Since independence in 1947, there has been a fierce debate in the country about the medium of instruction in our educational institutions. Many educationists, linguists, psychologists and experts have argued for the use of the national language Urdu as the medium of instruction. Others have spoken for different mother tongues in different areas of the country while many have spoken for the importance and necessity of first learning and then teaching the English language. The outcome of this debate is still not known. The debate goes on but nobody can deny the importance of mastering the English language for our students.
Today the world has over 5,000 languages and dialects spoken in different parts of the world, so why is it so important to learn the English language? Why not other languages such as French, German, Italian, Chinese or Arabic?
The English language is spoken and taught in about 118 countries of the world and worldwide there are over 1,452 million English language speakers in the world today. There was a time when Britain ruled over a greater part of the world and it was said that the sun never sets on the British Empire. The British took the English language with them to all corners of the world that they colonized, and today all former British Colonies still use English as their official language. English is the language of trade, diplomacy, and it is also the language of science, aviation, computers, banking and tourism. It is also the main language of international communications, social media and the internet.
English may not be the most spoken language in the world but it is still the official language in 53 countries and is the spoken first language of around 400 million people worldwide. And it is the most common second language in the world. According to the British Council, by 2020 about two billion people are studying the English Language, therefore it is very likely that if we meet someone from another country we will be able to communicate in English with ease and comfort. English provides an open door to the world and facilitates in communicating with global citizens.
Moreover, English is currently the language of the internet. An estimate of 565 million people use the internet every day and about 52% of the world’s most visited websites are displayed in English. Therefore, learning this language gives access to over half the content of the internet, which might not be available otherwise. Whether it is for fun or for work, if you understand English, you will be able to exchange information with more people online and use many more materials. In today’s fast moving world numerous films, TV shows, books magazines and music are published in English, so English speakers don’t need to rely on translations or subtitles and just by accessing the media one can improve English language skills in reading and writing too.
Research from a 2012 Swiss study shows that learning a new language changes brain structures, impacting the parts of the brain responsible for memory, conscious thought and it can make you more creative
Since English is spoken as a first language in 53 countries and as a second language in over 118 countries, learning the language makes it much easier to travel anywhere. Indeed, airport announcements, train timetables, emergency information and street signs are often available in English, including in countries where the native language uses a different type of alphabet. It goes without saying that when travelling to a country where you don’t speak the language, you are practically guaranteed to find someone who understands at least some English.
Most diplomats, foreign affairs professionals and delegates of different nations communicate in English during conferences, negotiations and multinational summits. Proficiency in English is an essential skill for diplomats representing our country and engaging in diplomatic negotiations on a global platform. While English offers practical advantages in diplomacy, business and other international relations, its subjective benefits resonate with individuals seeking personal growth, cultural enrichment, and expanded opportunities in various aspects of life. Learning the English language can give our people a competitive edge, making them more attractive to international companies and employers that could lead to work on international projects in line with their passion and skills.
Command over the English Language could also result in many educational opportunities for students seeking to enhance their professional skills in foreign universities. Students can explore study programs in universities worldwide to broaden their horizons and pursue their higher education. They can have access to cutting edge research, academic literature, online courses and a treasure trove of valuable materials for their research projects or papers. Learning a foreign language enhances your cognitive and analytical abilities. Learning a new language can be difficult and it involves a lot of mental exercises. Research from a 2012 Swiss study shows that learning a new language changes brain structures, impacting the parts of the brain responsible for memory, conscious thought and it can make you more creative.
In the long term, bilingualism can keep the brain healthy into old age and supports concentration and memory skills. On an individual level, it improves personality and increases sense of self-worth. In simple words, learning a foreign language makes the brain stronger and more versatile.