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- Chair:
-
Bert van Pinxteren
(Leiden University)
- Discussants:
-
Taiwo Oloruntoba-Oju
(University of Ilorin)
Comfort Beyang Oben Ojongnkpot (University of Buea- Cameroon)
Doris Löhr (Africa Multiple Cluster of Excellence, University of Bayreuth)
Addisalem Tebikew Yallew (University of the Western Cape)
- Format:
- Book panel
- Location:
- Room 1221
- Sessions:
- Friday 10 June, -
Time zone: Europe/Berlin
Short Abstract:
This panel will offer reflections on the book 'Language of Education and Development in Africa: Prospects for Decolonisation and Empowerment', edited by Oloruntoba-Oju, Van Pinxteren and Schmied.
Long Abstract:
The language question in African education, literature and culture has engaged scholars and activists in a fierce and sustained debate for decades. This book picks up the story of Africa’s apparent linguistic powerlessness, while engaging the prospects of decolonization and empowerment. Reviewing existing pessimistic narratives of the African language situation, and the repercussions of these narratives for development, scholars from different parts of Africa and from Europe weigh in by proposing a changed paradigm, and a more optimistic view of the future. Language is critical to development; painting a static picture of Africa, as one that is forever tethered to colonial languages, is not only untrue but also negatively impacts African agency. This volume proposes that change not only necessary, it is also possible, and even inevitable. Substantive representations from various parts of Africa are showcased in the book in order to put forward an exciting new narrative of decolonization and empowerment. Discussants at this panel engage the difficulties and the possibilities, and invite members of the audience at VAD 2022 to weigh in on this critical issue.