The House of Representatives is set to undertake a significant educational reform by translating basic science textbooks into major Nigerian languages.
The initiative was disclosed by Abubakar Hassan Fulata, Chairman of the House Committee on University Education, during a meeting with a delegation from the German parliament on Monday.
Kai Gehring, Chairman of the Committee on Education Research and Technical Assessment in the German parliament, led the delegation to Nigeria.
He said the primary aim of the visit was to inform the Nigerian parliament about Germany’s scholarship programs for West African students, specifically highlighting opportunities for Nigerian students.
Gehring announced that by 2025, ”selected students would join the 4,000 Nigerian students currently studying in Germany.”
Fulata thanked Gehring and the German government for their continued partnership and support.
He acknowledged the successful cooperation between the two nations, exemplified by various projects completed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, a German company.
A key agenda item of Fulata’s committee is the translation of basic science textbooks into around 10 major Nigerian languages.
He highlighted Nigeria’s diverse linguistic landscape, comprising about 250 ethnic groups and languages.
Fulata, drawing from his experience as a former lecturer, stressed the importance of students learning sciences in their mother tongue, which he believes will significantly improve the educational system.
Furthermore, Fulata urged the German government to establish a German language centre in Nigeria, akin to the existing French and Arabic language centres.
”Such an institution would further bolster educational and cultural ties between Nigeria and Germany,” he added.
Meanwhile, a bill proposing granting a one-month leave to widowers and a five-month leave to widows has passed the second reading in the House of Representatives.
Sponsored by Saidu Musa Abdullahi from Niger state, the bill aims to provide support to individuals who have lost their spouses, allowing them time to mourn and recover from the challenges of widowhood.
The bill, divided into five clauses, specifies the period of leave granted to widows and widowers, defines eligibility criteria, and outlines punishments for violations. Additionally, it interprets the terms “widow” and “widower.”
