UI VC Hails Rising Global Interest in Yoruba Language, Culture
Oru Leonard
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode Adebowale, has described the Yoruba language as more than a cultural heritage, saying it is a way of life that embodies identity, social values and human relationships.
Adebowale stated this while receiving foreign researchers and students hosted by the university’s Yoruba Flagship Centre during a courtesy visit to his office.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, the growing number of foreign scholars studying the Yoruba language reflects its increasing global relevance and acceptance, noting that the language remains a vital tool for preserving traditions, promoting social interaction and transmitting indigenous knowledge.
He encouraged the visiting researchers to deepen their understanding of the language by immersing themselves in Yoruba culture, stressing that such efforts would contribute significantly to the preservation and internationalisation of the language.
Adebowale also reaffirmed the University of Ibadan’s commitment to supporting the Yoruba Flagship Centre in advancing indigenous language development and cultural scholarship.
Earlier, the Director of the Yoruba Language Centre, Dr. Clement Odoje, said the visiting scholars were researchers from different countries with a keen interest in learning the Yoruba language and understanding the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.
Odoje disclosed that the centre has developed a proposal for academic collaboration with SOAS University of London to strengthen research partnerships and academic exchange programmes, while seeking the Vice-Chancellor’s consideration for the initiative.
He also expressed appreciation to the university management for its continued support, particularly the recent installation of a solar power system at the centre, which he said has significantly improved operations and created a more conducive learning environment for international students.
The visiting scholars included Dr. Claire Ní Cheallaigh (Iyabo) of University College Dublin, Ms. Priscilla Campos (Funmilayo) of the Federal University of São Paulo and the University of the Western Cape, and Mr. Adams Rodgers John (Ayanyemi) of SOAS University of London.
(UI Media)
