Advancing multilingual education: British Council Conference to address language challenges in South Asia
Kathmandu, Nepal — The British Council hosted a conference on language in education, focusing on South Asia, from September 14-15, 2024, in Kathmandu, Nepal. This landmark event brought together educators, policymakers, and researchers from Nepal, India, and Pakistan to address the critical role language plays in children’s overall development.
Language is often a key yet overlooked factor in a child’s learning process. Many students face significant challenges when taught in a language they do not understand, impacting their ability to grasp essential concepts and perform academically. Education policies frequently prioritise economic or political goals over what research reveals: children learn more effectively when instructed in a familiar language, especially during the crucial early stages of their education.
A significant issue in the region is the lack of adequate training and resources for teachers to effectively teach in a language different from the students’ native tongue. This challenge is further worsened by the competition between state (public) schools using local languages and private institutions using English. Consequently, children often encounter multiple languages in their educational journey - one in textbooks, another from their teachers, and additional languages from peers and home.
While multilingual education offers numerous benefits, it can also create confusion without proper support and implementation. Some countries are making strides in this area, but challenges remain in translating language policies into effective practice. This conference aimed to place a strong focus on language as a fundamental element of learning and to ensure that education policies are practically and effectively implemented.
Key discussion points from the conference included highlighting the role of languages by emphasising the crucial impact of language on education and learning outcomes. Understanding local policies by building a shared understanding of language-in-education policies in Nepal, India, and Pakistan. Sharing best practices by examining successful practices across the region and their underlying reasons for effectiveness. Exploring multilingual education by discussing various approaches to implementing multilingual education, including associated benefits and challenges. Discussing the role of English by analysing how English integrates into multilingual education contexts and lastly moving to action by translating policy and theory into actionable steps for effective implementation.
"Language is the bridge to learning and understanding. By prioritising familiar languages in education, we unlock a child’s full potential and pave the way for their success. This conference is a crucial step towards making that vision a reality across South Asia." Bhogendra Lamichhane, Head of English, British Council Nepal
The British Council is proud to facilitate this significant event, which promises to advance collaboration and spread the discourse on language in education. The conference provided a platform for in-depth discussions and actionable strategies to improve educational outcomes through effective language policies.
For more information visit Language in Education Conference – South Asia | British Council