Nigerian government approves teaching of mother tongue in primary schools

The Nigerian Government has approved a National Language Policy for use in all primary schools across the country.

Penpushing reports that Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, made this known to State House correspondents at the end of the Federal Executive Council(FEC) meeting which was presided over by President Muhammad Buhari on Wednesday in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

“A memo on national policy was approved by the council. So, Nigeria now has a National Language Policy and the details will be given later by the ministry. One of the highlights is that the government has agreed now that henceforth, instruction in primary schools; the first six years of learning will be in the mother tongue”,he said

Penpushing further reports that the minister, explained that the decision is only in principle for now, stressing that  it will require a lot of work to implement it.

“Theoretically, this policy starts from today but the use of mother tongue is exclusive but we need time to develop the material, get the teachers and so on. Since the first six years of school should be in the mother tongue. Whereby the pupil is, the language of the host community is what will be used.

“Because we have 625 languages at the last count and the objective of this policy is to promote, and enhance the cultivation and use of all Nigerian languages,” he added.

The Minister disclosed that the council approved a consultancy services agreement between the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and a private company, for the upgrade of the portal on which the Board records candidates seeking admission into higher institutions of learning.

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