Study Reveals Mother Tongue Teaching Key to Early Learning Success
According to a survey done as part of the ‘Mu Karanta’ Literacy for Prosperity initiative, using a child’s mother tongue as the medium of instruction is the most efficient method for cultivating fundamental abilities and attaining academic achievement in young pupils within a formal educational setting.
Mu Karanta Literacy Resource Limited oversaw the implementation of the initiative in 12 local government districts, which included a total of 198 schools in Jigawa State.
Dr. Mary Anderson, the program director, and Mrs. Hindy Muhammad, another director, delivered the report. Their objective was to tackle the deficiency in fundamental skills and literacy among the community.
Mu Karanta Literacy Resource Limited partnered with the Jigawa State Universal Basic Education Board and received sponsorship from BONO Energy. The project centered on the use of the Hausa language and instructional materials composed in Hausa for the elementary levels of grades 1-3 during the academic years 2023-2024.
The study revealed that a significant majority of pupils, ranging from 90% to 95%, comprehended the teachings and had a keen interest in them.
According to Dr. Anderson, a significant number of youngsters had the ability to accurately distinguish and articulate letters. Having a strong foundation in their mother tongue facilitates a smoother transition to acquiring proficiency in other languages.
The research advised Nigerian educators and policymakers to actively encourage the use of indigenous languages in early childhood education as a means to attain proficient fundamental skills and enhance academic success.
Additionally, it emphasized that providing instruction in one’s home language might serve as a pathway to acquiring proficiency in other languages.
Professor Haruna Musa, the Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Universal Basic Education Board, agreed that the study offers a concrete answer to the longstanding issue of inadequate learning outcomes in the state’s fundamental education.
The governor has expressed concern over the subpar academic achievement in schools, particularly at the elementary level. Professor Musa emphasized the need to adhere to the suggestions outlined in the study in order to tackle these difficulties.
In order to guarantee a successful execution, he stressed the need for a continuous partnership with Mu Karanta Literacy Resource Limited for technical assistance and direction.
Study Reveals Mother Tongue Teaching Key to Early Learning Success
