A recent article titled “Their Bhasha, Their Future” delves into the undeniable impact of teaching in one’s mother tongue on skill development and language acquisition. The piece, which discusses the recent decision by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), resonates with the insights shared by the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) executive director.
Historical Endeavors: Drawing from the wisdom of history, visionaries like Mahatma Gandhi and stalwarts such as C Rajagopalachari, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Annie Besant championed the cause of education in one’s own language. Gandhi’s vision centred on breaking barriers, believing that English often acted as a divide. These leaders sought an Indian education system that honoured the nation’s ethos and values, emphasizing native languages before introducing English.
Government’s Initiative: Embracing this legacy, the CBSE issued a groundbreaking order on July 21, underlining the importance of instruction in the mother tongue. This step aligns with the essence of the National Education Policy, which strives to preserve and promote native language education.
UNESCO’s Endorsement: UNESCO, a global advocate for mother tongue education since 1953, has consistently highlighted its importance through its Global Education Monitoring Reports. Research by UNESCO underscores that learning in a language other than one’s own can impede educational progress, especially for economically disadvantaged children. The organization recommends a minimum of six years of mother tongue instruction to bridge learning gaps among minority language speakers.
A Path Forward: To capitalize on these insights, several measures are imperative:
• CBSE Implementation: The CBSE’s directive must be implemented with precision, bringing mother tongue instruction to the forefront.
• Educational Adaptation: Challenges related to teacher recruitment, curriculum development, and teaching materials need to be addressed to cater to diverse linguistic backgrounds.
• Leading by Example: Government-run Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas should serve as role models by pioneering the integration of the mother tongue
instruction.
• Evidence-based Policy: Policymakers should prioritize evidence-based advantages of mother tongue education, moving beyond anecdotal support for English-only instruction.
• Preserving Cultural Heritage: Recognizing every child’s right to education in their mother tongue is paramount, fostering both educational excellence and a deep cultural connection.
Conclusion: The journey towards holistic education finds its compass in the mother tongue. Upholding and promoting native-language instruction is not just a matter of education; it’s a testament to nurturing learning excellence and preserving cultural heritage in the vibrant tapestry of India’s educational landscape.
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