Language-in-Education Policy in Zambia: The Case of Teaching in A Regional Official Language at A Selected Mission School in Lusaka

Kelvin Mambwe; Naomi Njobvu

doi:10.35877/454RI.daengku2682

Authors

Kelvin Mambwe University of Zambia
Naomi Njobvu University of Zambia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35877/454RI.daengku2682

Keywords:

Cinyanja; Regional Official Language; Lusaka Nyanja; Language-in-Education Policy, Zambia.

Abstract

Upon gaining independence in 1964, the Zambian government embraced English as the official language for education, media, legislation, and all governmental functions. This choice followed extensive discussions on whether to adopt English or a Zambian language as the national language for classroom instruction. Despite arguments in favour of both English and Zambian languages, English ultimately prevailed. This paper delves into the language-in-education policy, with a particular focus on the 2014 Zambia education policy. The study's main objective is to investigate the impact of using Cinyanja, a regional official language, as the medium of classroom instruction for teachers and learners at a selected mission (private) school in Lusaka. Qualitative data was gathered from the school, with four teachers and twenty learners randomly selected from a population of 200 and interviewed individually. Additionally, direct observation was employed as a data collection method. The study revealed that implementing the revised 2014 education policy is challenging because the language used for teaching is considered a second language yet the teaching/learning methods and materials are designed for first language learners. This presents a hurdle for teachers and learners, who must grapple with learning both the language of instruction and the subject matter.

Author Biography

Naomi Njobvu, University of Zambia

Naomi Njobvu has been teaching general linguistics at the Univeristy of Zambia for over 12 years now. She holds a PhD in general linguistics from the University of KwaZulu Natal in South Africa. She is currently supervising postgraduate students at the University of Zambia.

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