Chemistry in Yoruba: How Ọgbẹni Ahmad Akanni Azeez is Revolutionizing Science Education
When you think about learning chemistry, your mind might wander to complex equations, scientific jargon, and endless memorization. But for Ọgbẹni Ahmad Akanni Azeez—better known as Olùkọ́ Kemisiri—chemistry is more than a science subject. It’s a bridge between culture and knowledge, a tool to advance Yoruba heritage, and a way to make education more accessible and engaging.
Meet the Man Behind Kemisiri Yoruba
Olùkọ́ Kemisiri is not your average educator. Holding a First Class Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry Education from the University of Ilorin, a Master’s degree in Chemistry from Chulalongkorn University in Thailand, and currently pursuing a PhD in Chemistry in the USA, he is a true scholar. But his greatest achievement? Becoming the first person to teach Chemistry entirely in the Yoruba language.
He pioneered this innovative teaching method to help students understand scientific concepts more deeply by learning them in their mother tongue. His mission is clear: to foster understanding, preserve Yoruba culture, and contribute to the intellectual growth of Yorubaland.
Turning Science into Culture
Through his project Kemisiri Yoruba, Olùkọ́ Kemisiri makes Chemistry relatable. For many learners, Chemistry in English can feel abstract and intimidating. By teaching in Yoruba, he makes the concepts more tangible, showing real-life connections that students instantly understand. This unique approach has inspired other educators to begin teaching Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in Yoruba as well.
And his impact is undeniable—his Facebook page is on the verge of hitting 100,000 followers, and his videos have reached millions. He has already published the first-ever Yoruba Chemistry Dictionary, with a comprehensive Yoruba Chemistry textbook in its final stages of publication.
Changing Lives, One Lesson at a Time
The feedback from students and teachers has been overwhelmingly positive. Many now see science as something exciting, not intimidating. Recently, Olùkọ́ Kemisiri organized the Kemisiri Yoruba Competition, where students explained Chemistry concepts in Yoruba. The top winner walked away with ₦100,000, while the second- and third place winners earned ₦30,000 and ₦20,000, respectively—turning science into a celebrated achievement.
A Vision for the Future
Olùkọ́ Kemisiri doesn’t charge for his work—every lesson is free. For him, it’s about culture and knowledge, not profit. He releases new videos almost every day, with full lessons available on his YouTube channel, Chemistry in Yoruba.
His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple but powerful:
“Keep pushing. You won’t get the applause at first, but be persistent. You’ll soon break through. Trust the process.”
He also encourages students to pair his Yoruba lessons with further reading or research online for a “knowledge hack” that reinforces learning.
Pride in Yoruba Culture
For Olùkọ́ Kemisiri, Yoruba culture is the greatest export out of Africa. He believes it is the face of Nigeria, appealing and admirable in every way. His closing message is a call for unity:
“All Yoruba people should stay united, protect Yorubaland. The existence of states should not segregate us. We are one people, with one destiny.”
Connect with Kemisiri Yoruba.
📺 Watch full lessons here: Chemistry in Yoruba YouTube Channel
📌 Follow for daily updates on social media.
If you’re ready to see how science and culture can work hand in hand, Olùkọ́ Kemisiri’s work is a shining example. It’s not just Chemistry—it’s Chemistry for the culture, Chemistry for the people, and Chemistry for the future of Yorùbáland.
