E101: History of languages and learning in South Africa

Education Matters in South Africa

Guest: Nompumelelo Mohohlwane
Understanding the power of languages is important, especially in a multilingual and unequal society such as South Africa. There are complex dimensions to be considered because language-in-education policy has a powerful influence on social and economic relations. There are practical considerations around how best to use language to achieve better educational outcomes, and consequently better economic outcomes, especially if guided by sound policies.

The development of Afrikaans and neglect of African languages provides historical lessons of how languages have implications on identity and power. This conversation considers why the language policy dilemma persists through the discussion of economic returns to language and if there is opportunity for African languages to yield better educational and economic returns.
Reference: https://resep.sun.ac.za/mother-tongue-instruction-or-straight-for-english-the-primary-education-policy-dilemma/

Nompumelelo tweets as @Mpumi_NLM. On other social media platforms she lives by her name.

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