A group of Osun indigenes residing in Ghana has unveiled plans to establish a school in their country of residence, where the Yoruba language will be taught.
The group aims to ensure that children born and raised in Ghana can learn Yoruba, preserving the language and culture even in a foreign land.
During a courtesy visit to the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun, in his palace on Tuesday, the group disclosed their intentions and outlined the steps they would take to make the project a reality.
The president of the group, Ayokanmi Ogunremi, who hails from Iresi town in Osun, explained to journalists that their goal is to provide an opportunity for children in Ghana to learn Yoruba language and traditions.
Ogunremi stated that the group plans to seek the support of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, to facilitate the establishment of the school.
He explained that having the governor’s backing would help overcome the bureaucratic hurdles they might face in a foreign country.
“We want to see the governor to let him know our agenda. The big plan is that we want to have a school that will teach Yoruba language, so that our language will be well established even in a foreign land.
“There are some things we cannot do by ourselves. When you want to establish a school in a foreign land, there are some documentation that they will require, and with the help of the governor, it will be easier. The people we cannot talk to individually or as an association, the governor can speak for us and make it easier. That is why we need his support to realize this,” Ogunremi said.
During the visit, Ogunremi also sought the blessing and advice of Oba Olanipekun on fostering interfaith dialogue and collaboration to address community challenges within Osogbo and beyond.
He commended the monarch for his efforts in promoting peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths in Osogbo.
“We humbly seek your blessings and your invaluable fatherly advice, particularly on fostering interfaith dialogue and collaboration in addressing community challenges within Osogbo and beyond. We are particularly interested in learning from your leadership on maintaining religious tolerance and promoting peace and progress.
“Furthermore, we commend Your Majesty for the peaceful atmosphere you have fostered in Osogbo, setting a shining example for all. The harmony among different faiths is truly inspiring. We are eager to learn from your leadership and contribute to the peace and progress of Osogbo, exploring avenues for homeland. We look forward to strengthening our ties with Osogbo and contributing to its continued prosperity,” he said.
In his response, Oba Olanipekun gave the group his royal blessing, affirming that Osogbo is the epitome of religious tolerance.
He emphasised that Osogbo is a place where all religions coexist peacefully, stating, “I want to thank you for coming. We practice all religions in Osogbo. In terms of religious tolerance, no town is above Osogbo. Every religion collaborates, and that is why we have a peaceful town.”
