The Oodua Youth Coalition has urged governors in the South West to make Yoruba language a compulsory subject in public schools to ensure its preservation and promotion.
The group emphasized that language and culture are key identifiers of a people and must be safeguarded for future generations.
This call was made in a communiqué issued at the end of the group’s National Executive Council meeting on Wednesday. The coalition noted with concern that Yoruba has become an elective subject in schools, warning that this could lead to the gradual erosion of the indigenous language.
In the communiqué, signed by National Vice President Olatunji Adejuwon and National Publicity Secretary Bamidele Ifedayo, the group urged the Houses of Assembly in the South West to enact laws making Yoruba a mandatory subject from primary to tertiary education levels.
According to the coalition, such a move would deepen the knowledge of Yoruba culture, traditions, and religion, strengthening the region’s cultural identity.
“The organization, in line with its mandate to promote the art and heritage of the Yoruba people, appeals to the South West Governors’ Forum, through its Chairman, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to ensure the compulsory teaching of Yoruba in primary and secondary schools,” the communiqué stated.
It further called on South West State Assemblies to use their legislative powers to enforce this policy across all schools in the region.
Beyond language preservation, the coalition also reiterated its commitment to fighting drug abuse and called on relevant agencies to support efforts in curbing the growing menace of hard drug consumption among the youth.
The group also announced plans to collaborate with various towns to celebrate major cultural festivals this year, aiming to amplify the cultural significance and benefits of these events.
Additionally, the communiqué approved the creation of an official Oodua Youth Coalition website, which will serve as an archive for the organization’s activities and historical records.
The meeting concluded by emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage and history, urging stakeholders at all levels to prioritize efforts that will ensure future generations inherit an authentic and unadulterated Yoruba history.
