Blend Western Education with Isese Tradition, Oyo Govt Urges at 2026 Osemeji Festival in Ibadan

Blend Western Education with Isese Tradition, Oyo Govt Urges at 2026 Osemeji Festival in Ibadan

The Oyo State Government has called for a strategic blend of Western education and traditional Isese training to raise well-rounded children who are academically sound and culturally grounded.

The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, made the call on Monday at the 2026 Osemeji Obamoro Foundation Festival held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

The annual festival, which commemorates the historic founding of Ibadan, features traditional rites and prayers dedicated to the peace, unity and prosperity of the ancient city.

Olatubosun stressed that Western education and indigenous cultural training should not be seen as opposing forces but as complementary tools for societal development.

“Western education and Isese training are not in conflict; they are complementary. Our children must excel academically while remaining firmly rooted in their culture and traditions. When a child understands both the modern world and their ancestral heritage, that child becomes confident, balanced and truly empowered. We must not allow education to disconnect us from who we are,” he said.

The Commissioner urged the Araba and Olu-Isese of Ibadanland, Araba Ifalere Odegbemi Odegbola II, to sustain efforts at fostering unity among traditional religious groups, including the Onifa, Olorisa and Onisango associations. He described the growing cordial relationship among Isese adherents as a positive development for the preservation and promotion of Yoruba heritage.

Olatubosun expressed satisfaction at the large turnout of children at the festival, noting that it reflects increasing parental commitment to sustaining traditional worship and preventing its extinction. While emphasising the importance of formal education, he referenced several traditional practitioners who have attained doctoral qualifications, warning that Western education must not alienate children from their roots.

He also announced plans for the forthcoming 2026 World Egungun Festival scheduled for May 1 and 2, aimed at projecting Ibadan as a major cultural and tourism hub.

In his remarks, the Araba and Olu-Isese of Ibadanland, Araba Ifalere Odegbemi Odegbola II, explained that the Osemeji Festival is significant because it marks the historic founding of Ibadan. He noted that Iyere Day, observed as part of the celebration, is dedicated to warding off evil and offering prayers for peace, unity and prosperity across Ibadanland and Oyo State.

The traditional leader expressed appreciation for the cordial relationship between the state government and traditional worshippers, as well as the renewed unity among Isese groups, noting that such harmony was not always prevalent in the past. He pledged to sustain collaboration among stakeholders to strengthen cultural heritage in the state.

Youths at the event were advised to support constituted authorities, offer constructive advice respectfully and contribute positively to community development.

Also speaking, the Oyo State OPC New Era President, Aare Rasak Arogundade, called for increased promotion of the Osemeji Obamoro celebration and urged government to give full backing to cultural festivals. He pledged the support of his association for cultural activities across Yorubaland.

The event drew traditional leaders, cultural enthusiasts and residents who gathered to celebrate Ibadan’s rich history and enduring heritage.