“Take Amala To China”: New Children’s Book Promotes Language & Cultural Pride
Bridging Cultures: Nigerian Author Advocates Chinese Language Learning
A Nigeria-based author and educator, Esther Oladimeji, has called on Nigerian children to learn Chinese as a pathway to global opportunities, stressing that early exposure to foreign languages can build international skills without eroding local identity.
Speaking in Lagos, Oladimeji highlighted her latest children’s book, Sade and Walee Take Amala to China, as a practical tool to introduce young Nigerians to the Chinese language while reinforcing cultural pride.
Global Competence with Local Identity
“I believe that Chinese should be introduced in the curriculum because kids need it,” Oladimeji said. “It is time for Nigerian kids to grasp Chinese language. It will open opportunities for both worlds and strengthen relationships between Nigeria and China.”
Her philosophy, she explained, is to blend global competence with a strong local identity. “We help kids in Nigeria learn global skills without losing their cultural roots,” she added.
Oladimeji’s work is anchored in Omeda, an initiative she founded to create educational programs and redistribute free learning tools to underserved communities. She also collaborates with the Hakeem Shitta Photo and Cultural Archive (HSPACA) to curate storytelling-based history lessons, emphasizing cultural education alongside cognitive development.
The Inspiration Behind the Book
The author was motivated by gaps in Nigeria’s educational system. “We need to start thinking global. Opportunities exist, but we must equip ourselves with the right skills to seize them,” she said.
Sade and Walee Take Amala to China tells the story of two Nigerian children who travel to Beijing for a cooking competition with their favorite dish, Amala. Along the way, they meet children from various countries and confront challenges that require cooperation, problem-solving, and creativity.
“When the food everyone brought went bad, the children worked together to cook fresh meals. In the end, all the children won the competition as a team and Sade and Walee received a Cultural Ambassadorship Award,” Oladimeji explained.
The story aims to teach Chinese language basics, teamwork, and cultural pride, reinforced with a workbook and QR-coded audio lessons to facilitate interactive learning.
Cultural Representation in Education
Oladimeji also emphasized the importance of African representation in learning materials. “Most foreign language books are westernized; the characters are rarely African,” she said. “I wanted Nigerian kids to see themselves reflected in a foreign language textbook.”
She sees Chinese as increasingly relevant globally and particularly for Nigeria, given China’s position as the country’s largest trading partner. “Language learning improves cognitive development, sharpens the mind, and opens doors to technology, business, and diplomacy,” she said.
Technology and Accessibility
The book integrates technology to broaden access, including QR codes for listening and plans for digital flashcards and offline tools. Oladimeji pointed to Chinese educational methods as inspiration: “Even without internet or electricity, children can engage with learning materials. We can replicate this for Nigerian kids while preserving our culture.”
The materials target children, parents, teachers, and educators, aiming to cultivate cross-cultural awareness while instilling confidence in local identity. “After reading the book, children will appreciate other cultures and feel proud of their own,” she said.
Future Plans and Distribution
The book is expected to be released by the end of February, with print copies and sponsorship-supported distribution to schools nationwide. Packages will include toys and supplementary learning tools to encourage engagement.
Oladimeji concluded by urging policymakers and educational stakeholders to invest in cultural and technological education. “If we use simple, fun ways to teach languages, children will be willing to learn. Understanding each other’s language and culture strengthens international ties and personal growth,” she said.
