to become what is believed to be the Island's first colonial leader to give a lecture at the college.

The Governor, who was born in Africa, will speak about "Africa's Proud Contribution to the World'' at 7 p.m. on Monday in the College's North Hall lecture theatre.

Officials believe a speech on this subject by a white man will legitimise claims made by the black community about the effect Africa has had on the development of civilisation.

Mr. Masefield was born in Uganda and has served as High Commissioner in Lagos and as Ambassador to Benin, Chad and Tanzania.

The Governor will also be displaying some of his extensive collection of African art during the lecture, the culmination of Black History Month. Dr.

Gloria Frederick, a retired Bermuda College lecturer who is now a member of the Board of Governors, said yesterday: "When white people get involved in authenticating what black people have done, blacks tend to pay more attention and to believe it, rather than a black person spouting off. It legitimises that history.'' College vice president Dr. Donald Peters said: "It is pretty significant from the terms of political dynamics to have a sitting Governor contribute towards education at the college which relates to the history of the majority population of this country.

"From a historical context, that's something that we really appreciate from the Governor. From my childhood memories, I would not contemplate a Governor giving a speech on African history.

"He is a representative of colonialism telling the world that there is a significant history of black people and the contribution black people have made to the history of the world. It's such an exciting event that even the disbelievers should come and hear it.

"The absence of African history is something that's in the forefront of intellectual discussions and by the Governor coming to the forefront, it is something that will be remembered for a long time and go down as a higher education first.'' Director of the Centre of Education, Dr. Gina Tucker, urged students, but particularly teachers, to come out in large numbers for the event.

She said: "Teachers should be encouraging their students, but it is important that they, too, gain a broader perspective of the African experience or heritage.

"This transference of knowledge is important and teachers are the vehicle for doing that.'' CONFERENCE CON