“Yoruba Is Not Just a Language, It Is a Way of Life” – UI VC Declares as Foreign Scholars Flock to Study Yoruba Culture

By Ademola Adekusibe

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, has declared that the Yoruba language is an entire way of life, rather than just a cultural heritage, as the institution witnesses a growing influx of foreign researchers and students eager to learn the tongue.

Speaking during a courtesy visit, the VC welcomed academics from institutions including University College Dublin, the Federal University of São Paulo, the University of the Western Cape, and SOAS University of London, who are currently hosted by the university’s premier Yoruba Flagship Centre.

Professor Adebowale stated that the Yoruba language reflects human relationships and serves as an important medium for socialisation and identity. He noted that the sheer variety of international backgrounds represented among the current cohort proves that indigenous African communication systems hold immense value on the world stage.

He encouraged the visiting scholars to continue learning the language and immerse themselves in Yoruba culture, reiterating the university’s commitment to promoting indigenous languages and cultural studies.

The Director of the Yoruba Language Centre, Dr Clement Odoje, explained that the visiting students are foreign researchers with a strong interest in learning Yoruba and understanding the culture of the Yoruba people. He also revealed that a proposal for collaboration with SOAS University of London has been designed to strengthen academic exchange and research opportunities.

Among the prominent visiting scholars are Dr Claire Ní Cheallaigh (Iyabo) of University College Dublin, Ms Priscilla Campos (Funmilayo) of the Federal University of São Paulo, and Mr Adams Rodgers John (Ayanyemi) of SOAS University of London.

The centre has also benefited from improved infrastructure, including the recent installation of a solar power system to support operations and create a conducive environment for international students.