The Bridge International Academies has said culture and the use of indigenous languages aid learning.
In commemoration of this year’s World Book Day, with the theme, ‘Indigenous Languages,’ the Bridge emphasised that reading would link learners with opportunities.
A statement by the school stated that World Book Day presented the opportunity to shine a light on the numerous ways books could enrich young people’s lives.
It read, “On World Book Day, we must acknowledge the potentials books have to inspire, connect with culture, and open the door to a world of knowledge, but more importantly, we must use this opportunity to drive the need for investment in literacy transformation.”
Academics Manager at Bridge International Academies, Nigeria, Ezinne Tochie-Asogwa, said books created links to culture and identity through stories.
“It is clear that reading connects us with endless knowledge, but what is perhaps less obvious is how books create links to culture and identity through stories. In Bridge Nigeria, Yoruba, the indigenous language of southwestern and central Nigeria, is taught weekly across the 46 schools in Lagos and Osun (states). These lessons are designed by subject-matter experts and delivered using well-designed learning resources to aid pupils’ assimilation and retention. Pupil-oriented activities such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing are also incorporated into the lessons.
“By ensuring pupils at Bridge Schools have a connection to Yoruba, they can communicate valuable cultural values and norms transmitted across successive generations,” Ezinne added.
She added that Bridge ensured rigorous efforts were put into developing and selecting books that achieve this goal.
