Monsignor Akam’s Memorial Lecture: He refined the character of men and women -Prof. Anthony Kanu

The memorial lecture of the founder of Tansian University, Umunya, Anambra State, Monsignor Professor Akam JohnBosco, who died on 5th February 2021 was held recently as a mark of honour at the Convocation Ground of the University. The lecture was delivered by a Professor of African Philosophy and Religion, Rev. Fr. Ikechukwu Anthony Kanu, OSA, describing the late academic and religious sage as a light in darkness and hope to those in despair:

“His life, works, speeches and empathetic actions lifted hearts in dark times, gave hope in despair, refined the characters of men and women, inspired brave feats among his contemporaries, gave courage to the weary and changed the course of history”.
Prof. Kanu, while further eulogising Akam, however, noted the lecture is an opportunity retell our stories and that of Monsignor Akam:

“By this event, we are not only having the opportunity to retell our stories of Monsignor and to keep the fascination of his personality, deeds and ideas alive, it is also a moment of reunion for all the friends and relations of Monsignor”.

Kanu categorized the symbolic and social immortality of Monsignor Akam, for the purpose of systematization and precision into educational, academic, social/philanthropic and ecclesiastic creative immortality while also proposing the need for more strategic ways of preserving the memory of Late Akam, which can be done in several ways, including; reinterpreting our experience of him or giving new meanings to our past experiences of him; idealizing the major and desirable aspects of Monsignor’s life and personality or lived experiences; creating a continuing bond by organizing activities that stimulate our remembrance of him; establishing symbols that come to serve as ‘sacred’ representations of him.

The Catholic Priest, however, stressed that if there is a place where this should begin, it is in Tansian University, where Late Akam has one of his greatest legacies. However, with this event, Kanu observes that it has begun beautifully well.
The event was attended by the Universit’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Eugene Nwadialor; the Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. C. C. Onochie, Members of the Senate, academic and non-academic staff, students and invited guests.