Students at the University of Ghana have shared mixed reactions to a proposal suggesting that the works of highlife legend Daddy Lumba be introduced into the university’s curriculum.
The debate was sparked by media personality and entertainment pundit, Nana Frimpong Zeiga, who argued that universities should formally study the works of the late music icon, describing his contribution to Ghanaian music as unmatched.
In an interview with Univers Entertainment, some students supported the idea, noting that it could be particularly valuable for those pursuing music-related courses. Others, however, believe universities should prioritise pressing academic concerns rather than incorporating popular music into formal studies.
“For my field of studies. I don’t think it will be a feasible one. A feasible one, as such, but for those in the music department. I think it can be. They can sit down and look at it and know how they can go about that,” a male student shared.
“I don’t think it should be included in our curriculum because there are other pressing things that need to be attended to. To be a legend doesn’t mean your song should be included in our curriculum. Imagine me doing accounting, what will I be using your song for? How will it help? So basically me I don’t think it should be included,” another male student said.
“For me personally, I haven’t listened to Daddy Lumba’s songs before, but if his song will have some kind of positive impact on society and students as a whole, then I think it should be added to the curriculum”, a female student expressed.
As the debate continues, it remains unclear whether Daddy Lumba’s works will be added to the university curriculum or continue to be just a topic of discussion on blending culture with academics.
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Story by Juliet Etsyi | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Kelvin B. Annor-Yeboah
