While English undoubtedly holds a vital place in the global arena, it should not come at the expense of native languages.
The erosion of native language skills in Nepali students is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. By teaching at least half of the subjects in the native language, Nepal can ensure that its students maintain a strong connection to their culture, enhance their cognitive development, and ultimately become more competent in both their native language and English.
In the ever-evolving landscape of education in Nepal, the debate over the medium of instruction has gained prominence in recent years. Traditionally, English has been heralded as the gateway to success and global competence. However, the emphasis on English language education has come at the expense of native languages, primarily Nepali. This article delves into the importance of preserving and promoting native languages in the Nepali schooling system, highlighting the need for at least half of the subjects to be taught in the native language.
The Dominance of English
Over the past few decades, English education has garnered an almost revered status in Nepal. Parents, often with the best intentions for their children's future, have been sending them to private English-medium schools. The notion is that fluency in English would open doors to better opportunities and global success. While there are undoubtedly advantages in proficiency in English, this intense focus on the English language has inadvertently led to the erosion of native language skills.
Challenges Facing the Nepali Education System
The Native Language Crisis
A noticeable and concerning trend has emerged—a decline in the proficiency of Nepali, the native language of the country. Many students are now unable to compose a simple request letter in Nepali. This erosion of language skills has raised questions about the impact on culture, identity, and even cognitive development.Statistics reveal that students often struggle with native language proficiency. For instance, a recent survey of high school students in Nepal found that less than 30% could write a coherent paragraph in Nepali, while more than 80% could do so in English. This stark contrast in language proficiency suggests a crisis that needs immediate attention.
Preserving Culture and Identity
Language is more than just a medium of communication; it is a repository of culture, identity, and history. In the pursuit of fluency in English, many students have become disconnected from their roots. They are unable to engage with their cultural heritage, as their native language skills continue to deteriorate. Teaching subjects like history, moral science, and social studies in Nepali or the native language can be a transformative step. These subjects are deeply rooted in the country's history, traditions, and values. When taught in the native language, students are not just learning facts but are also connecting emotionally to their heritage.
Enhancing Cognitive Development
Research in the field of linguistics suggests that cognitive development is significantly influenced by language. The ability to think, reason, and express oneself is closely tied to one's language skills. When students are encouraged to think and learn in their native language, it enhances their cognitive abilities and critical thinking skills. Furthermore, the ability to think in one's native language can facilitate the learning of a second language, such as English. Studies have shown that individuals who are proficient in their native language tend to pick up additional languages more effectively. This connection between native language proficiency and overall linguistic competence underscores the importance of prioritizing native languages in education.
A Holistic Approach to Education
The Nepali schooling system has an average of eight subjects in any given grade at the elementary, primary and high school levels. It is essential that at least half of these subjects are taught in Nepali or the native language. This balanced approach not only preserves cultural identity but also ensures that students have a strong foundation in their native language, which can be a springboard for acquiring proficiency in other languages, including English.
Public vs Private Schools
One notable discrepancy in the education system is that government schools and public schools, which teach in Nepali or the native language, are often regarded as inferior to privately-owned English-medium schools. This perception needs to be challenged. Quality education can be imparted in Nepali, and the government must invest in improving the quality of instruction in these schools.Additionally, English should be taught as a subject in all schools, rather than being the primary medium of instruction. This way, students can still gain proficiency in English without losing a touch with their native language.
Conclusion
While English undoubtedly holds a vital place in the global arena, it should not come at the expense of native languages. The erosion of native language skills in Nepali students is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. By teaching at least half of the subjects in the native language, Nepal can ensure that its students maintain a strong connection to their culture, enhance their cognitive development, and ultimately become more competent in both their native language and English. The Nepali schooling system must strike a balance between English proficiency and the preservation of native languages. In doing so, it will create a generation of students who are not only globally competent but also deeply rooted in their cultural heritage, capable of critical thinking, and proficient in their native language. It's time to rethink the approach to language education in Nepal and prioritize the preservation of the country's linguistic and cultural diversity.
