A showcase of diverse African languages

Kwa-Thema – Zithembeni Primary School joined the world in celebrating International Mother Language Day on Monday.
Learners and staff members dressed up in their traditional ceremonial attires.
The event kicked off with learners reciting their clan names, followed by a play, cultural dances, poetry and musical items.
The day is commemorated annually on February 21 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism globally.

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This year’s theme was Using Technology for Multilingual Learning: Challenges and Opportunities.
School principal Sonnyboy Makhubela expressed how indigenous languages are being overlooked.
“Speaking English doesn’t measure one’s intelligent, and I wish people could understand that.
“Nowadays, almost everyone wants their child to speak English, but we are neglecting our own beautiful languages.

“Such events are important, especially for us as a school with our medium of teaching and learning being isiZulu.
“It teaches our learners about our different tribes, heritages and cultures and why it is important for us to respect one another,” he explained.
Makhubela added their attempt to promote African languages was in line with the school’s curriculum.
Grade Three learner Nokukhanya George said the event was educative and that she was proud of her mother tongue.
“I love reading in my home language as it helps me absorb information better.
“It makes my learning journey easy and I can share the things I learn with others.
“I encourage others to learn and be proud of their languages,” she said.
Another learner, Gcinile Mbatha (9), expressed her gratitude for the eventful day and added she was proud of her heritage.

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