Preserving Yoruba Cultural Heritage: Professor advocates for research foundation

September 7, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

Professor Olukoya Ogen of Osun State University has made a passionate call for the establishment of a Yoruba Research Foundation to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

In an interview with Journalists during the University inaugural lecture, Professor Ogen emphasized the importance of documenting and preserving Yoruba history, language, and cultural practices, which he believes are facing threats from globalization, urbanization, and modernization.

“The Yoruba culture is a treasure trove of knowledge, wisdom, and creativity, but it is facing extinction due to the forces of modernization and globalization,” Professor Ogen said.

“We need a dedicated research foundation to preserve and promote our cultural heritage for future generations.”

Professor Ogen proposed that the Yoruba Research Foundation would serve as a hub for scholars, researchers, and cultural enthusiasts to explore and celebrate Yoruba cultural heritage.

He called on government, private sector, and individuals to support this initiative and ensure the preservation of Yoruba culture.

“The foundation would provide a platform for cultural exchange and collaboration, and support research and scholarship on Yoruba culture and traditions,” Professor Ogen explained.

He emphasized that the initiative would promote Yoruba arts, music, and literature, and provide a sense of identity and pride among the Yoruba people.

The renowned historian and cultural enthusiast has also called on the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Afenifere, to broaden its mandate to include historical research and cultural regeneration.

He argued that Afenifere, as a leading organization in Yoruba cultural advocacy, is well-positioned to take the lead in this endeavor.

“Afenifere has been at the forefront of promoting Yoruba cultural values and interests, but it is time to expand its mandate to include historical research and cultural regeneration,” Professor Ogen said.

“This will enable the organization to make a more significant impact in preserving our cultural heritage and promoting our identity.”

Professor Ogen proposed that Afenifere establish a research institute or center dedicated to studying and documenting Yoruba history, culture, and traditions.

He also suggested that the organization engage in cultural regeneration projects, such as language revitalization, cultural festivals, and traditional arts promotion.