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Nigerian professor wins Karl Jaspers prize in Germany
July 2, 2013 by Agency Reporter 2 Comments



A Nigerian professor, Chibueze Udeani, has won the 2013 renowned German philosopher, Karl Jasper prize on philosophy in Oldenburg, Germany.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Karl Jasper Foundation was established 20 years ago by the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Oldenburg to give awards to outstanding academicians from different parts of the world.

Udeani was also recently inaugurated as the first black professor of Theology in the University of Wurzburg, Germany.

He was chosen based on his various research and publications on African culture and religion.

Speaking at the ceremony in Oldenburg, the founding father of the foundation, Prof Rudolf Lippe, said Udeani´s publications were in line with the theory of the late Jasper (1883 to 1969).

According to him, the theory of Jasper preaches mutual coexistence and dialogue among different cultures and people of the world.

Lippe criticised the theory of the late American philosopher, Samuel Huntington, who said the world of 21st century would be characterised with conflicts through diverse cultures and religions.

The 76-year-old professor of philosophy, however, appealed for mutual coexistence among different cultures as this would ensure peace in the world.

The Vice-Chancellor of Oldenburg University, Prof. Bernd Siebenhuner, expressed delight that the university was chosen for the foundation.

Siebenhuner said the university and the German government had built a centre in memory of the late philosopher, adding that it would be opened in September.

Udeani, who expressed delight on his nomination, described the award as a reward for hard work.