Mother-tongue development crucial in ECD
ACDT champions multilingual education
The African Child Development Trust provides learning materials in 12 languages, including sign language.
In a world that is becoming increasingly globalised, preserving and fostering native languages has become more important than ever. Among the most critical stages for language development is early childhood, particularly for five- to six-year-old children. Studies have shown that a strong foundation in one's mother tongue can significantly impact a child's cognitive, emotional and social development.
Emphasising this crucial aspect of education, the African Child Development Trust's (ACDT) education project stands at the forefront of championing multilingual education by providing learning materials in 12 languages, including sign language.
Namibia, like many African nations, is home to a rich tapestry of languages and cultures.
The ACDT's education project recognised the immense importance of acknowledging and preserving this linguistic diversity. By offering learning materials in different languages, it enables children to not only understand the world around them, but to also celebrate their heritage and maintain a connection with their roots.
Key advantage
One of the key advantages of using the mother tongue in early childhood education is the promotion of strong parent-child relationships. When parents can communicate with their children in their native language, it fosters a nurturing and supportive learning environment. Furthermore, utilising the mother tongue in education helps to reduce barriers to learning.
Children are more likely to grasp complex concepts and perform better academically when they can fully comprehend the language of instruction. As a result, they are more confident in their abilities and motivated to learn.
The ACDT's education project is a shining example of how organisations can make a tangible difference in promoting mother tongue language development. By offering learning materials in different languages, it empowers educators and learners alike to embrace the diversity of their linguistic heritage.
Culturally relevant
As an education partner, the ACDT equips schools with culturally relevant teaching resources.
“As we continue to advance in the digital age, preserving mother tongue languages becomes even more imperative. Language is not only a means of communication, but also a reflection of our shared history and values,” the trust said in a statement.
“By investing in the mother tongue language development of five- to six-year-old children, we are sowing the seeds of a brighter future where cultural diversity is celebrated and communities flourish. Thanks to initiatives like the education project, we can take confident strides towards ensuring that no language is left behind.”
For more information, visit acdtrust.com, or scan the QR code to watch a video.
Emphasising this crucial aspect of education, the African Child Development Trust's (ACDT) education project stands at the forefront of championing multilingual education by providing learning materials in 12 languages, including sign language.
Namibia, like many African nations, is home to a rich tapestry of languages and cultures.
The ACDT's education project recognised the immense importance of acknowledging and preserving this linguistic diversity. By offering learning materials in different languages, it enables children to not only understand the world around them, but to also celebrate their heritage and maintain a connection with their roots.
Key advantage
One of the key advantages of using the mother tongue in early childhood education is the promotion of strong parent-child relationships. When parents can communicate with their children in their native language, it fosters a nurturing and supportive learning environment. Furthermore, utilising the mother tongue in education helps to reduce barriers to learning.
Children are more likely to grasp complex concepts and perform better academically when they can fully comprehend the language of instruction. As a result, they are more confident in their abilities and motivated to learn.
The ACDT's education project is a shining example of how organisations can make a tangible difference in promoting mother tongue language development. By offering learning materials in different languages, it empowers educators and learners alike to embrace the diversity of their linguistic heritage.
Culturally relevant
As an education partner, the ACDT equips schools with culturally relevant teaching resources.
“As we continue to advance in the digital age, preserving mother tongue languages becomes even more imperative. Language is not only a means of communication, but also a reflection of our shared history and values,” the trust said in a statement.
“By investing in the mother tongue language development of five- to six-year-old children, we are sowing the seeds of a brighter future where cultural diversity is celebrated and communities flourish. Thanks to initiatives like the education project, we can take confident strides towards ensuring that no language is left behind.”
For more information, visit acdtrust.com, or scan the QR code to watch a video.
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