The National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA) has initiated efforts to implement mathematics instruction in Yoruba.
As part of this initiative, the institute has launched a groundbreaking two-day training program focused on teaching mathematics through the Yoruba language and enhancing early-grade math education. This marks a significant step toward transforming math education in the country.
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The acting Director General of NIEPA, Dr David Shofoyeke, said the training, in partnership with Yoruba Mathematics Class on YouTube, marked NIEPA’s first public training on utilising Yoruba language to teach mathematics to early-grade students.
He said: “Early grade reading (EGR) and early grade mathematics (EGMA) have been in operation in the northern part of Nigeria, where Hausa is being used in schools. So, why can’t we embrace and sustain what we have in our own part of the world?
“Also, implementation of teaching mathematics in early grade mathematics, developing and lesson planning of mathematics’ topical contents in Yoruba, the importance of indigenous language in education, the role of language in teaching, understanding leadership instruction, and supporting teachers in early grade mathematics were discussed,” he said.
One of the experts who spoke during the training and incorporated mathematics drama into his teaching approach, Kehinde Adenegan said: “It’s high time we leveraged our indigenous resources to enhance classroom instructions and make teaching-learning effective, with language choice being a crucial factor.”
The statement added that “The workshop is designed to promote cultural relevance and sensitivity in mathematics education, enhance students’ understanding and appreciation of mathematical concepts within their cultural context, support the development of bilingual education programmes that integrate Yoruba language and culture, and empower educators to create inclusive and culturally responsive learning environments.
NIEPA’s Media Officer, Bodunde Tenabe, said in a statement that the training brought together renowned experts including Dr Kehinde Adenegan, Dr Sulaymon Mohammad Raji, Dr Tolu Omiyale, and Folajogun Akinkuowo, who delivered insightful sessions on various topics, which included a translation overview of the primary 1-6 mathematics curriculum in Yoruba.