EXPLORING CULTURAL SYNERGIES: INTEGRATING YORUBA LANGUAGE IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING EDUCATION

Abstract

This position paper explores the potential synergies between Mechanical Engineering and the Yoruba language, with a focus on integrating Yoruba language and cultural elements into engineering education. The choice of Yoruba language is driven by its rich cultural heritage and its significant presence in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria and Benin. Yoruba is one of the most widely spoken languages in the region, with millions of native speakers. Embracing the Yoruba language in Mechanical Engineering education presents an opportunity to foster cultural inclusion, celebrate indigenous knowledge, and promote a deeper understanding of engineering concepts within the Yoruba cultural context. By exploring a multidisciplinary approach that integrates language and culture into engineering education, this paper seeks to contribute to the advancement of inclusive engineering pedagogy and the development of contextually relevant engineering solutions for Yoruba-speaking communities and beyond.