The Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) has initiated a programme to translate science, technology, and mathematics (STEM) terms into nine major Nigerian languages: Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Edo, Efik, Fulfulde, Izon, Kanuri, and Tiv.
This effort, led by NERDC’s Language Development Centre, aims to make science education more accessible to children by teaching them in their mother tongues.
This move is part of the National Language Policy, approved in 2022, which mandates the use of indigenous languages for instruction from early childhood to primary six.
The policy aims to enhance learning outcomes by utilising languages that are familiar to students.
The Executive Secretary of NERDC, Prof. Salisu Shehu, mentioned that developing a comprehensive STEM vocabulary in local languages will support this goal.
Educators like Prof. Abdussamad Umar Jibia from Bayero University, Kano, and Prof. Chuma Okeke from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, have expressed support for the initiative, noting that teaching STEM subjects in native languages can enhance understanding and strengthen the education system.
The programme also addresses challenges such as the shortage of qualified teachers fluent in local languages and the need for instructional materials.
NERDC is working on training teachers and producing resources to support policy implementation.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to preserve Nigeria’s linguistic heritage and improve education by making learning more inclusive and effective.
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