‘Storylines were evaluated, versioned to present girls and boys as equally capable protagonists’
Associate Professor of Linguistics, African and Asian Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Lagos, Ebele Okafor, spoke to OLUFEMI TIMOTHY OGUNYEJO regarding the Room to Read Nigeria Book Literacy Adaptation Project and why it’s important at this moment
What are the primary goals of the Nigeria Book Literacy Adaptation Project?
AS far as I am concerned, the primary goal is to increase access to quality, culturally relevant storybooks in Nigerian languages for early-grade readers. By localizing Room to Read’s global titles, the project aims to foster reading fluency and a love for reading among children in foundational learning years, thereby contributing to national literacy outcomes.
Why do you think Accessible Publishers was chosen as a partner for this initiative?
Accessible Publishers Ltd was selected due to their strong track record in educational publishing, deep understanding of Nigeria’s curriculum standards, and proven capacity to manage language localization and large-scale book production. Their extensive network in the Nigerian education sector was also a key factor.
How are the unique linguistic and cultural contexts of Nigeria being addressed in the book adaptation process?
The adaptation teams included native speakers, cultural reviewers, and linguists to ensure authenticity. Local idioms, festivals, foods, and folktales were infused into the narratives to make the books resonate with the children’s lived experiences across Nigeria’s diverse regions.
What criteria are used to select the books for adaptation?
Books were selected based on their alignment with early-grade reading standards, potential for cultural adaptation, and representation of universal themes such as kindness, curiosity, and resilience. Priority was given to titles that could be easily re-contextualized within Nigerian settings.
What does the adaptation process entail such as translation, localization, inclusive content?
The process includes linguistic translation, cultural adaptation (changing names, foods, settings), and a sensitivity review to ensure inclusivity. Illustrations were modified to reflect Nigerian dress, landscapes, and schools. Each adaptation and versioning process underwent rigorous quality assurance by linguists and child development experts.
Dr. Ebele Okafor
How are gender equality and social inclusion being addressed in the adapted materials?
Storylines were evaluated and, where necessary, versioned to present girls and boys as equally capable protagonists. We also integrated stories that reflect children with disabilities, rural and urban experiences, and characters from different socioeconomic backgrounds to ensure broad inclusion.
