On March 29th, 2024, the International University of East Africa (IUEA) witnessed a historic moment as the IUEA Faculty of Music and Arts was inaugurated by none other than the global music sensation Davido. This momentous occasion drew luminaries from across the spectrum, including the esteemed presence of Ambassador Hassan Alwi, the Resident Director of IUEA, Vice Chancellor Prof. Emeka Akaezuwa, and Dean of Students, Madam Natasha, alongside our dedicated students and staff members, and members of the public. This brief yet significant launch far exceeded the high expectations set by the grand signing ceremony. Today, we reflect on the unforgettable launch of our newest faculty, guided by one of Africa’s most revered musical icons.
What is a faculty of Music and Arts?
The Faculty of Music and Arts at IUEA stands as a beacon of creativity, offering students—seasoned musicians and newcomers alike—an avenue to explore and cultivate their artistic talents. This includes both the theoretical and practical application of music principles. While it will only start with a few programmes in its infancy, our faculty is designed to evolve with our students’ aspirations, nurturing a new generation of cultural ambassadors and industry trailblazers.
Why is IUEA launching a faculty of Music and Arts?
The decision to launch a dedicated faculty of Music and Arts at IUEA stems from a convergence of compelling reasons:
- Enriching Lives: Beyond professional aspirations, music can enrich and uplift individuals, serving as a universal language of expression and connection.
- Growing Popularity of African Music: With the global resurgence of Afrobeats and the recognition of African talent on prestigious platforms like the Grammy Awards, our commitment to fostering indigenous creativity aligns seamlessly with the continent’s cultural renaissance.
- Meeting Industry Demand: As perceptions shift and the demand for skilled professionals in the music industry grows, IUEA stands poised to equip aspiring talents with the knowledge and credentials needed to thrive in a competitive landscape.
- Uplifting Local Industries: By leveraging our expertise and resources, we aim to elevate Uganda’s music industry onto the global stage, empowering local talents to make their mark on the world.
Why choose Davido to launch the faculty of Music and Arts?
In selecting Davido to inaugurate our faculty, we sought a figure whose artistry and generosity mirror the values we aspire to instil in our students. Davido’s meteoric rise in the music industry, coupled with his unwavering commitment to philanthropic endeavours, embodies the ethos of excellence and empathy that defines IUEA’s vision.
- A love and talent for music: Davido’s influence transcends mere musical genius; it embodies a profound commitment to both artistry and altruism. His love for music knows no bounds, pioneering the popularisation of new genres while utilising his platform to celebrate and amplify African culture on a global scale. Such excellence has earned him accolades from prestigious institutions across the music industry, including:
- The Grammy Awards
- Soul Train Awards
- BET Awards
- Ben TV Awards
- Dynamix All Youth Awards
- MTV Europe Music Awards
- MTV Africa Music Awards
- A dedication to philanthropy: beyond his musical prowess, Davido’s philanthropic endeavours shine brightly, reflecting his unwavering dedication to giving back to society in impactful ways, such as:
- Davido donated $300,000 through the David Adeleke Foundation, focusing on supporting the less privileged and aiming to make a significant impact on their lives
- Davido donated 300 million Naira to various Nigerian orphanages, emphasising the importance of collective efforts to address societal challenges
- Davido has also given scholarships to various individuals for their education, responding directly to appeals on social media
- During the build-up to his 29th birthday, Davido turned a fundraising drive into a philanthropic initiative by donating N250 million raised from friends and well-wishers to 292 orphanage homes across Nigeria.
- Davido built a house for a young boy named Utibe and his mother. Utibe had caught the singer’s attention by singing a cover of Davido’s hit song, ‘If’. The singer also pledged to sponsor Utibe’s education
- Davido donated N15 million to cover the surgery costs of a female worker at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, going public with this act of kindness only after the surgery was successful
- Davido donated all the proceeds from his ‘Dolce & Gabbana’ music video, featuring Summer Walker, to coronavirus research, motivated by his personal experiences and the global impact of the pandemic
- He donated to a Rwandan music school
What happened during the launch ceremony?
Despite unforeseen delays, the launch ceremony unfolded seamlessly, captivating attendees with a spectacle of music, culture, and celebration.
IUEA had the distinct privilege of extending a warm welcome to Davido upon his arrival at the airport, ensuring an unforgettable first impression. Davido received a gracious reception from the esteemed Mr. and Miss IUEA, and other distinguished members of our university community, setting the stage for an extraordinary evening.
Davido’s arrival reached new heights as he stepped onto our campus, greeted by a throng of enthusiastic fans eagerly awaiting his presence. Upon entering the IUEA reception area, he was warmly welcomed by the Resident Director, Vice Chancellor, and a host of distinguished guests, faculty, and students. In a moment of camaraderie, the Director, Vice Chancellor, and the President of the students’ guild seized the opportunity to capture a memorable photograph with the global icon against the backdrop of our illustrious IUEA trophy case.
IUEA’s grand auditorium was filled with fervent fans eager to partake in the celebration. The event served as a tribute to Davido’s enduring legacy, offering attendees the rare opportunity to engage directly with the acclaimed artist, with some fortunate fans securing coveted autographs. These interactions not only forged unforgettable memories for all in attendance but also underscored the profound reverence and admiration that Ugandans hold for Davido and his remarkable contributions to the music industry.
His visit not only crafted an unforgettable experience for every student and guest in attendance but also marked the official inauguration of the Faculty of Music and Arts at the IUEA campus. The highlight of the event was a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, graciously performed by the legendary Davido, symbolising the commencement of our esteemed music and arts programs. As the ribbon fell, the audience erupted in thunderous applause, heralding the dawn of a new era in artistic excellence at IUEA.
What makes IUEA the ideal institution at which to study Music and Arts?
At IUEA, students embarking on a journey in Music and Arts benefit from:
- Industry Connections: Our network within the music industry ensures access to top-notch instructors and invaluable opportunities for professional growth.
- Cutting-Edge Facilities: Equipped with state-of-the-art resources, our faculty provides students with the tools they need to excel in their craft.
- Prestigious Platforms: From grand events to collaborative projects, IUEA offers a platform for students to showcase their talents on local and international stages.
- Culture of innovation: With a steadfast commitment to innovation and support, IUEA fosters an environment where creativity flourishes, nurturing the next generation of artistic visionaries.
- Proven Pedigree: Despite being a newcomer in the realm of music education, IUEA’s track record of nurturing talents like Nina Roze underscores our dedication to fostering stars in the making.
The launch of the IUEA Faculty of Music and Arts marks not only a milestone in our institution’s journey but also a testament to our unwavering dedication to excellence, innovation, and the promotion of arts and culture. As we embark on this transformative endeavour, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders in Africa and beyond, guided by the timeless rhythms of creativity and compassion.
