The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), Kayode O. Adebowale, has described the Yoruba language as more than a cultural heritage, saying it represents a way of life that shapes identity, social interaction and human relationships.
Adebowale made the remarks while receiving foreign researchers and students hosted by the university’s Yoruba Flagship Centre during a courtesy visit to his office.
The Vice-Chancellor said the growing number of international scholars studying the Yoruba language underscores its expanding global relevance and acceptance.
According to him, the language serves as a vital medium for socialisation while preserving the values, traditions, and indigenous knowledge of the Yoruba people.
He stressed that the Yoruba language embodies deep cultural significance and remains essential for strengthening community bonds and transmitting the heritage of generations.
Adebowale encouraged the visiting researchers to continue learning the language and immerse themselves in Yoruba culture, assuring them of the university’s commitment to promoting indigenous languages and cultural scholarship.
He also expressed delight at the increasing interest shown by foreigners in studying Yoruba, noting that such efforts would contribute significantly to the preservation and internationalisation of the language.
The Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting the Yoruba Flagship Centre in carrying out its mandate of advancing Yoruba language studies and cultural exchange.
Earlier, the Director of the Yoruba Language Centre, Dr Clement Odoje, said the visiting participants were researchers from different countries with a keen interest in learning the Yoruba language and gaining a deeper understanding of Yoruba culture.
Odoje disclosed that the centre had developed a proposal for academic collaboration with SOAS University of London to strengthen research partnerships and academic exchange programmes, urging the university management to give the proposal due consideration.
He also thanked the Vice-Chancellor for his continued support for the centre, particularly the recent installation of a solar power system, which he said had improved operations and provided a more conducive learning environment for international students.
The delegation included Claire Ní Cheallaigh, also known as Iyabo, from University College Dublin; Priscilla Campos, also known as Funmilayo, affiliated with Federal University of São Paulo and University of the Western Cape; and Adams Rodgers John, also known as Ayanyemi, from SOAS University of London.
