Introduction:
Language is an important determinant in education systems as it plays a crucial role in the teaching and learning process. In this essay, we will discuss the impact of language as an external determinant on the education systems of South Africa, Nigeria, and Egypt.
Impact of Language on Education in South Africa:
South Africa is a country with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. The country recognizes 11 official languages, and all of them are given equal status. However, the language of instruction in schools is mainly English. This has resulted in a disadvantage for students who do not speak English as their first language, as they often struggle to understand the lessons taught in class.
Moreover, the dominance of English in schools has resulted in the neglect of other indigenous languages, leading to a loss of cultural heritage and identity. This has become a matter of concern for educational policymakers, who are now seeking ways to promote multilingualism in schools.
Impact of Language on Education in Nigeria:
Nigeria is a country with over 500 different languages, with English being the official language. However, like in South Africa, English is the dominant language of instruction in schools. This has resulted in a situation where students who do not speak English as their first language find it difficult to understand the lessons taught in class. This has led to a high rate of failure in examinations among such students.
Moreover, the dominance of English has resulted in the neglect of other indigenous languages, which are now facing the threat of extinction. This has led to a loss of cultural heritage and identity, which has become a matter of concern for policymakers who are now seeking ways to promote multilingualism in schools.
Impact of Language on Education in Egypt:
Arabic is the official language of Egypt, and it is the language of instruction in schools. However, the use of English is also common, especially in higher education. This has resulted in a situation where students who do not speak English as their first language find it difficult to understand the lessons taught in class. This has led to a high rate of failure in examinations among such students.
Moreover, the use of English in higher education has resulted in a situation where English-speaking students are given more opportunities than their Arabic-speaking counterparts. This has created a sense of inequality among students, which is a matter of concern for policymakers in the country.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, language is an important determinant in the education systems of South Africa, Nigeria, and Egypt. The dominance of English in these countries has resulted in a disadvantage for students who do not speak English as their first language, leading to a high rate of failure in examinations. Moreover, the neglect of other indigenous languages has resulted in a loss of cultural heritage and identity. Therefore, policymakers in these countries need to promote multilingualism in order to address the challenges posed by language as an external determinant in the education systems.
References:
1.https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/multilinguism-as-a-tool-to-promote-education-in-nigeria/77530tx
2.http://allafrica.com/stories/201711200112.html
3.https://www.news24.com/news24/SouthAfrica/News/most-pupils-struggle-with-core-subjects-if-they-are-taught-in-english-20180110
4.https://www.al-fanarmedia.org/2016/02/language-of-instruction-is-key-issue-in-egyptian-higher-education/
to determine how language as an external determinant influences the education
systems of South Africa, Nigeria and Egypt including refences
1 answer
1 answer