Vice Chancellor (VC) of Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State and Communications scholar, Prof. Umaru Pate; immediate past President, Nigerian Academy of Letters, Prof. Duro Oni; Acting Head of Department of Theatre Arts, University of Ibadan (UI), Dr. Bashiru Lasisi and others, yesterday, urged the Minister of Culture, Arts and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, to focus on creative policies and mainstreaming of technology to make an impact and harness the potential in the sector.

They made the call during the events marking the beginning of the 60th anniversary of the Theatre Arts Department of the university, tagged: ”Celebrating UI Theatre Arts Department at 60.” The programme was held at Wole Soyinka Theatre Hall of the institution.

Pate, while lauding the creation of the Creative Ministry, urged the minister to work out a proper policy framework to position the sector. Oni, who is the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for the event, urged the minister to churn out policies that would open up the potential of the creative sector.

The don maintained that the minister must take steps to advance the cause of the ministry and have listening ears. He also charged the department to seek alternative sources of funding as well as reach and sign partnerships with organisations to improve the quality of the department’s activities.

On his part, Lasisi described the event as the gathering of the tribes to celebrate the department, adding that the department has played a significant role in the production of theatre arts giants in the country.

The UI VC, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Ezekiel Ayoola, called for support from all stakeholders to move the department and the university to greater heights. Otunba Deji Osunbogbun said the Wole Soyinka Theatre Arts Hall must be brought back to life.

Meanwhile, at the opening ceremony yesterday, there was a 60th anniversary conference. Today will be devoted to film shows, while theatre career clinics for students and so on (an exploration of the adaptable and limitless potentials of the Thespian profession in this dynamic digital and innovative age of global entertainment) has been scheduled for Friday.

Alumnae breakfast meeting/sundry conference will be held on Saturday and at 3:00 p.m., commendations/award ceremony will hold, before rounding off activities with an all-night party.