The House of Representatives has urged the federal ministry of Education to commence a pilot program in selected schools across various states to assess the feasibility and benefits of utilising local languages as a medium of instruction.
The directive is sequel to a motion entitled: “Promoting Local Languages as Medium of Instruction in Primary and Junior Secondary Schools in Nigeria” raised during plenary by Kalejaiye Paul, member representing Ajeromi/Ifelodun federal Constituency, Lagos State.
Paul noted that Nigeria boasts of an extraordinary linguistic diversity, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the nation, while the current education system primarily employs English as the medium of instruction which has rendered the local languages like Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba, ineffective and almost extinct.
He said teaching in the mother tongue often leads to stronger teacher-student connections, creating a conducive learning environment and positive classroom dynamics.
The House therefore adopted the motion without debate and mandated the committee on Basic Education and Services and legislative compliance to ensure compliance and report within four weeks for further legislative action.
Also at plenary, the House passed for second reading a Bill for an Act to repeal the ministry of Finance Incorporated Act (2004) and enact the ministry of Finance Incorporated.
The Bill was sponsored by Ademorin Kuye, member representing Somolu federal Constituency Lagos State.