Scholars from the Yale University School of Art, yesterday, concluded their visit to three Africa countries in an effort to deepen collaborations for the promotion of African literature and culture.

The visitation to the varsity’s alumni in Nigeria, Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire was led by Professor of African Literature at the English Department of the school, Prof. Cajetan Iheka, and other members of staff of the university.

Speaking at the end of a facility tour at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Iheka stressed the need for strategic partnership and collaboration between the university and the African countries.

“This is to let people know about the work we are doing on Africa in our university. We are here to meet alumni to see the excellent work they are doing, including this beautiful centre that we just visited,” he said.

The Imo-born Professor expressed delight about the creative excellence in Yoruba culture while commending the centre for holding strong significance for art for the entire country.

He said, “there is a cultural dimension to the trip. This is really fascinating. I see the vibrancy of Yoruba culture despite colonialism and slavery that the people have been through, the resilience and also the amazing resources and creative excellence that have been put here.”

In her remarks, the current Dean of Yale School of Art, Kymberly Pinder, said the engagement with the alumni and members of the university were to strengthen connections and deepen knowledge on African literature.

Pinder, who is a scholar of Africa-America art, pointed out that there is a synergetic relationship between Africa-America art, which is helping to preserve history and is inspirational for the future.

“I really love the architecture and how it is part of the content and its thoughtfulness, giving the impression of an outstanding museum,” she added.

Associate Director of International Development at Yale University, Rebecca Cramer, said the university has an important role to play in preserving human cultures.

“Because we are living in a globalized world, we can bring people together and see the similarity in culture and where they come from. So the university has that important role in convening such conversation to deeply look at this issue,” she said.