Computer Designer Feted in Fine Style - Philip Emeagwali

An evening of dinner, music and conversations with Philip Emeagwali and the Head of State of Jamaica, Sir Howard Cooke.


The following is a related article on a similar reception:

The Sunday Gleaner, Kingston, Jamaica, April 1, 2001.


THE Nigerian community came out in full force to meet and mingle with super computer designer and fellow Nigerian, Dr. Philip Emeagwali and his wife Professor Dale Emeagwali. The two were recently invited to the Hilton Kingston Hotel, New Kingston, for a reception hosted by Nigerian High Commissioner, Florentina Ukonga.

In traditional garb of bright yellow, orange, green, pink, baby blue and other pastel hues the members of the Nigerian community and some Jamaicans added colour and flair to the ballroom.

Nigerian High Commissioner Ukonga and her daughter Adenix both looked regal.

When Dr. Emeagwali arrived with wife Dale at his side, excited guests went foward to meet them.

In introducing the guest honour the Nigerian High Commissioner said Dr. Emeagwali had survived on limited means. She said he had to stop from school at age 12 because his family could not afford it plus there was a civil war which prevented classes at the time.

However, Dr. Emeagwali's father challenged his son to work out 100 mathematical problems in one hour each day and that he made use of the public library. At 17 Dr. Emeagwali won a scholarship.

In his address, Dr. Emeagwali urged parents to ensure a good education, for their children, especially in the information age. And he emphasised that information technology would prove beneficial in the future.

Professor Dale Emeagwali too is decorated in her scientific field and had earned many accolades.

Among the guests were: Colombian Ambassador, Alfonso Munera and wife Lucia; Mexican Ambassador Jose Luis Vallarta; Chilean Ambassador, Fernando Pardo; Cuban Ambassador, Jose Francico Piedra Rencurrell and wife Mercedes Herrerer; Chinese Ambassador, Guo Chongli; US Charge d' Affaires, Richard Smyth; Trinidadian High Commissioner, Dennis Francis; Ambassador Maxine Roberts; Monsignor Kenneth Mock Yen; Dr. Carolyn Cooper; Amina Blackwood-Meeks, Olutola Fakehinde and Lawrence Udeokoro and wife Ifeyinwa.

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