Emmanuel Alayande University of Education (EAUED), Oyo, has concluded arrangements to inaugurate the Alaafin Institute of Yoruba Studies, a landmark academic centre established to promote the preservation, advancement and global appreciation of Yoruba language, history and cultural heritage.
The institution has invited academics, researchers, students, traditional rulers, cultural enthusiasts and members of the general public to witness the historic inauguration scheduled to hold on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at the University’s 1,500-Seater Auditorium, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the institution’s Media and Public Relations Officer, Mr. Wale Adeoye.
According to the statement, Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, regarded as Nigeria’s first teacher-training institution, is proud to pioneer the establishment of the institute as part of its commitment to promoting cultural preservation, scholarly research and academic excellence.
The statement noted that the institute is expected to serve as a centre of excellence for research, documentation and intellectual discourse on Yoruba civilisation, language, literature, philosophy, history and indigenous knowledge systems.
The inauguration is themed “Preserving the Past, Educating the Future: The Renaissance of Yoruba Intellectualism,” reflecting the university’s vision of revitalising Yoruba scholarship while promoting indigenous knowledge as a vital component of national development.
Renowned African historian and scholar, Professor Toyin Falola of the University of Texas at Austin, United States, will deliver the keynote address at the event.
The programme will also be graced by the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, Elewu-Etu I, who will serve as the Royal Father of the Day.
The Vice-Chancellor of Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Professor Olanrewaju Olaniyan, will host the event, while the Director of the Alaafin Institute of Yoruba Studies, Professor Akinkunmi Alao, will serve as the host.
The statement further disclosed that eminent scholars, including Professor Ademola Bewaji Da Silva, Professor Sola Olorunyomi, and Professor Arinpe Gbekelolu Adejumo, will participate as discussants, providing scholarly insights into the significance of the institute and the future of Yoruba intellectual traditions.
The university described the inauguration as a milestone in its academic history, noting that the institute would foster interdisciplinary research, encourage the teaching and learning of the Yoruba language, preserve historical records and cultural artefacts, and strengthen collaborations with local and international institutions dedicated to African studies.
The management expressed optimism that the Alaafin Institute of Yoruba Studies would become a leading centre for the promotion of Yoruba culture and scholarship, while contributing significantly to the preservation of one of Africa’s richest cultural heritages for future generations.
It called on members of the academic community, policymakers, traditional institutions, cultural organisations and the general public to attend the historic event and join in celebrating a new chapter in the advancement of Yoruba intellectualism and cultural renaissance
