Experts Call for Inclusion of Vernacular Languages in Education.
Education experts have urged the government to incorporate vernacular languages into primary school curricula to promote local cultures and enhance young learners’ comprehension.
They argued that prioritizing Western languages, particularly English, has created barriers to understanding various subjects, leading to poor academic performance.
Scholars pointed out that the dominance of Western languages in education has hindered students’ ability to grasp complex concepts, especially in subjects like mathematics and science.
They emphasized that language barriers contribute significantly to learning difficulties. Additionally, the decline in indigenous language proficiency among children has limited their creativity and overall comprehension.
Reviving Traditional Learning Methods
During a book launch at Zetech University, Ruiru Campus, experts recommended reintroducing vernacular language instruction in rural schools up to class six.
Dr. Theophilus Kyando from the Technical University of Kenya stated that integrating local languages into the curriculum, as was done in the past, helped students understand their cultures and improved comprehension of challenging subjects.
He further noted that Western nations have successfully preserved and globalized their native languages, whereas African languages continue to be marginalized.
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Prof. Oyier Nyaruath from the University of Nairobi reinforced the need to revive a reading culture. He referenced Sweden, which initially deprioritized books in favor of digital media but later reinstated book reading and writing upon recognizing the knowledge gap this shift had created.
Zetech University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Njenga Munene, underscored the importance of such forums in fostering intellectual development. He highlighted that inviting experts from different institutions enhances academic discourse, sharpens students’ minds, and adds value to university engagements.
The discussion occurred during the launch of I, a book authored by Dr. Daniel Mwai that explores human nature.
Experts Call for Inclusion of Vernacular Languages in Education.
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