The event was launched in Ebolowa in the South Region on Monday.
The 20th edition of Cameroon’s National Week of Bilingualism is underway across the nation, centered around the theme “Bilingualism, the driving force of lifelong learning for greater school achievement, responsible citizenship, and social cohesion for a peaceful and prosperous Cameroon.” Speaking while launching the week in Ebolowa, the capital of the South Region, the Secretary of State in the Ministry of Secondary Education in charge of teacher’s training, Boniface Bayaola urged educational establishments to prioritize the teaching and learning of the country’s two official languages.
Bayaola emphasized that bilingualism is not merely a matter of academic proficiency but a cornerstone for societal harmony and national development. He defined the need for schools to make the teaching and learning of both English and French an obligation, highlighting their integral role in shaping well-rounded individuals and engaged citizens. Some English teachers say there are days some articles are writing in both French and English to enable students learn both languages. The Secretary of State encouraged students, teachers and communities to actively participants in the week-long event for a better Cameroon.
His remarks in Ebolowa, he added, reinforced the government’s commitment to fostering an environment where both languages thrive. Throughout the week, various activities are taking place to promote the equitable use and appreciation of both languages. These activities include round table discussions, conferences, debates, and talk shows designed to foster a better understanding and promote peaceful coexistence among all Cameroonians. These platforms are designed to showcase the benefits of bilingualism and its impact on creating a more integrated and cohesive society.
The events are expected to encourage cross-cultural dialogue and highlight the unique advantages that Cameroon’s dual linguistic heritage offers. The National Week of Bilingualism serves not only as a celebration of the country’s linguistic diversity but also as a call to action, calling on Cameroonian to be engaged. By emphasizing the importance of bilingualism in education and in daily life, Cameroon aims to nurture a generation that is both academically competitive and culturally aware. The nationwide activities during the week will be based on the country’s ongoing efforts to leverage its bilingualism as a valuable asset for national unity and sustainable development.
