4 new language options coming to schools in South Africa

South Africa must begin a serious debate on mother-tongue teaching and learning, says basic education minister Angie Motshekga.
Presenting her departmental budget speech this past week, Motshekga said that given the demographics of the country, more than 80% of learners, continue to learn in a language other than their mother tongue.
“We must begin a serious debate on mother-tongue teaching and learning. Currently, learners learn in their mother tongue until Grade 3, then switch to English or Afrikaans as the language of learning and teaching.  Not doing so, will continue to contribute greatly to under-achievement.  We must have a policy shift in this area.”
“We must acknowledge the interesting work currently underway in the Eastern Cape on teaching some gateway subjects…