MNN Hub
The National Institute for Nigerian Languages (NINLAN), Aba, has announced new initiatives, including the development of specialised digital tools and the creation of Acculturation and Language Acquisition Centres across the country, as part of its strategy to strengthen the teaching, learning, and preservation of indigenous languages.
Speaking at the first matriculation ceremony for the Institute’s pioneer degree students in affiliation with Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka, the Executive Director, Professor Ogbonna Onuoha, said the institution is taking steps to integrate technology into indigenous language studies.
According to him, NINLAN is working with a Chinese technical firm to design customised computer keyboards with indigenous language characters to aid reading, writing, and digital content creation. The Institute is also developing text-to-speech and speech-to-text applications powered by natural language processing algorithms.
“These tools will support modern teaching, learning, and research in Nigerian languages,” Onuoha said. “In addition, our Nigerian Languages Online Programme, when launched, will deliver certificate and diploma programmes virtually to Nigerians at home and abroad, as well as foreigners interested in acquiring proficiency in our languages for business, career, diplomatic, or cultural purposes.”
The ED further disclosed that NINLAN has established Acculturation and Language Acquisition Centres (ALACs) in parts of the six geopolitical zones. The centres, he explained, will provide natural environments where learners can immerse themselves in indigenous languages under structured guidance.
“From the next academic year, students in our demonstration schools will be examined in Igbo, Hausa, and Yoruba proficiency as part of the redesigned acculturation programme aimed at promoting national cohesion,” he added.
Onuoha noted that NINLAN has restructured its faculty formations to reflect Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and is concluding agreements with stakeholders for the development of Nupe, Obolo, Tiv, Idoma, and Igede languages.
Addressing infrastructural challenges, he revealed that solar-powered streetlights are being installed on the Institute’s 209.5-hectare campus to improve security and visibility at night.
In her remarks, the Acting Vice Chancellor of NAU, Professor Carol Arinze-Umobi, represented by Professor George Onwudiwe, said the affiliation ensures that NINLAN’s degree programmes meet NAU’s academic standards.
“Students will receive NAU certificates upon completion, but they must adhere to NAU’s regulations, including 75 percent attendance before examinations,” she said.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), Professor Paulinus Chijioke Okwelle, represented by the Provost of the Federal College of Education, Ofeme, said the matriculation signified the integration of NINLAN into Nigeria’s teacher education system.
“By training teachers of Nigerian languages, we are producing not only classroom educators but also cultural ambassadors and bridge-builders,” he stated.
The matriculation featured students admitted into Ibibio and Annang Acculturation programmes, alongside certificate, NCE, diploma, and postgraduate diploma students.
Source: Guardian Nigeria | Read the Full Story…
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings