IADS RESEARCH TEAM AT COLLOQUE SCIENTIFIQUE INTERNATIONAL IN PORTO-NOVO

Some of the researchers at the Institute of African and Diaspora Studies (IADS), University of Lagos embarked on a transformative journey to Porto-Novo on Friday, August 1, 2025 to attend a prestigious conference- Ile Ìwé ifá and the renowned Festival des Masques. The experience was truly an immersive exploration of the intersection between academia and indigenous cultural practices.

The conference provided a platform for scholars around the world to exchange ideas and engage in meaningful discussions on a wide range of topics, from cultural preservation to contemporary issues facing indigenous communities.

Through engaging with local artists, scholars, and performers, the researcher gained a deeper understanding of the significance of masquerade traditions in Porto-Novo and the broader context of African art and culture. The experience not only enriched their academic research but also sparked a newfound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of indigenous practices.