Eritrea champions mother tongue education for inclusive future
ASMARA, Eritrea (MNTV) – A Northeast African nation, Eritrea, in a surprising move, has embraced an inclusive linguistic policy, allowing regional languages a space in the nation’s educational environment.
With nine distinct ethnolinguistic groups, the upgraded policy prioritizes mother tongue instruction, aiming to foster inclusivity and preserve cultural heritage, reports the Eritrean Information Ministry website.
Historically, Eritrea, a diverse country, with Muslims and Christians living side by side, faced language suppression under foreign rule, with languages like Tigrigna being banned.
However, since gaining independence in the 1990s, the government has adopted a policy rooted in the principles of the Eritrean People’s Liberation Front (EPLF), championing equality among all languages while prioritizing the mother language.
This approach recognizes each language’s intrinsic value in shaping Eritrea’s national identity.
This language policy has significantly impacted the education sector. Since independence, school enrollment has nearly tripled, reaching approximately 700,000 students, and youth literacy rates have surpassed 93 percent.
A cornerstone of this progress is the policy that children receive elementary education in their mother tongue.
The mother tongue policy ensures that all children, regardless of background, begin their education in a familiar language.
This approach bridges the gap between home and school, enhancing comprehension and academic performance.
Studies suggest that this method boosts students’ confidence and self-esteem, crucial for their emotional and psychological development.
The MoE, in collaboration with international partners like the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), has invested heavily in teacher training and resource development. Over one million textbooks and teacher guides in nine languages have been printed and distributed.
A public language committee oversees the implementation of mother tongue instruction and promotes public awareness of its importance.
The benefits of this policy are evident in increased educational access, improved inclusivity, and reduced dropout rates. By empowering learners and encouraging community engagement, Eritrea reinforces its commitment to equitable education.
Despite facing challenges, Eritrea’s focus on mother tongue-based education is crucial for sustaining progress and building a more inclusive future. In a world grappling with cultural divisions, Eritrea’s approach serves as a model for preserving linguistic diversity and promoting social harmony.
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