Okorocha proposes African Language-Centric Education for self-reliance

Former Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha, has advocated for a transformative shift in Africa’s education system.

The ex-governor and senator noted that by rooting the education system in African languages, the continent can foster growth and self-reliance.

This approach, he argued, would enable Africans to learn and develop in a more culturally relevant and effective way, rather than relying on colonial languages.

He made the call in Abuja yesterday during the opening plenary of the Africa Student Leaders General Assembly and Ordinary Congress, organised by the All African Students Union (AASU), in collaboration with Reachout World Day, and other partners.

Addressing student leaders from across Africa, Okorocha emphasized that education in foreign languages like English and French has limited Africa’s potential.

He described the dependence on these languages as a form of ‘neo-colonialism’, urging young Africans to embrace their native tongues in educational pursuits.

He highlighted that countries like China, India, and Korea educate their citizens in their native languages, which has contributed to their success. “Africa must be educated in African languages,” he said, adding that such a move would enable the continent to harness its human and material resources effectively.

Okorocha pointed out that Africa is not a poor continent but suffers from poor management of its abundant resources. According to him, the mismanagement came from an education system that does not align with Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities.

Pastor Dipo Fisho, Zonal Pastor of Christ Embassy Zonal 1 in Abuja, urged the youth to prioritize their education while cultivating a strong spiritual foundation.

He emphasized that academic excellence and faith are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary aspects of a well-rounded life.

Pastor Fisho said the programme aimed to inspire and empower the youth to become responsible, educated, and spiritually grounded individuals who can make a positive impact in their communities.

In his intervention, Vice President Kashim Shettima called for the integration of indigenous knowledge into Africa’s education systems as a strategy to tackle the continent’s pressing challenges.

Represented by his Personal Assistant, Mahmud Muhammed, Shettima urged African students to embrace the realities of the continent while striving for global excellence.

“Our education system must be rooted in African realities while reaching out for global excellence. It must address our challenges while celebrating our strengths.

“We must ensure that our education becomes holistic, addressing not just academic knowledge, but also practical skills and critical thinking as well as solutions to real-world problems. We need an education that builds bridges between learning and doing, between tradition and innovation, and between wisdom and global knowledge.

“A pro-Africa education system must integrate indigenous knowledge to address modern challenges. To do this, embracing technology and innovation is essential, which will prepare our youth to be creators rather than just mere consumers. Additionally, community engagement is crucial to link education to local development and address real-world challenges. Distinguished delegates from the African continent, the time for action is now.”

The keynote speaker, Professor David Namwandi, a former Namibian Minister of Education and founder of the International University of Management, who commended the President of All African Students Union (AASU), Osisiogu Osikenyi for hosting the continental event echoed the Vice President’s sentiments.

He emphasized the need for a robust, practical approach to education to unlock Africa’s vast potential.

“For education to unlock Africa’s full potential, we must address some critical issues,” Namwandi said. “First, the curriculum: We must adopt a pro-African curriculum that prioritizes African history, culture, and innovation while embracing global advancements. This approach will cultivate pride in our heritage and inspire solutions to our continent’s challenges.

“Second, technology integration: As the world becomes increasingly digitized, Africa must leverage technology to expand access to education through e-learning platforms and digital resources.

“Third, richer research and innovation: African universities must prioritize research that drives industrialization and economic growth. By investing in research and development, we can create homegrown solutions to African civic problems,” he said.

Also speaking, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, Asefon Sunday Dayo, described the event as a “clarion call to ignite a transformative renaissance in Africa’s education system.”

“This gathering of young intellectuals and visionary leaders across Africa is a testament to the strength of our collective resolve to chart a brighter future for education and youth development across the continent,” he said.

Ashefon expressed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu, to massively develop the nation’s education reform by widening access under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Also, the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Lucky Emonefe, urged participants to use the assembly as a platform for fostering unity and driving progress across Africa.