18th July, 2013
by Inya Agha
The French government has decorated a Professor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Paul Modum, with the French national award of Palmes Academique (Order of Academic Palms), for his dedication to promoting French Language and culture.
The award, which is the first of its kind to a Nigerian Professor, was conferred on Prof. Modum by the Consul-General of France, Francois Sastourne at the Princess Alexandra Unity Hall and theatre, UNN.
“Generations of students studied under you, many occupy very important positions in life today, you contributed to their growth by exposing them to have contact with French and French Literature. It is important and we are impressed by this effort.
“You have also opened the doors of sophisticated world culture, which in other words could be called the francophone world, to hundreds of young people, who by this opportunity are now well informed. For this singular act, we say thank you Paul Modum,” he said.
Prof. Modum expressed happiness for being recognised by the French government, and noted that his decision to study French Language in 1962, was born out of his love for languages not because he had no alternatives. He recalled how he turned down an offer to study law at the University of Lagos but opted to study languages at the University of Ibadan.
He urged the French Government to revive the scholarship given to French students to study one year in France or other francophone countries, that enabled them gain exposure and have contact with French speaking people and their ways of thinking.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Prof. Bartho Okolo thanked the French Government for the conferment of the prestigious award on a faculty member of the University. He said that the award was a reflection of the value of excellence which the University of Nigeria was reputed for.
Palmes Academique award is an Order of Chivalry of France for academics, cultural and educational figures. It was originally a decoration founded by Emperor Napoléon to honour distinguished members of the University of Paris. It was changed into its current form as an order on 4 October 1955 by President René Coty.
Since then, French Government has used the award to honour individuals who had made significant contribution to the promotion of French Language and culture.