FG Moves To Adopt Local languages In Early-Grade Classrooms

The Federal Government has emphasized the importance of adopting local languages in classroom instructions for pupils in early childhood classes.

The Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Said Ahmad, said efforts were being made in curriculum development to streamline and adapt content to suit national priorities.

Naijaonpoint reports that Professor Ahmad stated this on Thursday while addressing stakeholders during the official dissemination of Nigeria’s National Reading Framework (NRF).

She said the framework aimed to enhance reading proficiency among the children by aligning educational standards with the Sustainable Development Goals, in line with President Bola  Tinubu’s education policy.

“Accordingly, the NRF emphasizes using the language of the immediate environment for early-grade classroom instruction and community-based reading practices across the country. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that we provide quality education, particularly for children with diverse learning needs,” she said.

The Minister highlighted the importance of understanding the NRF and its implementation guidelines while urging all stakeholders to commit to its successful enactment.

“Concerted efforts are being made in curriculum development to streamline and adapt the content to national priorities, ensuring relevance and practicality. Equally important is teacher training, which focuses on equipping educators with the skills and passion needed to meet modern demands, especially in science and technical fields,” she stated.

Mrs. Ahmad further lauded the efforts of stakeholders in the education sector, including ministries, agencies, and international partners like USAID, UNICEF, and FCDO, “whose support is essential as we tackle challenges in curriculum development and teacher training.

“Our collective efforts aim to improve literacy across the nation and equip every learner with the tools they need to thrive.”