Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo says his administration will soon reintroduce the teaching of some Edo languages into the state’s school curriculum.
Okpebholo made the disclosure when the leadership of the Esan Okpa Initiative, led by Mr Mathew Egbadon, visited Government House on Thursday in Benin.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage and the promotion of indigenous knowledge.
“We must start (the teaching of our language to our children) from home because charity begins at home.
“We will reintroduce vernacular into our school system. Let every tribe begin to learn and speak their language so that no language goes into extinction.
“When you see your people behind you, there is nothing to fear.
”The strength of a man lies in the backing of his people. With your continued support, I will succeed, by the grace of God.”
Okpebholo, who expressed gratitude to the Esan people for their support, described them as a “critical pillar” that would guarantee his success in office.
The governor also revealed that his administration had directed the Ministry of Education to intensify the rehabilitation of schools in the state.
“I have told my Commissioner for Education, we have to provide seats and desks for schools.
“We will continue massive renovation and fencing, provide boreholes and toilets, and we will start installing solar lights in schools.
“We are already working on a school access programme, where our children can have hands-on experience in computer studies—so they can see and touch technology in real time,” he said.
Okpebholo reiterated his determination to revive Ambrose Alli University (AAU), describing its restoration as “a victory for the people.”
According to him, a substantial job is ongoing to return the institution to its former glory.
Earlier, the President of the Esan Okpa Initiative, Egbadon, applauded the governor’s achievements and underscored the urgent need to protect and advance Esan language and culture.
“Protecting and advancing Esan language, culture, and values is critical. Your Excellency, you now need to reintroduce the teaching of Esan language in schools.
“Esan language is far disappearing because many people of Esan extractions are not speaking it, and the language is not taught in schools. It should be reintroduced into the school curriculum,” he said.
He reaffirmed that the Esan Okpa Initiative remains a non-partisan socio-cultural and intellectual movement dedicated to unity, progress, and the well-being of the Esan land.
They commended Okpebholo for the remarkable progress recorded in less than one year of his administration.
