The Yoruba Language Preservation Project (Èdè Wa Ní – Ẹ Gbé L’árugẹ) has announced the inauguration of its ‘Brain Trust’, scheduled to hold on Saturday, October 11.

This is contained in a statement on Thursday by the project director, Olushola Macaulay.

Mr Macaulay said the virtual gathering would bring together distinguished cultural leaders, scholars, linguists, educators, and advocates committed to safeguarding and revitalising the Yoruba language, especially among young people.

He said the ‘Brain Trust’, comprising eminent personalities from Yoruba-speaking regions and the diaspora, would serve as the intellectual and strategic foundation of the cultural initiative.

“The formation of the Brain Trust represents a critical milestone in our journey to preserve the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of the Yoruba people for future generations. By bringing together this exceptional group of minds, we are creating a unique force for cultural revitalisation that combines traditional wisdom with innovative approaches,” Mr Macaulay said.

He explained that the project aims to reverse the decline in Yoruba language usage among young people by making language learning an exciting, immersive, and culturally rich experience.

“It seeks to nurture a new generation of fluent Yoruba speakers who are passionate about preserving and promoting their heritage.

“Using a reality show-inspired format, the project will engage youths from Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, and parts of Kogi, Kwara, and Edo States through activities focused on language acquisition and cultural connection,” he said.

According to him, members of the Brain Trust include renowned Yoruba scholars, award-winning authors, cultural advocates, media personalities, and educational leaders.

Mr Macaulay added that the collective expertise of the group would guide the project’s development to ensure authenticity, educational excellence, and cultural sensitivity.

The statement also quoted the general manager of UNILORIN 89.3 FM, Idris Ajintola Ibrahim, as saying that language is the carrier of culture, and its decline leads to the loss of knowledge systems, worldviews, and identities.

“This initiative represents a bold and necessary intervention at a critical time in our nation-building,” Mr Ibrahim said.

According to the statement, the project is powered by the Light-Up Africa Development Initiative. It listed other members of the project team as Oluseyi Soremekun, Paul Emokhare, Bola Jordan, Sharon Omotosho, Damilola Oni, and Taiwo Ibikunle.

Others include Tunde Philips, Idris Akintola, Akin Akande, Babatunde Tiamiyu, Tiwalade Fapohunda, Funke Durodola, and Damola Oladipo.

(NAN)