dance Ensemble from the Institute of African Studies, played vital roles in making the event a resounding success.
Prominent speakers at the event included Dr. Terry Bright K. Ofosu, Head of Dance Studies; Esther Ofei from Abibigromma SPA; and Dr. Benagr-Samuel from Theatre Arts, all of whom took turns to laud Professor Iddrisu’s extraordinary contributions to the University and the broader cultural landscape.
Dr. Terry highlighted the indelible mark Professor Iddrisu left on the Department of Dance, crediting him with introducing the Alange Dance and the Jera Dance during his time at the university. His pioneering spirit and dedication to promoting African cultural heritage have inspired countless students and artists.
Esther Ofei, a member of the Abibigromma SPA group expressed her gratitude on behalf of the group for Professor Iddrisu’s generous donation of musical instruments to them, further demonstrating his continued commitment to fostering the growth of the performing arts in Ghana.
In his address, Professor Iddrisu conveyed heartfelt appreciation for the honour bestowed upon him, emphasizing the critical importance of service to humanity and society. He urged attendees to uphold the values of servitude to their communities.
The highlight of the durbar was the presentation of a Citation of Honour, recognizing Professor Iddrisu’s outstanding achievements and unwavering commitment to African performing arts. This citation was presented to him by his former professors, staff, seniors, and colleagues, symbolizing the profound respect and admiration held for him within the academic and cultural community.
The durbar climaxed with the performance of various traditional dances which left theattendees in awe and in utmost satisfaction.
The celebration marked a powerful reminder of the role that Professor Iddrisu plays as a bridge between cultures, committed to promoting African arts on a global stage while remaining anchored in the traditions of his homeland.
Source: Zaaghana.com
