Oyo Government Advocates Blend of Western Education with Traditional Values
The Oyo state government, through the State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, has called for a healthy balance between Western education and traditional Isese training.
He stressed that such a combination will equip children with a competitive edge while preserving their cultural identity.
He made the call at the 2026 Osemeji Obamoro Foundation Festival held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Addressing participants, Olatubosun urged the host of the programme, the Araba and Olu-Isese of Ibadanland, Araba Ifalere Odegbemi Odegbola II, to further consolidate unity among traditional groups, including the Onifa, Olorisa and Onisango associations.
He described the growing cordiality among Isese groups as a welcome development for the preservation and promotion of Yoruba heritage.
The Commissioner expressed satisfaction at the large turnout of children at the festival, noting that it reflects parents’ commitment to sustaining traditional worship and preventing it from going into extinction.
While emphasising the importance of formal education, he referenced practitioners who have attained doctoral degrees, cautioning that Western education should not alienate children from their cultural roots.
