By Mark Longyen
The Bulgarian Government has partnered the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, toward enhancing cultural ties with Nigeria through the teaching of Bulgaria’s folklore dances in the institution.
The Bulgarian Embassy in a statement in Abuja on Saturday, said over the past two years, a solid relationship had been built by Bulgaria and OAU to that effect.
It explained that the efforts resulted in the Bulgarian Government’s provision of financial grant for classes and the teaching of Bulgarian folklore dances at the University.
“This is a project that Bulgaria and the university have been working on for several months.
“Its initial framework was set up by the successful celebration of Bulgarian Day in May 2024 in Ile-Ife.
“During the few weeks of teaching, more than 25 students mostly from OAU’s Faculty of Arts’ Departments of Dramatic Arts and Music were trained in Bulgarian folklore dances,” the statement said.
The embassy described the folklore dances as a specific dancing technique that is characteristic of Bulgaria and close to some Nigerian traditions and customs.
It said the grant, which was channeled through the embassy, was provided in the context of renewed enhanced bilateral cooperation between Bulgaria and Nigeria.
“It is aimed at developing cultural ties between the two countries with the most visible prospects in the creative industries development,” the statement added.
