Prof. Clement Kolawole, Vice-Chancellor of Trinity University, Yaba, Lagos, has advised the Federal Government to formulate policies and deploy resources for advancement of literacy in indigenous languages.
Kolawole gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos.
He spoke in commemoration of the 2024 International Literacy Day with the theme: “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace”.
International Literacy Day is celebrated annually on Sept. 8 to promote literacy as a tool for empowering individuals and building more inclusive societies.
The vice-chancellor said that the measure would go a long way to achieve peace and understanding in the country and facilitate advancement.
“By so doing, we will be able to promote multilingual education, literacy for mutual understanding and peace in line with this year’s theme.
“Nigeria is blessed with many indigenous languages; yet, they are not being used in literacy promotion, especially among children.
“It is therefore most important for the Federal Government to encourage literacy in indigenous languages.
“If that is secured, it will go a long way to set the pace for their eventual literacy in English.
“It will also help our children to be functional in literacy that will empower them to navigate the challenges of contemporary world. (NAN)
