, ENG2611 ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2026
DUE DATE: 15 APRIL 2026
(3 ESSAYS PROVIDED)
The Importance of Multilingualism in Education in Linguistically Diverse Societies
Introduction
Multilingualism should be actively adopted as an approach to teaching, learning, and
assessment in linguistically diverse countries because it promotes equitable access to
education, enhances cognitive development, and preserves linguistic and cultural
diversity. In the context of South Africa, where the Constitution recognises eleven
official languages, the continued dominance of English and Afrikaans as languages of
learning and teaching (LoLTs) creates structural barriers for many students whose home
languages are indigenous. As highlighted by Ndlangamandla and Chaka (2023), language
remains a significant obstacle to student success, largely because indigenous languages
have not been sufficiently developed or utilised within academic spaces. Therefore,
adopting multilingualism is not only a constitutional obligation but also an educational
necessity that can address inequalities and improve overall academic outcomes.
Multilingualism as a Tool for Access and Inclusion
Multilingualism improves access to education and promotes inclusivity in linguistically
diverse societies. In countries such as South Africa and India, where multiple languages
coexist, students often enter higher education institutions with varying levels of
proficiency in the dominant academic language, typically English. This creates an uneven
playing field, disadvantaging those who are not fluent. According to the Department of
Higher Education and Training (DHET, 2020), language continues to be a barrier to both
access and success in higher education. By incorporating multiple languages into
DUE DATE: 15 APRIL 2026
(3 ESSAYS PROVIDED)
The Importance of Multilingualism in Education in Linguistically Diverse Societies
Introduction
Multilingualism should be actively adopted as an approach to teaching, learning, and
assessment in linguistically diverse countries because it promotes equitable access to
education, enhances cognitive development, and preserves linguistic and cultural
diversity. In the context of South Africa, where the Constitution recognises eleven
official languages, the continued dominance of English and Afrikaans as languages of
learning and teaching (LoLTs) creates structural barriers for many students whose home
languages are indigenous. As highlighted by Ndlangamandla and Chaka (2023), language
remains a significant obstacle to student success, largely because indigenous languages
have not been sufficiently developed or utilised within academic spaces. Therefore,
adopting multilingualism is not only a constitutional obligation but also an educational
necessity that can address inequalities and improve overall academic outcomes.
Multilingualism as a Tool for Access and Inclusion
Multilingualism improves access to education and promotes inclusivity in linguistically
diverse societies. In countries such as South Africa and India, where multiple languages
coexist, students often enter higher education institutions with varying levels of
proficiency in the dominant academic language, typically English. This creates an uneven
playing field, disadvantaging those who are not fluent. According to the Department of
Higher Education and Training (DHET, 2020), language continues to be a barrier to both
access and success in higher education. By incorporating multiple languages into
