Daengku: Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences Innovation
Vol. 4 No. 4 (2024)

Language-in-Education Policy in Zambia: The Case of Teaching in A Regional Official Language at A Selected Mission School in Lusaka

Kelvin Mambwe (University of Zambia)
Naomi Njobvu (University of Zambia)



Article Info

Publish Date
14 Jun 2024

Abstract

Upon gaining independence in 1964, the Zambian government embraced English as the official language for education, media, legislation, and all governmental functions. This choice followed extensive discussions on whether to adopt English or a Zambian language as the national language for classroom instruction. Despite arguments in favour of both English and Zambian languages, English ultimately prevailed. This paper delves into the language-in-education policy, with a particular focus on the 2014 Zambia education policy. The study's main objective is to investigate the impact of using Cinyanja, a regional official language, as the medium of classroom instruction for teachers and learners at a selected mission (private) school in Lusaka. Qualitative data was gathered from the school, with four teachers and twenty learners randomly selected from a population of 200 and interviewed individually. Additionally, direct observation was employed as a data collection method. The study revealed that implementing the revised 2014 education policy is challenging because the language used for teaching is considered a second language yet the teaching/learning methods and materials are designed for first language learners. This presents a hurdle for teachers and learners, who must grapple with learning both the language of instruction and the subject matter.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

daengku

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Other

Description

The Daengku seeks to publish high-quality research papers, review articles, and book reviews that make a contribution to knowledge through the application and development of theories, new data exploration, and/or scientific analysis of salient policy issues. The Scope of the Daengku includes the ...