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In our previous post, we mentioned why the Yoruba language is as important as any other language in the world ( Read the post here) and outlined why it is vital to teaching the younger generation about the core values of the language and culture of the Yorubas.
In this post, we bring to you one of the finest and most gallant Yoruba sons in the name of Mr Hakeem O. Adeniyan, who has taken it upon himself to ensure that the Yoruba language is at par with any other language in the world. We had an exclusive interview with him; you can read all about it below.
Can you tell us your name and where you are from?
I am Hakeem Oluwafemi Adeniyan from Ado-Ekiti in Ekiti State.
What prompted you to start promoting the Yoruba language through your courses? What future plans do you have for what you do? Do you need monetary assistance to help with this journey?
I observed that the use of Yoruba language in the pure state was in jeopardy. The Yoruba language was left at the pre-civilization stage. No deliberate actions were taken to develop and update the Yoruba vocabulary to match other foreign languages. This made it look like we could not teach and learn modern school subjects successfully in the Yoruba language.
This prompted me to rise up in the year 2020 to start teaching mathematics, one of the most dreaded school subjects, in the Yoruba language. I have been progressing on the job since then. Please note that this project was established primarily to show the world that the Yoruba language can be used for anything, including mathematics.
To take this endeavour to the next level, I need the modern gadgets used for online teaching, e.g. Ipad, a good camera, lighting etc.
What are the core values of the Yoruba people as you know it.
The core values of the Yoruba people are as follows:
•They are social people who do things together.
•They have respect for other people.
•They have a beautiful culture which is cherished across the world.
•They have a beautiful language.
Where do you think Yoruba people will be in 200 years? Is there a possibility for the language to go into extinction?
In 200 years, Yoruba people will have been advanced in knowledge and technology using their own language. The Yoruba language can never go into extinction with my efforts and the efforts of others.
What do you think about the Yoruba culture generally?
Yoruba culture is beautiful and generally accepted.
How many subjects do you teach in yoruba? What is your greatest motivation?
For now, I teach three subjects in the Yoruba language. They are mathematics, physics and economics.
Please share where people can find you on social media and emails.
You can find me on Facebook, YouTube, Telegram and LinkedIn or by searching for “Mathematics in Yoruba language by Hakeem Adeniyan”
