Breaking Down Language Barriers: Unlocking the Future of Science Learning

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Season 4, Episode 54

Language is key in education. It affects how students learn and connect. Unfortunately, UNESCO reports that 40% of people worldwide cannot learn in a language they understand or speak.

This creates hurdles for effective learning, especially in science, where complex terms can be tough to grasp in an unfamiliar language.

In our latest episode, reporter Michael Kaloki dives into why teaching science in local languages matters in Africa, a continent rich with diverse languages.

Nigerian professor Adeyemi Ademowo advocates for teaching children in rural areas in their native tongues.

Grace Kago, a researcher in Kenya, believes that using indigenous languages in science education can build trust in science and engage communities in discussions.

But how can countries with many languages implement multilingual education? Algerian researcher Zehlia Babaci-Wilhite shares ideas for bilingual and multilingual teaching models.

Catch the episode to explore her suggestions in detail.

This podcast is part of the Science Granting Councils Initiative, which helps strengthen science funding in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Got any thoughts or questions? We’d love to hear from you at podcast@scidev.net.

Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and airs with local radio stations.

Produced by the SciDev.Net Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.