Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr Nureni Adeniran, has called on stakeholders to push for policies that recognise the value of multilingual education in the country.

Adeniran also enjoined government, educators, and policy makers to find ways of integrating the mother tongue with national and international languages.

This, he said, not only improves literacy outcomes, it fosters social inclusion, strengthens cultural identities and promotes lifelong learning.

He spoke at a one-day symposium to commemorate the International Literacy Day organised by the Department of Adult Education, University of Ibadan (UI), in collaboration with the Abuja office of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and National Mass Education Commission (NMEC).

“It is important to remember that literacy is not confined to the walls of a classroom or the early years of life. Literacy is an evolving process that continues throughout one’s lifetime, particularly in the rapidly changing world.

By investing in adult education and lifelong learning, Adeniran said people, especially those in multilingual and marginalised communities, would have the needed tools to thrive.

According to him, promoting literacy in multilingual contexts can bridge divides, foster understanding, and reduce the inequalities that often fuel conflict.

“Through language-inclusive policies, we can empower marginalised groups, give voice to indigenous communities, and promote civic participation. In doing so, we lay the groundwork for more peaceful and cohesive societies,” Adeniran stated.