Lagos State Government has introduced a Yoruba scrabble game in public primary schools to strengthen pupils’ learning, spark creativity, and safeguard the Yoruba language and culture.

Chairman of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Dr Hakeem Shittu, while speaking at the official launch of the Yoruba word game, named Sikirabu, described the initiative as a deliberate step to deepen learning, promote creativity and preserve the Yoruba language and culture among pupils across the state.

“This event is not merely the introduction of another educational activity for schools, it is the celebration of language, creativity and intellectual development among our pupils,” he stated.

The LASUBEB boss said that Sikirabu, which he described as the Yoruba aspect of scrabble, was designed to connect pupils to their heritage in a way that makes learning engaging and exciting.

Shittu stated that education in the 21st century must extend beyond the four walls of the classroom and embrace skills that prepare pupils for a changing world.

According to him, modern learning encourages creativity, communication, collaboration and problem-solving skills.

“Games, such as this, provide an opportunity for our pupils to learn, while having fun,” he said.

He, however, outlined the direct academic benefits of the game, saying that it promotes healthy competition, improves vocabulary, shapes spelling abilities and develops quick listening skills among pupils.

Beyond academics, he stressed the cultural significance of the initiative, saying: “Most importantly, Scrabble starts as a powerful tool in promoting Yoruba language and culture among younger generations in our abilities. Initiatives like this remind us of the importance of protecting our cultural identity, while still learning.”

Shittu also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving the quality of basic education through programmes that encourage literacy, creativity and innovation.

He said the introduction of Sikirabu aligns with the state government’s education transformation agenda of producing globally competitive learners who are also proud of their cultural heritage.

He, however, commended the partners, school administrators, teachers and all state organs that worked to make the initiative possible.

Shittu, therefore, urged the pupils to embrace the game with enthusiasm.

He also called on teachers and head teachers to provide full support for the programme in their schools.

Meanwhile, the initiator and developer of Sikirabu, Adebayo Olabode, said the play-way method was chosen to make the language relatable and practical for pupils.

Olabode said the game allows pupils to play words, names and concepts that are unique to Yoruba and not captured in conventional word games.

He added that structured training for teachers would follow, with Yoruba teachers to be invited to develop educational resources and guide pupils on gameplay.

He described Sikirabu as the first of its kind in any African language, noting that, unlike other word games, it allows the use of names of people, places and culturally significant terms.