As South Africa celebrates Heritage Month — a time when we honour the rich tapestry of cultures, languages and traditions that define our nation — it is fitting we reflect on the role of language in shaping our future.
South Africa’s education system is undergoing significant transformation as part of broader efforts to achieve the national development plan goals by 2030. Central to this transformation is the need to address the role of language in teaching and learning.
As we push for systemic improvements in education, it is crucial to recognise that language is not just a medium of instruction, but rather a fundamental element that shapes the effectiveness and outcomes of education at all levels. This is especially true in a country with 12 official languages, with sign language the latest addition.
Language is the cornerstone of all learning. The power of language extends far beyond its traditional use as a medium of communication — it is a fundamental resource that influences cognitive development, shapes understanding, and is the foundation for helping learners gain knowledge.
Whether in literacy, mathematics or other subjects, the language learners use shapes how they process and retain information. It is through language that they are able to internalise complex concepts, engage in higher-order thinking, and communicate their ideas effectively.
By building a strong foundation in a child’s mother tongue, we enhance his or her ability to understand and engage with new concepts, leading to better learning outcomes
Therefore, teachers should move beyond the simplistic view of language as a mere vehicle for instruction. Instead, it should be viewed as a dynamic and multifaceted tool that can be intentionally integrated into every aspect of teaching and learning. This requires a deliberate and strategic approach to language use in the classroom — one that supports all learners regardless of their backgrounds, levels the educational playing field, and ultimately empowers them to achieve their full potential.
One of the most powerful strategies for leveraging language in education is mother tongue-based bilingual education (MtBBE). This approach, which involves teaching learners in their home language while gradually introducing a second language, has been shown to significantly support cognitive development and academic success. By building a strong foundation in a child’s mother tongue, we enhance his or her ability to understand and engage with new concepts, leading to better learning outcomes.
Maskew Miller Learning is excited about the intention of the department of basic education (DBE) to roll out MtBBE from 2025. We believe this approach not only supports cognitive development, but also fosters a more equitable and inclusive learning environment.
When pupils are taught in a language they understand, they are more likely to participate actively in the learning process, retain information, and build the confidence needed to tackle new challenges.
Furthermore, MtBBE acknowledges and leverages the linguistic capital pupils bring from their homes and communities. This wealth of language skills and cultural knowledge is an invaluable resource that can be applied to create richer, more meaningful learning experiences. By recognising and celebrating the diverse linguistic backgrounds of our pupils, we not only promote inclusivity, but also prepare them to thrive in a multilingual and multicultural world.
To effectively use language as a resource, educators must adopt a strategic approach that is both deliberate and inclusive. This begins with the integration of language-based activities into the curriculum. Lessons should be designed to engage learners with language in diverse and meaningful ways — through debates, writing exercises, collaborative projects, and more. Such activities not only deepen learners’ understanding of content, but also help them develop critical thinking and communication skills essential to their future success.
Differentiated instruction is another key strategy. By tailoring language use to meet the diverse needs of learners, educators can ensure that all learners, regardless of their language background, can access and engage with the material effectively. This could mean using step-by-step support to help learners at different skill levels or allowing them to switch between languages and use all the languages they know to better understand the material.
The DBE should continue to collaborate with stakeholders in prioritising the development of high-quality educational materials in all official languages and ensure teachers are adequately trained to deliver instruction in these languages.
Fostering a multilingual environment is equally important. Encouraging the use of multiple languages in the classroom not only respects learners’ linguistic identities, but also enhances cognitive flexibility. When learners are allowed to use their home languages to support learning, they are better able to grasp new concepts and apply them in meaningful ways.
Fostering a multilingual environment is equally important. Encouraging the use of multiple languages in the classroom not only respects learners’ linguistic identities, but also enhances cognitive flexibility
Beyond practical strategies, educators must also cultivate critical language awareness among learners. Language is not neutral — it shapes thought, power dynamics and social structures. By teaching learners to critically analyse the language used in texts, media and everyday interactions, we equip them with the tools to navigate and challenge societal norms.
As teachers, our role is not just to impart knowledge, but also to create optimal learning environments that give our learners the best chance of realising their potential.
In South Africa, the challenge is ensuring all pupils have access to quality education in a language they understand. Substantial work has already been done to address the complexities involved in addressing language diversity in our schools, but this is clearly not an overnight fix.
Instead, we need to approach this task carefully and with determination, working closely with all stakeholders, fostering a deep and collaborative partnership that leverages our collective strengths and shared commitment to success.
• Aineamani is an executive for Maskew Miller Learning, which offers educational solutions from early childhood to professional certification.
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