By Femi-Adenyi Joshua

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter Olapegba, has called for the adoption of a multi-lingual approach to teaching and learning across educational institutions.

Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, during a courtesy visit made by Dr. Stephen Onyekwelu, UNESCO’s National Program Officer, Professor Olapegba emphasized that teaching students in their indigenous languages can significantly improve comprehension and performance.

He expressed concern that Nigeria’s increasing preference for English, both at home and in schools, is contributing to the decline of indigenous languages and a loss of cultural identity.

Professor Olapegba argued that nations leading in science and technology, such as China, France, and Japan, maintain their native languages in education, underscoring the importance of language preservation.

The UNESCO officer, Dr. Stephen Onyekwelu, visited the University of Ibadan to mark the 2024 International Literacy Day, themed “Promoting Multi-Lingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace.”

Dr. Stephen highlighted UNESCO’s global push for mother tongue instruction, especially at lower educational levels, and noted Nigeria’s recent win of the Literacy Award during the global celebration hosted by Cameroon.

Credit – Directorate of Public Communication UI