Preserving culture in a digital age

Have you ever imagined a world without technology? No messages from family WhatsApp groups, no instant access to information, no video calls to loved ones living far away. For many youths today, such a world feels almost impossible to picture. Technology has become deeply woven into everyday life, shaping how people communicate, learn, and even […]

Have you ever imagined a world without technology? No messages from family WhatsApp groups, no instant access to information, no video calls to loved ones living far away. For many youths today, such a world feels almost impossible to picture. Technology has become deeply woven into everyday life, shaping how people communicate, learn, and even understand themselves. Yet, amid these digital conveniences, an important question arises: as society becomes more connected through technology, are people gradually losing touch with their cultural identity?

The 21st century is marked by rapid technological advancement, reshaping communication, education, business, and social interaction. While these developments have improved human life, they have also raised concerns about the survival of cultural values, particularly in developing societies like Nigeria.

Cultural values refer to the shared beliefs, customs, traditions, and behavioural standards that define a people’s way of life. In Nigeria, these values include respect for elders, the use of indigenous languages, communal living, modest dressing, and honesty. They are passed from generation to generation and serve as a foundation for social order and identity.

However, in today’s digital age, these values are increasingly under pressure.

For Aisha, a teenager in Maiduguri, evenings used to mean sitting with her grandmother, listening to folktales told in their native language. Today, those moments have been replaced by hours spent on social media. “I understand my language,” she says, “but I’m more comfortable speaking English now.”

Aisha’s experience reflects a broader trend among Nigerian youth. With the widespread use of smartphones and social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, youths are more exposed to global cultures than ever before. This exposure, while beneficial in many ways, may also lead to the gradual neglect of local traditions.

The dominance of foreign content in the digital space has contributed to a shift in language use, lifestyle choices, and even value systems. English and other global languages now dominate online communication, while many indigenous languages are spoken less frequently, especially among younger generations.

In addition, the structure of social relationships is changing. Traditionally, Nigerian society places a strong emphasis on respect for elders and authority. However, digital culture tends to promote informality and individual expression, which sometimes weakens these traditional norms.

Yet, technology isn’t solely a threat to cultural preservation; it also presents opportunities.

Tunde, a young content creator, has taken to social media to share short videos explaining Yoruba proverbs and cultural practices. His content has attracted a large following, especially among young Nigerians who are eager to reconnect with their roots in a modern way.

“I realised people were forgetting these things,” he explains, “so I decided to use social media to bring culture back.”

This illustrates how technology can be used as a tool for cultural promotion rather than cultural erosion. Digital platforms can serve as archives for traditional music, languages, and practices, making them accessible to a global audience.

Nevertheless, preserving cultural values in a technology-driven society requires conscious effort.

Education plays a critical role in this process. Schools should incorporate cultural studies into their curriculum, helping students understand and appreciate their heritage. Families also serve as primary agents of cultural transmission, and parents must actively teach their children their language, customs, and moral values.

Furthermore, the media has a responsibility to promote culturally relevant content. By showcasing indigenous traditions and positive cultural practices, media organisations can shape public perception and reinforce cultural identity.

At the governmental level, policies that support cultural institutions, such as museums, cultural festivals, and heritage programs, are essential for sustaining cultural values.

In conclusion, while technology continues to shape modern society, it should not come at the expense of cultural identity. Rather than viewing technology as an opposing force, it should be seen as a tool that, when properly utilised, can help preserve and promote cultural values for future generations.

Victoria Dauda is a 200-Level Student of Mass Communication Department, University of Maiduguri.