By Aduwo Ayodele

A Professor of African Philosophy, Metaphysics, and Existentialism at the University of Ibadan, Professor Olatunji Alabi Oyeshile, on Thursday, May 2, 2024, advocated for the teaching of Philosophy to children in all African societies.

This, Professor Oyeshile argued, will ensure the promotion of a philosophical attitude ‘sine qua non‘ to the survival of human societies.

Professor Oyeshile who made the call while delivering the 550th  Inaugural Lecture of the University of Ibadan, on behalf of the Faculty of Arts, entitled “African Philosophy and the Unending Quest”, stated that a philosophical attitude enables one to be critical in addressing issues.

The inaugural lecturer also noted that arriving at rational judgments which will promote the being-in-the-world attitude of global citizens, as against prejudice and predilection in daily life, which can be attained through the knowledge of philosophy.

“Philosophical attitude will make possible an ethical attitude, which in turn makes it possible to internalize and apply such moral concepts as justice, fairness, equity, and other moral notions that are essential for human survival” Professor Oyeshile noted.

In his recommendation, Professor Oyeshile has advised institutions to encourage and embrace critical thinking.

“Philosophy education should be reinvigorated as the foundation of all disciplines in our higher institutions because it asks fundamental questions about existence” the Don said.