On Monday, Gambia Education stakeholders reviewed and validated a proposed language in Education policy aimed at encouraging the use of first or native languages in the education sector. The World Bank is supporting the interface proposed by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education.

According to Ebrima Sissawo, Permanent secretary at the Ministry of Basic Education, the drafted language policy in Education is consistent with the Gambian collective vision of promoting education excellence through the power of languages. A first language, native language, or mother tongue is the language or dialect that a person has been exposed to since birth, during his or her critical period of development. As a result, learning a second language can be difficult.

However, with proper integration, students can make the most of their language skills.

“This policy on initial language acquisition is more than just a linguistic process.” It is also a cultural and emotional journey that helps a child save his destiny and reconnect with his heritage. As a result, everyone is important in unlocking knowledge, deepening one’s understanding of one’s roots, and laying a solid foundation for learning for our children. Students at the foundational level can best express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas in this manner. The language policy will also help to preserve the country’s cultural heritage and promote multilingalism, according to Ebrima Sissawo.

The Gambia’s government intends to “promote the use of local language in education in order to foster cultural appreciation and understanding while preserving linguistic diversity.”

Participants in the review and validation process agreed that “our language in education policy demonstrates our commitment to cultural heritage, promoting multilingualism, and nurturing one grounded citizen who communicates effectively in a globalized world.”

Sissawo encouraged officials in the education sector to embrace the policy’s significance as stakeholders met to review it.

According to Feyi Boroffice, the World Bank’s resident representative in The Gambia, implementing this policy would promote effective learning outcomes.

“Over a year ago, the World Bank was asked if it could support the Gambia’s interest in promoting the use of native language in education and exploring languages of instruction. We were very interested. And, from what I understand, it has been a very fruitful journey to flesh out this policy. To me, the approach proposed here is critical to laying a solid foundation before erecting a towering structure. Just as a tree requires roots to grow tall and steady, children will benefit greatly from beginning their education in a language they already understand “According to the World Bank official.

The presentation of the Language mapping report 2023 was also shown at the Forum.