The Department of Linguistics/Igbo, under the Faculty of Arts, was established during the 2006/2007 academic year at Anambra State University, with Prof. P. I. Orajiaka serving as the Vice Chancellor. The University’s name was later changed to Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) in 2014. The Department has remained committed to its founding philosophy of promoting the Igbo language and culture, focusing on improving students’ communication competence in speaking, reading, and writing Igbo.
Over the years, the Department has evolved to include the scientific study of languages through its Linguistics programme. This includes the analysis of languages, literature, and cultural issues, which is crucial for the growth and development of the Igbo language, especially in the face of modern technological challenges.
The Department offers a range of academic programmes at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These include:
– Undergraduate Programmes:
– Single Honours: BA in Linguistics/Igbo
– Combined Honours: Linguistics/Igbo
– Postgraduate Programmes:
– Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Linguistics/Igbo
– Master of Arts (MA) in Linguistics with specializations in areas such as Syntax, Morphology, Phonetics and Phonology, Semantics, Sociolinguistics, and Applied Linguistics
– MA in Igbo Language, Igbo Written Literature, Igbo Oral Literature, and Translation
– Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Linguistics, Igbo Language, Igbo Written Literature, and Igbo Oral Literature
The Department has consistently maintained high academic standards, as evidenced by its full accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in the 2015/2016 and 2020/2021 academic sessions.
Leadership and Faculty
The Department has been led by several distinguished Heads of Department (HODs) since its inception:
– 2007-2010: Mr. D. G. C. Onwuneme
– 2010-2012: Dr. U. J. Ogbalu
– 2012-2014: Dr. O. R. Ifeka
– 2014-2016: J. N. Okeke
– 2016-2019: A. N. C. Achebe
– 2019-2024: Dr. O. T. Nsolibe
– 2024-Present: Dr. C. N. Ikegwuonu
The Department’s faculty members have played a significant role in its growth, with contributions from both full-time and adjunct staff members.
Achievements
The Department has recorded several achievements, including:
– Organizing University-wide cultural fiestas and exhibitions in 2011 and 2014.
– Winning debate competitions at both zonal and regional levels in 2012 and 2014.
– Sustaining its postgraduate programmes, including the introduction of PhD programmes in 2019/2020.
Mission and Philosophy
The Department is committed to the holistic development of its students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to society. The philosophy behind the Department’s creation is rooted in the need to revitalize the Igbo language and culture, particularly in the face of challenges posed by Western culture and the multiplicity of Igbo dialects.
Admission Requirements
The Department offers various admission options, including:
– Undergraduate Admission: UTME, Direct Entry, and Part-Time Programmes with specific credit pass requirements in English and Igbo.
– Postgraduate Admission: Requirements vary by programme, with minimum degree classifications and O’Level credits for PGD, MA, and PhD programmes.
Future Targets
The Department aims to continue producing qualified graduates who can serve as editors, creative writers, researchers, language developers, media practitioners, translators, teachers, cultural officers, lexicographers, film producers, telecommunication officers, and public relations officers, among others.
Departmental Structure
The Department of Linguistics/Igbo is located within the Faculty of Arts at the Igbariam Campus of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University.
