COOU Signs MoU with Anambra State Ministry of Culture and Tourism to Boost Creative Industry

Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) has taken a major step toward strengthening the creative and entertainment sector following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Anambra State Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The historic partnership was formalized on Tuesday, 10th Febuary, 2026, at the university, marking the beginning of a strategic collaboration aimed at discovering and nurturing young talents in the state.

Speaking during the event, the Honorable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Donatus Onyeji, explained the vision behind the initiative. He noted that in the past, Anambra State used to be relatively quiet during festive seasons, but Governor Chukwuma Soludo resolved to change the narrative. According to him, the state government launched the “Onwa December” entertainment programme last year, which brought vibrancy and excitement to the state. He highlighted that top entertainers, including music star Flavour and other actors and musicians, performed during the event, making it a huge success. He added that the collaboration with COOU is designed to identify and develop young actors, actresses, and musicians, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents to the world.

In their separate remarks, the Heads of Departments present expressed deep appreciation for the initiative. The Head of Department of Music, Rev. Fr. Dr Jude Orakwe, thanked the Commissioner and his team for finding COOU worthy of such an impactful partnership. He assured that the department would maximize the opportunity by grooming talented students to meet global standards. Similarly, the Head of Department of Theatre Arts, Dr. Anthony Nnalue, described the collaboration as a dream come true for students, noting that it would provide them with the long-awaited platform to project their creative abilities beyond the classroom. He also commended the Vice-Chancellor for facilitating the partnership, which he said would enhance the visibility of COOU students in the entertainment industry.

The Head of Department of English, Dr. Ikechukwu Asika, also expressed gratitude to the Commissioner, emphasizing that the department has always been actively involved in entertainment and creative expression. He remarked humorously that prior to this initiative, their performances were like “egwu azu uno” (local backyard performances), but with the MoU, students would now have the opportunity to take their talents to a broader audience and professional stage.

In her response, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, FNIPR, thanked Governor Chukwuma Soludo for establishing a vibrant entertainment industry in Anambra State. She recalled how lively and exciting the Onwa December programme was, noting that she personally attended and enjoyed the performances. The Vice-Chancellor reiterated her passion for the arts, revealing that she recently acted alongside students of the English Department during her birthday celebration. She expressed appreciation to the Honorable Commissioner for selecting COOU as a strategic partner and assured that the university would justify the confidence reposed in it. Prof. Omenugha pledged that COOU would not disappoint, promising that the institution would produce outstanding talents who would make the state and nation proud.

The MoU is expected to open new opportunities for students in music, theatre arts, English, and other creative disciplines, aligning with the university’s commitment to practical learning, innovation, and societal impact.

©COOUNewS, 2026