Lagos schools to teach Yoruba with interactive board game

The Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board has launched a new partnership with SIKIRABU Africa Ltd to promote the teaching of the Yoruba language in public primary schools through an interactive educational board game.

The initiative, unveiled recently in Lagos, introduces “SIKIRABU,” a culturally themed learning game designed to improve pupils’ understanding of Yoruba language, culture and traditional values through play-based learning.

Speaking at the launch, the Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Dr Hakeem Shittu, said the project aligned with the state government’s broader efforts to preserve indigenous languages and strengthen cultural identity among young learners.

Shittu described the programme as an innovative approach to language education, noting that the use of games and interactive learning tools could make Yoruba lessons more appealing and engaging for pupils in public schools.

Language is a critical part of our identity and heritage,” he said, adding that LASUBEB remains committed to ensuring that children develop an interest in their indigenous language from an early age.

He explained that the introduction of the board game was intended to encourage better proficiency in Yoruba while also exposing pupils to important cultural values embedded in the language.

The LASUBEB chairman, however, cautioned pupils against becoming excessively attached to the game at the expense of their studies.

He stressed the need for moderation, urging learners to strike a balance between recreation and academic responsibilities.

Shittu also appealed to parents to support the initiative by encouraging their children to use the board game as an educational tool capable of deepening their knowledge of the Yoruba language and culture.

The partnership is part of ongoing efforts by the Lagos State Government to promote indigenous education through creative teaching methods within the basic education system.