The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Blade Nzimande, will host a roundtable on African languages in higher education, at the University of South Africa, Sunnyside campus on 22 October 2010.
In July 2010 the Minister set up an Advisory Panel to advise him on matters relating to the development of African languages in universities and in particular to prepare for this roundtable. The minister has raised concerns about the low status of African languages in universities, dwindling numbers of students in the African languages field, and the implementation of language policy.
The roundtable has been organised to provide space for a focused discussion on African language issues in higher education, and to arrive at a clear, strong set of recommendations for the strengthening of African languages at universities. It is envisaged that the roundtable will both reflect on and provide advice to the minister on what can be done to improve the status of African languages and further develop them.
The roundtable will be attended by representatives of universities, language bodies and others involved in the development of indigenous African languages in South Africa.
Details of the event:
Venue: UNISA Sunnyside Campus - Building 7
Date: 22 October 2010
Time: 09h00am
For further enquiries:
Mr Gwebinkundla (Gwebs) Qonde
Tel:012 312 5501 or 021 465 5513
Fax:012 323 5618 or 021 465 2943
Cell: 082 705 9457
E-mail: gwebs.@dhet.gov.za
