Lagos State has officially approved Yoruba Language as a subject for evaluating pupils seeking admission into Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS1).
This new policy, set to be implemented in the Year 2025, will see primary six pupils tested in Yoruba as part of their placement test, which will also include Continuous Assessment Scores (CAS).
The announcement was made by Mr. Abayomi Abolaji, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Alausa, Lagos.
Abolaji emphasized that Yoruba Language is already part of the state’s education curriculum, and its inclusion in the placement test is a step towards strengthening the teaching and learning of the language.
“The study of Yoruba Language is embedded in our education curriculum,” Abolaji said.
“From 2025, primary six pupils who are transitioning to Government Public Junior Secondary Schools will be tested in Yoruba Language as part of the placement test.”
The decision to include Yoruba Language in the placement test was the result of a consensus reached by various stakeholders.
These included the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), the Conference of Private Schools Association in Lagos (COSPAIL), the Curriculum Services Department of the Ministry, the Lagos State Examinations Board, the Association of Christians International, Egbe Akomolede ati Asa Yoruba, and the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB).
The policy aligns with recommendations from UNESCO, which advocates for the use of a child’s indigenous language in schools up to primary three to enhance learning and cultural integration.
This approach aims to strengthen the teaching of indigenous languages and promote cultural appreciation among young learners.
The Permanent Secretary highlighted the significance of promoting the Yoruba Language in schools as a way to add value to the culture and overall way of life of the Yoruba people.
He also assured stakeholders of the state government’s commitment to addressing challenges related to the teaching and learning of Yoruba, ensuring that the language is taught effectively and learned with ease.
In addition to Yoruba, pupils will be tested on Mathematics and Language in the 2025 placement test.
Mathematics will cover Quantitative Reasoning and Primary Science, while Language will include English Studies, Yoruba Language, Verbal Reasoning, and General Paper.
This comprehensive testing approach aims to assess pupils’ overall academic abilities and readiness for junior secondary education.
The introduction of Yoruba Language in the placement tests has been met with positive reactions from various educational stakeholders and cultural advocates.
Many view this as a significant step towards preserving and promoting Nigeria’s rich linguistic heritage.
The Lagos State Government’s decision reflects a growing recognition of the importance of indigenous languages in the education system.
By integrating Yoruba Language into placement tests, the state aims to ensure that future generations of students not only excel academically but also have a deep appreciation for their cultural roots.
