Culture, Indigenous languages and home-grown philosophies

Historically, Africa has been the only place in the world where formal education systems are taught in foreign languages. Since language is pivotal in people’s lives as a means of communication, articulation of cultural identity, value systems and a sense of belonging to society, this has undermined the contribution of African indigenous knowledge systems, languages and home-grown philosophies in the transformation of formal education systems and sustainable development on the continent. In order to counter the above discourses, the Institute will advance a paradigm shift on the significance of using African Multilingualism in Teaching and Learning African Indigenous Languages and African Home-Grown Philosophies for Sustainable Development. The teaching of the languages will be for the purpose of the communities understanding the local contexts of the global developmental agenda (e.g. SDGs).