‘Language Proficiency’ helps students compete globally

Rithu Dravid | NT

Bengaluru: In a global economy, individuals who can communicate in multiple languages have a competitive edge both domestically and internationally.

They tend to earn higher salaries and have better career prospects. However, in a diverse and multilingual country like India, language can also pose significant challenges for education.

Developing proficiency in multiple languages at an early age can be effective as children have a natural language acquisition ability.

Encouraging students to actively use their language skills in practical settings will enable them to approach challenges from different angles.

According to language experts, “students who can communicate in multiple languages have a competitive edge”.

Career counsellors and academicians have highlighted the fact that learning multiple languages enhances cognitive abilities such as memory, problem- solving, and critical thinking.

This, they say will foster an inclusive environment through community involvement by engaging and encouraging not only students but also families, communities, parents to use their native language at home and other spaces.

By this individuals can develop a sense of cultural understanding and appreciate different cultures/ perspectives and promote crosscultural communication.

Likewise some academicians see the immediate need to incorporate multilingual education into the education system.

They say, “This will provide opportunities for educators to become proficient in multiple languages and ensure the delivery of highquality multilingual education and create a positive learning environment”.

They suggest the curriculum design should focus on speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. These academicians also ideate on incorporating various cultural activities, celebrations, and exposure to literature, art, and history from various cultures to early learners.

Such learning opportunities they say will provide additional knowledge and promote cultural understanding.

In addition, education experts see the need to leverage technology to support multilingual education through digital resources, language learning apps, and online communities, which can provide additional learning opportunities and connect students with native speakers of different languages.

Therefore by implementing a few important strategies, multilingual education can be effectively incorporated into the education system, promoting cultural understanding, enhancing cognitive abilities, and equipping individuals/ students to compete globally.