THE ROLE OF EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS IN THE PRESERVATION OF THE NYANKPA LANGUAGE IN CENTRAL NIGERIA, 1996-2020

Abstract

The quick decline of indigenous languages in Africa raises serious concerns about the survival of minority language communities and their cultural identities. In central Nigeria, the Nyankpa language is threatened by globalization, dominant national languages, and current education policies. This study looks at howeducational institutions can help preserve the Nyankpa language and promote cultural strength among its speakers. Using a qualitative approach grounded in sociolinguistic and cultural analysis, the paper explores how formal schooling, curriculum, and institutional practices affect language transmission, cultural continuity, and identity formation. The findings show that educational institutions in Nyankpa-speaking communities are currently harming the language more than preserving it. English and Hausa dominate as languages of instruction and communication in the classroom. This leads many young learners to develop negative attitudes toward their mother tongue. While the Nyankpa language still thrives in informal settings like homes, traditional festivals, and community gatherings, it is barely present in formal education. However, the study also found that schools could become strong supporters of cultural resilience by including indigenous language and cultural content in their teaching. The paper argues that adding the Nyankpa language to education systems is crucial for enhancing intergenerational transmission and encouraging inclusive national development in multilingual societies like Nigeria. It concludes that culturally responsive educational strategies, backed by intentional policy measures and community involvement, provide the best way to protect the Nyankpa language and cultural heritage.