Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
24 March 2024 | 20:45 CAT

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Most students’ higher education studies in South Africa are conducted in English. This has the benefit of opening doors—even globally. However, the General Manager at The Independent Institute of Education, Peter Kriel, says when students pursue their studies in a language that is not their first language, whether by choice or due to a lack of alternatives, it is not without its challenges.

Radio Islam International discussed the challenges and benefits of English-language education, particularly in South Africa, where we have 12 official languages, with Dr Andre Abrahams, Deputy Dean of Academic Development and Support of The Independent Institute of Education, South Africa’s leading private higher education provider.

Elaborating on the significance of English-language education in South Africa, considering its diverse linguistic landscape, Dr Abrahams says, “feasibility around mother tongue education has always been a problem.”

According to Dr Abrahams, English is still the dominant language in academia, research, and instruction, but it has benefits and challenges.

Non-native English speakers may need help with complex ideas, leading to potential misunderstandings in academic settings. The pressure to master academic English can be overwhelming, affecting a student’s confidence and performance, and must be considered.

Speaking on some of the challenges students face when pursuing their studies in a language that is not their first language, Dr Abrahams pointed out, “English is only the sixth most common language spoken within households in South Africa. This means that English is not the mother language of the majority of students.”

“It is very difficult for these students to make meaning of very difficult concepts, draw inferences because it’s got to be connected what is already known, communication is a challenge and one of the consequences is that students struggle to participate and they lack confidence in the class. If these things are consequences of language, it becomes really difficult for students to express ideas, develop arguments and demystify the English infront of them, making English a challenge within the education space,” he added.

The language of instruction is closely tied to cultural identity. Studying in a language other than one’s own may lead to feelings of detachment and cultural displacement. Students may struggle with internal conflict between embracing a globalised educational experience and preserving their cultural roots.

Native language instruction often has a robust support system, including lecturers and classmates with the same linguistic and cultural background. In an English-dominant environment, students may need additional support to bridge potential gaps in comprehension and communication.

Listen to the full interview on Radio Islam International with Muallimah Annisa Essack.