By Olubunmi Osoteku, Ibadan
The Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the University of Ibadan (UI), Professor Kayode Adebowale, has beautifully described elders and senior citizens as the living ancestors of professional bodies. These individuals carry the institutional memory that speaks volumes about their respective associations.
Professor Adebowale made this profound statement while receiving members of the Association of Nigerian Musicologists (ANIM) during their courtesy visit to his office.
According to the VC, the presence of elders within a professional body fosters cohesiveness and greatly enhances the body’s ability to create a profound impact. Their invaluable memories of the past help preserve historical perspectives and ensure the association’s sustained growth. Professor Adebowale commended the ANIM for its high level of organization and cohesiveness, as every member of the association was effectively represented.
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Addressing the theme of the 19th conference of the ANIM, “Music in a Digital Economy,” the Vice-Chancellor urged the association to approach the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into music with caution. While acknowledging the ease with which AI can enhance musical expression, he emphasized the importance of studying the digital world in detail and establishing boundaries to mitigate any inherent dangers associated with AI.
Professor Adebowale cautioned, “The rate at which Artificial Intelligence (AI) is advancing demands our careful attention. If we are not cautious, the negative consequences we may face could outweigh the benefits.”
In a previous address, the President of the Association of Nigerian Musicologists, Professor Christian Onyeji, expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for granting the association the opportunity to hold its 19th National Conference at UI. He highlighted that ANIM comprises musicologists who are lecturers, practitioners, and experts working in various institutions across the country.
Professor Onyeji also noted that as the association celebrates its 30th anniversary, the 19th conference would delve into the digital economy and explore its impact on music. The conference aims to analyze the extent to which this digital revolution has influenced music and assess the contributions of music to the economic processes within the digital realm from a Nigerian standpoint.
The ANIM President expressed confidence that the conference would make substantial contributions to further the understanding of the digital economy within the music industry.
