PRESERVING OUR NATIVE DIALECTS | Shalom Adebayo Oluwatosin | TEDxAduvie Intl School Youth

TL;DR

Research shows a declining number of people who can speak their native dialects in Nigeria due to the introduction of English language, lack of parental imposition, and the absence of practical teaching in schools.

Transcript

in the wise words of the great Nels Mandela if you speak to a man in a language he understands that goes to his head but if you speak to a man in his language that goes to his heart a dialect is a form of language peculiar to a specific region or social group so far Nigeria has done a remarkable job in preserving and appreciating its linguistic Her... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥺 The introduction of English language by the British Empire has led to the decline of native dialects in Nigeria.
• 🙊 Lack of parental imposition and encouragement to speak native dialects contributes to their decline.
• 👨‍🏫 Nigerian schools prioritize English language education, neglecting the practical teaching of local dialects.
• 🏛️ Preserving native dialects is a personal decision, and efforts can be made through language classes, creating personal records, and valuing cultural heritage.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the major factor causing the decline of native dialects in Nigeria?

The introduction of English by the British Empire is a major factor causing the decline of native dialects in Nigeria. English has become the dominant language, leading to a decrease in the use and preservation of local dialects.

Q: Why do parents no longer teach their children their native dialects?

Reasons vary, but some parents perceive native dialects as barbaric or uncivilized. They may also believe that speaking English exclusively is more advantageous for their children's future prospects.

Q: Are local dialects taught in Nigerian schools?

Local dialects are no longer practically taught in Nigerian schools. The focus is primarily on English language education, while native dialects are often neglected or excluded from the curriculum.

Q: What are the benefits of speaking and preserving native dialects?

Speaking native dialects provides a sense of belonging, identity, and social connection. It also enables easier communication within communities and acts as a safety measure when traveling or in unfamiliar situations.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Nigeria has over 525 native languages, but the decline in people speaking their local dialects is a concerning trend.

• The introduction of English language by the British Empire has made English the dominant language and caused a decline in the use of native dialects.

• Parents no longer impose their native dialects on their children, and some even discourage speaking them in public.

• Schools in Nigeria do not practically teach local dialects, focusing more on English and other subjects.