Yoruba Language Preservation Project launches Brain Trust to revitalise Yoruba among youths through innovation and cultural engagement
Yoruba Language Preservation Project The Yoruba Language Preservation Project, also known as Èdè Wa Ní – Ẹ Gbé L’árugẹ, has announced the inauguration of its “Brain Trust”, set to hold virtually on Saturday, October 11.
The Project Director, Mr Olushola Macaulay, disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday.
He said the gathering would unite distinguished cultural leaders, scholars, linguists, educators, and advocates dedicated to safeguarding and revitalising the Yoruba language, particularly among young people.
According to Macaulay, the Brain Trust will serve as the intellectual and strategic backbone of the cultural initiative, drawing together eminent personalities from Yoruba-speaking regions and the diaspora.
“The formation of the Brain Trust represents a critical milestone in our journey to preserve the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of the Yoruba people for future generations,” he said.
Macaulay added that the project seeks to reverse the declining use of Yoruba among youths by making language learning an engaging, immersive, and culturally relevant experience.
He explained that the initiative aims to nurture a new generation of fluent Yoruba speakers through creative and interactive formats inspired by reality shows.
Young participants from Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Kogi, Kwara, and Edo States will engage in activities that promote both language acquisition and cultural connection.
The project, powered by the Light-Up Africa Development Initiative (LADI), also includes prominent figures such as Dr Oluseyi Soremekun, Dr Paul Emokhare, Pastor Bola Jordan, Prof Sharon Omotosho, Mrs Damilola Oni, and Mr Taiwo Ibikunle among its members.
Other contributors include Mr Tunde Philips, Mr Idris Akintola, Prof Akin Akande, Dr Babatunde Tiamiyu, Dr Tiwalade Fapohunda, Mrs Funke Durodola, and Mr Damola Oladipo.
Speaking on the project’s cultural significance, the General Manager of UNILORIN 89.3 FM, Mr Idris Ajintola Ibrahim, said that language remains the primary vessel of culture, and its decline risks eroding knowledge systems and identity.
“This initiative represents a bold and necessary intervention at a critical time in our nation-building,” Ibrahim stated.
Macaulay concluded that the collective expertise of the Brain Trust would ensure the project’s authenticity, academic strength, and cultural sensitivity, adding that “traditional wisdom and modern innovation must work hand in hand to keep the Yoruba language alive.”
Business3 years ago
