By Emeka Oluka, Femi Dansu & Temiloluwa Osinuga

Prof. Helen Bodunde, a leading expert in Communication and Teaching English as a Second Language of the Communication and General Studies Department at the College of Agricultural Management and Rural Development (COLAMRUD), Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has highlighted pedagogical methods as a key issue in teaching both indigenous and English languages.

Delivering the 91st Inaugural Lecture of the University on June 5, 2024, titled “Eliminating the Avoidable Gulf Between Knowledge and Development,” Prof. Bodunde pointed out the vital role of language in education and its impact on student learning, adding that addressing the pedagogical challenges from the foundation was essential.

She asserted that bridging the gap in comprehension, caused by inadequate teaching methods, could significantly enhance learners’ ability to benefit from education.

Prof. Bodunde, also the Chairperson of the Publications Committee of the University stressed the need to revisit and prioritise transitional bilingual education to enable Nigerians to function effectively both domestically and internationally.

Prof. Bodunde, a member of the International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language (IATEFL) observed that enhancing teacher development was crucial, advocating for intensive training and retraining programmes to ensure language teachers are competent.

She urged 21st-century language educators to adopt high-order intellectual thinking to foster creativity, innovation, and socio-economic development.

Supporting the inclusion of listening skills training at all educational levels, Prof. Bodunde suggested integrating it into orientation programmes for new students to improve comprehension.

She, however, recommended establishing language laboratories in all institutions to aid both students and staff in language learning.

Additionally, Prof. Bodunde proposed the creation of language clinics to offer preventive and corrective language support, emphasising the importance of using appropriate language to stimulate critical thinking in various subject areas.

Earlier in his Introductory Remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde commended Prof. Bodunde for her significant contributions to the growth and development of the University.