This work has attempted to give an overview of how the language policy of the different regimes in Ethiopia has contributed to the sense of national identity. Although language is not the only factor that consolidates or weakens national identity, it plays a significant role. It is with this mine that the book is written. Different language-related policies and documents of the imperial, military and EPRDF regimes were closely investigated. Sections and statements in the policy pertaining to language use were considered as units of analysis. Furthermore, empirical and theoretical literature written in areas of language policy and national identity were consulted. The autoher also included his personal experiences as a university instructor and informal meetings held with people in different walks of life.
The evidence obtained from the sources mentioned above reflects that the language policy used in Ethiopia is highly polarized: ranging from one language to all to no language to all. That is, the regimes before EPRDF dictate one language to be used as a tool of communication to all Ethiopians. On the other hand, the EPRDF regime emphasized local language and culture without (practically) giving any room for national communication.
Both approaches contribute little to national identity formation.
This book recommends that Ethiopians need to learn from other multilingual countries about language planning. Ethnocentric thinking that assumes one’s own language as superior to the other’s language should be avoided. Politicians also need to abstain from politicizing language (identity) and using it as a means of mobilizing support. This book recommends that bilingual/ multilingual education contributes a lot to Ethiopian national identity formation.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Preface
- Introduction
- Chapter 1. The concept of nation-building.
- Elements of Successful Nation-building.
- Unifying and persuasive ideology
- Integration of society
- Functional State Apparatus
- Importance of Building National Identity.
- Language Policy and National Identity
- Language as an instrument of communication/information
- Language as an emblem of identity.
- Language as a sign of recognition and inclusion
- Language Planning
- Monolingual policies
- Multilingual Language policies
- Education and National Identity
- CHAPTER II. LANGUAGE POLICY OF EDUCATION AND NATIONAL IDENTITY IN PRE-1991 ETHIOPIA
- Language Policy of Education and National Identity during the Imperial System of Governance, (1941-74)
- Language Policy of Education and National Identity during the Socialist System of Governance (1974-1991)
- Language Discrimination
- Impact of Language Discrimination
- Coping with Language Discrimination.
- CHAPTER III. LANGUAGE POLICY OF EDUCATION AND NATIONAL IDENTITY IN POST 1991 ETHIOPIA
- Use of Nationality Languages as a Medium of Instruction
- Limitations of Mother Tongue Instruction
- Limitation on mobility
- Limitation on intergroup relations
- The problem of Intergroup Prejudice and discrimination.
- Amharic as a Language of Countrywide Communication (Lingua franca)
- Nationality Language for Cultural Relations
- Importance of Learning Nationality Languages to National Identity
- English as a Medium of Instruction for Secondary and Higher Education
- CHAPTER IV. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS.
- 4.1. Conclusions
- Recommendations
- References
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This work explores the complex relationship between language policy, education, and national identity in Ethiopia. It aims to analyze the evolution of language policies in Ethiopia, particularly focusing on the pre- and post-1991 periods. The text examines the impact of these policies on national integration, the development of ethnic identities, and the role of language in promoting unity or fostering conflict.
- The impact of language policies on nation-building in Ethiopia
- The role of language in fostering or hindering national identity and integration
- The influence of language discrimination on social and political dynamics
- The challenges and opportunities presented by multilingualism in a diverse nation
- The effectiveness of different language policies in achieving national objectives
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
Chapter 1 explores the concept of nation-building and its connection to language policy. The chapter discusses the crucial elements of successful nation-building, including the establishment of a unifying ideology, integration of society, and the development of functional state apparatus. It emphasizes the importance of building a national identity and analyzes the role of language in this process.
Chapter 2 delves into the language policy of education and national identity in pre-1991 Ethiopia, focusing on the Imperial and Socialist periods. The chapter examines the implementation of monolingual policies based on Amharic, highlighting the discriminatory practices and their impact on different ethnic groups. It explores the emergence of armed nationalist movements in response to these policies and the role of language in fueling these conflicts.
Chapter 3 analyzes the language policy of education and national identity in post-1991 Ethiopia, exploring the shift towards the use of nationality languages as a medium of instruction. It examines the challenges and limitations associated with this policy, such as the potential for limiting mobility and intergroup relations. The chapter also explores the importance of Amharic as a lingua franca and the role of English in higher education.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The core themes of this work revolve around language policy, national identity, nation-building, education, multilingualism, ethnic diversity, language discrimination, and political movements in Ethiopia. These concepts are explored through a historical lens, focusing on the pre- and post-1991 periods and the evolving language policies implemented during these times. The text highlights the complex interplay between language, identity, and political dynamics in shaping Ethiopian society.
- Quote paper
- Yirgalem Alemu (Author), 2019, Language Policy of Education and National Identity in Ethiopia, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/498852
