Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has called on Nigeria to adopt indigenous languages as the primary language of instruction in early education, drawing inspiration from countries such as South Korea, India, and China. Speaking at the Fafunwa Educational Foundation's annual lecture and symposium in Lagos, Otti emphasized the importance of using mother tongues in foundational education. He noted that research has shown that children learn better when taught in their indigenous languages.
The governor's remarks align with the focus of this year's event, which explores the relevance of using mother tongues in early education. Otti commended the Fafunwa Educational Foundation for keeping alive a research-supported observation made by Professor Fafunwa and others several decades ago. He stated that while it is essential to consider potential limitations, such as the availability of skilled instructors, Nigeria can learn from the success of countries that have implemented indigenous language-based education.
Otti highlighted that countries like South Korea, India, and China have achieved significant economic and technological advancements, partly due to their emphasis on indigenous language-based education. He expressed optimism that Nigeria can draw valuable insights from these examples and use them to guide policy decisions. The governor also acknowledged the importance of expert input in shaping education policies.
In his keynote address, Professor Francis Egbokhare of the University of Ibadan discussed the mismatch between the language of instruction and the mother tongue of students. Academics at the symposium also called on the federal government to reinstate the 2022 National Language Policy, which aims to promote the use of indigenous languages in education.
The Fafunwa Educational Foundation's annual lecture and symposium provides a platform for experts to discuss pressing issues in education. This year's event focused on the significance of using mother tongues in early education, with Otti's remarks sparking a crucial conversation about Nigeria's education system. The governor's advocacy for indigenous language-based education has sparked debate and discussion among education stakeholders.
Otti's suggestion that Nigeria can learn from countries like South Korea, India, and China has generated interest among education experts. These countries have successfully implemented indigenous language-based education, with apparent benefits for their economies and technological advancements. As Nigeria explores ways to improve its education system, Otti's proposal is likely to remain a topic of discussion.
The call to reinstate the 2022 National Language Policy has gained momentum, with academics and experts emphasizing the importance of promoting indigenous languages in education. As the debate continues, stakeholders will be watching to see how policymakers respond to the growing demand for indigenous language-based education in Nigeria.
Key points
- Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, urges Nigeria to adopt indigenous languages in early education, citing examples from South Korea, India, and China.
