In this interview with ACJOAU, Osunleke Favour Ayomide, the Director of Culture for the Linguistics and African Languages Students’ Association, Obafemi Awolowo University (LALSA OAU) and coordinator of the 2025/2026 induction ceremony, reflected on his experience and responsibilities in leading the event.
Emphasising culture as the central theme of the induction, DOC stated that the event, which welcomed over three hundred students into the association, served as a powerful display of true tradition and cultural expression by the inductees.
How long have you been involved with the linguistics induction programme?
I have been engaged in induction programs since Part One and therefore bring years of sustained involvement.
What were your main responsibilities as the director of this induction?
My main responsibility as the director of this induction was to make sure they all learnt and mastered everything taught to them as regards the induction program.
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Walk me through what your rehearsal process was like.
The training started in November. A typical rehearsal session usually begins with a warm-up to prepare physically and mentally. This is followed by focused practice on specific sections or skills, where we work through material, refine techniques, and address any challenges. The session often includes repetition, feedback, and adjustments, and it usually ends with a full run-through or a brief reflection to review progress and set goals for the next rehearsal.
What changes did you see in the inductees from their first rehearsal till point of execution?
From the first rehearsal to the point of execution, I observed significant growth in the inductees’ confidence, coordination, and overall performance quality. Initially, many were hesitant and still familiarising themselves with the process, but over time, they became more assured, responsive to feedback, and cohesive as a group.
What does ‘true tradition’ mean to you in the context of this induction?
To me, true tradition in the context of induction means honouring the values, principles, and purpose behind the process, not just repeating rituals. It’s about passing down a sense of identity, discipline, and belonging while ensuring that new inductees feel supported and included. True tradition balances respect for the past with guidance for the present, helping inductees understand why the induction matters and how they can carry those values forward.
How did you select which dramas, songs, dances, or scripts best express the traditions you wanted to showcase?
I selected the drama, dances, and scripts by focusing on pieces that clearly reflected the core values and traditions we wanted to showcase. I considered how well each performance could communicate the history, meaning, and spirit of the induction while also being engaging and appropriate for the inductees. I also took into account the abilities of the participants, ensuring that the chosen pieces allowed them to express the tradition confidently and effectively.
How did you ensure the performances honour cultural authenticity while remaining engaging for a contemporary campus audience?
I ensured cultural authenticity by carefully researching the traditions being represented and consulting knowledgeable individuals to maintain accuracy and respect. At the same time, I made the performances engaging for a contemporary campus audience by presenting the material in a clear, relatable way, using creative staging, pacing, and storytelling while preserving the original meaning and values. This balance helped the performances feel both authentic and relevant.
How did you motivate students who struggled with stage confidence or performance anxiety?
I motivated students who struggled with stage confidence by creating a supportive and encouraging environment. I offered consistent reassurance, gave constructive feedback, and broke tasks into smaller, manageable steps so they could build confidence gradually. I also encouraged practice through repetition and reminded them that mistakes are part of the learning process. Over time, this helped them feel more comfortable and confident on stage.
@kekereakewi_backuppage 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Anticipate the Grandeur! A celebration of identity, culture, and tradition. “Induction & Cultural Exhibitions” is more than an event — it’s an experience! Brace yourself for a vibrant display of art, heritage, and legacy. Stay ready. Something cultural this way comes… ✨🔥 #oaulalsainduction
DOC rehearsing with the inductees
How will this experience contribute to the inductees’ growth as linguistics students and as performers?
This experience will contribute to the inductees’ growth as linguistics students by strengthening their appreciation for language as a cultural and expressive tool. Through scripts, dialogue, and performance, they gain a deeper understanding of how language conveys identity, tradition, and meaning.
Briefly narrate what the induction was like.
The induction was an engaging and transformative experience. It began with orientation and rehearsals, where inductees learned about the traditions, values, and expectations of the program. Throughout the process, they participated in drama, dance, and other performances that highlighted cultural and institutional traditions. By the final execution, the inductees had grown in confidence, teamwork, and understanding, culminating in a vibrant and memorable showcase that celebrated both their learning and the heritage of the institution.
What were your emotions like, watching inductees you trained performing?
Watching the inductees I trained perform was deeply fulfilling and emotional. I felt a strong sense of pride seeing how far they had come, from uncertainty during rehearsals to confidence on stage. It was rewarding to witness their growth, dedication, and teamwork come together in that moment, and it reinforced the value of the time and effort invested in the induction process.
How impressed were you with their performance?
I was extremely impressed with their performance. They demonstrated remarkable growth, confidence, and coordination, and it was clear that all their hard work and practice had paid off. Their ability to convey the traditions and values effectively, while engaging the audience, exceeded my expectations and made the performance truly memorable. So, if I am to rate how I was impressed on a scale of 1 to 100, it will be 100/100.