By Hafsat Hamisu Abba
As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges of multilingualism, a pressing concern has emerged in our educational system. The widespread practice of speaking vernacular languages in schools has sparked a heated debate about its impact on students’ proficiency in English. In this article, we will delve into the effects of vernacular speaking in schools on our ability to communicate effectively in English.
On the one hand, proponents of vernacular speaking in schools argue that it facilitates easier communication among students and teachers, particularly in rural areas where English may not be widely spoken. This argument is not without merit, as research has shown that students who are allowed to communicate in their mother tongue tend to perform better academically.
However, the flip side of this argument is that excessive reliance on vernacular languages in schools can hinder students’ ability to develop proficiency in English. English is the language of instruction, commerce, and international communication in Nigeria. As such, it is imperative that students acquire a strong command of the language to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.
Hafsat is of Aunty Laila Private School Kano
