The National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA) has launched a training program aimed at teaching mathematics in the Yoruba language to early-grade students.

The 2-day workshop brought together experts including Dr. Kehinde Adenegan and Dr. Sulaymon Mohammad Raji, who provided an overview of the primary school math curriculum translated into Yoruba. This initiative, NIEPA’s first public training on math education in an indigenous language, is inspired by successful programs in northern Nigeria, where Hausa is used for early-grade math instruction.

Dr. David Shofoyeke, NIEPA’s Acting Director General, highlighted the importance of utilizing indigenous languages like Yoruba to enhance learning, improve math comprehension, and support cultural relevance in education. Workshop sessions covered lesson planning, the role of language in education, and creating bilingual classrooms, with Dr. Adenegan emphasizing the need to leverage local resources for effective teaching.

NIEPA’s initiative promotes cultural sensitivity and aims to transform math education by integrating Yoruba language and culture, supporting bilingual programs, and empowering teachers to foster inclusive learning environments across Nigeria.