WEST AFRICAN INSTITUTE OF TRANSLATORS & INTERPRETERS (WAITI) IN COLLABORATION WITH LASU-SDGs HOLDS ITS 3RD CONFERENCE AND WORKSHOP
The West African Institute of Translators and Interpreters (WAITI), in partnership with the Lagos State University Centre for the Realization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (LASU-SDGs), conducted the inaugural ceremony for its 3rd Conference and Workshop on Wednesday, September 20, 2023. The event took place at the New Tetfund Building, Faculty of Arts, Main Campus, Ojo, Lagos.
The conference attracted a significant audience and was held in honor of one of its founding figures, Prof. Ekundayo Simpson, who passed away in May 2023.
The theme of the conference was “Professional Translation and Interpreting Today.”
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi I. Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, the Dean of the Postgraduate School, Prof. Ibrahim Olateju, expressed gratitude to the Convener/Director, LASU-SDGs, Prof. Tayo Ajayi, for his valuable contributions to the institution. Prof. Olateju emphasized the importance of clear communication to avoid misinformation and officially declared the conference open on behalf of the Vice Chancellor.
Prof. Taiwo M. Salisu, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, stressed in his remarks that the field of translation and interpretation plays a crucial role in promoting peace, stability, security, and global development. He highlighted that translation goes beyond the mere translation of words and phrases, and translators must pay careful attention to connotations and figurative contexts when interpreting.
The Convener and Director, LASU-SDGs, Prof. Tayo Ajayi, described the West African Institute of Translators and Interpreters as a professional platform for practitioners, scholars, students, and professionals in related fields across the ECOWAS sub-region. He emphasized that interpretation and translation require a deep understanding of linguistic, cultural, social, and historical backgrounds and play a pivotal role in bridging language barriers for government, military, and trade alliances in our globalized world.
Prof. Union Edebiri, the President of WAITI, represented by Prof. Victor Ariole, acknowledged the importance of training translators and interpreters to ensure the availability of skilled experts in the field. He expressed hope for the continued growth of the organization and the development of specialized skills among its members.
The 3-day conference featured Prof. Tundonu Amosu, a former Deputy Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University and one of the founding figures of WAITI, as its Keynote Speaker. Prof. Amosu delivered insights on “Current Issues in the Training of Translators and Interpreters.” He emphasized the expanding market for translation, including the translation of adventure, romance, or leisure literature for publication in the ECOWAS region and beyond. Prof. Amosu encouraged future translators to stay informed about regional realities and suggested the establishment of local programs for translation and interpretation.
Furthermore, Prof. Amosu stressed the need for practical training, highlighting the importance of preparing translators and interpreters to deal with challenges such as vocabulary limitations, lack of attention, or unexpected health issues.
Dr. Adetola Oye, Acting Head of the Department of Foreign Languages, extended the vote of thanks at the conclusion of the event.
