Use of Multiple Languages (Mls) in Education in Sokoto Caliphate and Contemporary Lessons

Abstract

This paper divulges an overview on the use of multiple languages in education in Sokoto Caliphate and contemporary lessons. The Sokoto Caliphate's use of multiple languages in education played a crucial role in its social revolution, led by Shehu Usmanu Danfodiyo. The caliphate utilized Arabic, Hausa, Fulfulde, and other local languages to disseminate Islamic knowledge, promoting education, social justice, and community development. This approach facilitated effective communication, diffusion of innovation, and localization of foreign languages, yielding valuable lessons for contemporary education in Northern Nigeria. The caliphate's emphasis on mother-tongue education, women/girl education, and personalized learning can inform strategies to address current educational challenges. By leveraging local languages, Nigeria can enhance educational outcomes, promote cultural preservation, and foster socio-economic development. The study highlights the significance of language in education, emphasizing its role in shaping consciousness, cognition, and societal progress. By embracing multilingualism, Nigeria can harness the benefits of diverse linguistic and cultural heritage, promoting inclusive and effective education.