Bilingual education: meeting the challenges of diversity in Botswana

bibliographic database
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Periodical article

Title:	Bilingual education: meeting the challenges of diversity in Botswana
Author:	Ayedemi, Deborah A.
Year:	2008
Periodical:	Nordic Journal of African Studies (ISSN 1459-9465)
Volume:	17
Issue:	1
Pages:	20-33
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Botswana
Subjects:	languages of instruction multilingualism basic education mother tongues educational policy
External link:	https://www.njas.fi/njas/article/view/245/232
Abstract:	This paper reviews the role of language in addressing issues of instruction and diversity towards the achievement of the aims of basic education in Botswana. It also examines the role of the mother tongue in instruction in promoting and sustaining national educational and social goals. It further reviews Botswana's language in education policy and its implementation. The failures, inconsistencies between policy and practice, and other obstacles are discussed. The need for compromise in the implementation of mother tongue instruction in the bilingual education model and the implications for literacy are discussed. Finally, suggestions for the implementation of mother tongue instruction and the bilingual education model are outlined to ensure that government responds to the needs of its citizens, in the continuous efforts at mobilizing the people for national unity and sustainable development. Bibliogr., sum. [Journal abstract]