Humanities Remain Epicentre of Critical Thinking, Aghalino Affirms as DOU Opens Int'l Conference ~ Truth Reporters

By Andy Emephia

The Vice Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University (DOU), Asaba, Professor Sam Aghalino, has described the humanities as the epicentre of critical thinking, stressing their enduring relevance in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Professor Aghalino made the remark while declaring open the maiden International Conference of the Department of English and Literary Studies at the university's Main Auditorium Complex on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.

Speaking on the conference theme, "Language and Literature in the Digital Era," the Vice Chancellor said he fully aligned with its focus and urged participants to critically examine contemporary issues surrounding language and literature while expanding the frontiers of discourse on cultural and artistic innovation in a rapidly evolving digital age.

He commended the Department of English and Literary Studies for initiating the conference, describing it as a bold and proactive effort to deepen scholarship and explore the vast potential of the humanities through international academic engagement.

Professor Aghalino reiterated that his vision as the university's second Vice Chancellor is to position Dennis Osadebay University as a globally recognised citadel of learning, research and innovation.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Acting Head of the Department of English and Literary Studies, Dr. Peter Emuejevoke Omoko, said the choice of the theme was informed by the urgent need to interrogate the versatility and relevance of the English language and literary studies in a technology-driven world.

According to him, the conference seeks to examine diverse perspectives on the English language and literary traditions, with emphasis on identity construction, cyber linguistics and computer-mediated communication.

Dr. Omoko explained that the maiden conference goes beyond the traditional scope of English language and literature to embrace emerging media of content creation, as well as narratives shaped by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other technological tools influencing the transmission, interpretation and authentication of language and literature.

The conference featured a keynote address by Professor Nduka Otiono, Director of the Institute of African Studies, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada. The lead paper, titled "The Age of Noise: Language, Literature and Popular Culture in the Digital World," was presented by Professor Ogaga Okuyade of the Department of English and Literary Studies, Niger Delta University, Amassoma, Bayelsa State.

The maiden International Conference of the Department of English and Literary Studies attracted prominent academics and administrators, including the Registrar of the university, Mrs. Florence Nweke; the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Professor Chimdi Maduagwu; the Vice Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Delta State Chapter, Professor Chukwuna Anyanwu; Professor Felix Ogoanah of the Department of English, University of Benin; and the Conference Chairman, Professor Tanure Ojaide of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, USA. Staff and students of the department were also in attendance.