Prof Dan Kgwadi

Message from

the vice-chancellor

Dear alumnus,

 

The NWU is currently reviewing its language policy and plan. Convocation and other stakeholders are in the process of being consulted. Please watch out for email and web communication in this regard. More information about the revision of the policy and plan is available in the article “Consultation is key in language policy revision”.

 

The reality is that we need to construct a language policy and plan that will satisfy often contradictory demands from stakeholder groups. We take our cue from our Statute which provides that the language policy of the university, “must be flexible and functional, and must redress language imbalances of the past and promote multilingualism, access, integration and a sense of belonging.”

 

In recent litigation before the Constitutional Court, Judge Johan Froneman remarked: “… what is singularly lacking in the applicants’ founding affidavit is any recognition of the complexity of the language rights of others and the unequal treatment of oppressed people of other races in the past, let alone the continued existence of historic privilege.”

 

We welcome engagement that takes into account these concerns. A simple “yes or no for Afrikaans or for English” will not take us a step further to a solution. Rather you are invited to engage with us on how we can respond convincingly and sustainably to the challenge set by our Statute.

 

In practice, we are also challenged inter alia by the Council on Higher Education. During a degree programme review they found that our language practices of lecturing in Afrikaans and simultaneously interpreting into English has the effect of alienating students. Remember, these students listen to the lecture through head phones and at least in some instances do not experience the teaching and learning environment as inclusive.

 

Help us to respond to the 42,9% of students on our campuses who in a culture and climate survey conducted late last year indicated that the use of language in social settings left them feeling excluded. Or the 23,8% who said that their academic performance is hindered by language practices.

 

Help us to create an academic home for all our students from whatever cultural, language or social background – a home that is multilingual, inclusive and geared towards excellence.

 

 

Kind regards,

 

​

Prof Dan Kgwadi

Vice-Chancellor