KARACHI:
Inflexible English-medium instruction in primary schools silences young minds, thus hindering content comprehension and participation. Research shows that mother-tongue based education unlocks understanding, fosters dialogue and builds the foundation for lifelong learning. In thriving countries like China, Japan and Germany students excel in their native languages before transitioning to English. Mother tongue isn’t a barrier to higher education, it’s a springboard. It empowers students to express themselves, ask questions and truly grasp concepts. Policymakers must not stifle young voices with foreign tongues. They must let children embrace the divine gift of mother tongue in primary schools. It’s a bridge to understanding, a key to unlocking potential and a foundation for being global citizens.
Kamran Akhtar Siddiqui
Sukkur
Published in The Express Tribune, May 21st, 2024.
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