At its core, the project seeks to use artificial intelligence (AI) and data science to build a digital tool that will explore, predict, and preserve the unique cultural traits, festivals, language, and traditions of these communities. This tool will be accessible via the internet and mobile devices—making Yoruba heritage available to the world at the tap of a finger.

Speaking at a sensitization visit to the Ogun State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Prof. Folorunso emphasized the urgent need to preserve cultural identities in the face of globalization and generational disconnect. “The aim is to transform centuries of cultural knowledge into formats that future generations can access digitally,” he said.

Beyond preservation, the project is expected to drive cultural tourism, promote community pride, and serve as an educational resource for schools, researchers, and policy makers. One of the major outputs will be a labelled dataset containing curated cultural elements—a first-of-its-kind for indigenous knowledge systems in Nigeria.

Prof. Folorunso noted that this research is not just academic. It embodies FUNAAB’s mission to integrate research, teaching, and community engagement. “We’re turning research into products—products that speak to our people’s identity,” he said.

Digiculture invites all stakeholders, historians, elders, students, and tech enthusiasts to get involved. In the words of Prof. Folorunso, “This isn’t just about coding algorithms. It’s about giving the Yoruba identity a new life in the digital age.”