Promoting The Cultural Heritage of Western Region of Nigeria Through Incorporating Aso-Oke Fabrics to Graduation Gown in Tertiary Institutions

Aso-Oke is made from cotton and is branded by sensational colours with elaborate designs, a type of hand-woven fabric that is native to the Yoruba people in Nigeria. There are numerous reasons that points to why Nigerian universities should embrace the use of Aso-Oke fabrics as part of their academic gowns. The sustainability and incorporating of Aso-Oke into graduation gowns in Nigerian tertiary institutions is a promising approach to promoting culture and individuality among the target graduate population in southwest Nigeria. The research surveyed 358 Western tertiary institution graduates in Nigeria in order to assess the acceptance of incorporating Aso-Oke into graduation gowns. The study aimed to identify the level of acceptance and creative incorporation of Aso-Oke with graduation gown material in western Nigerian tertiary institutions. The research employed a descriptive statistics technique using frequencies, percentages; inferential statistical techniques such as mean analysis, chi-square, and ordinary least squares (OLS) regression. Results obtained from the focus group shows that the Aso-Oke gown is culturally endowed and is preferred to be added to conventional gowns. The integration of the Aso-Oke gown at graduation ceremonies allow future graduates the ability to express their cultural and traditional roots through their academic journey, promoting cultural uniqueness and telling others of their cherished traditions and cultures. The study recommended incorporating Aso-Oke with graduation gown in Nigerian tertiary institutions as a means of celebrating Nigerian culture and preserving it for future generations among the targeted population of Nigerian tertiary institution graduates.