Language plays a crucial role in education, shaping how students learn and connect with the world.
Yet, according to UNESCO, 40 per cent of the global population does not have access to education in a language they speak or understand.
This gap presents a significant barrier to effective learning, particularly in science education, where technical terms and complex concepts are often difficult to understand in unfamiliar languages.
In our first podcast episode of 2025, our reporter, Michael Kaloki, explores the importance of teaching science in local languages in Africa where multiple indigenous languages are spoken.
Adeyemi Ademowo, a Nigerian professor of social anthropology and African cultural studies at Afe Babalola University in Nigeria’s Ekiti state, wants to see children in rural areas taught in their local language.
Grace Kago, a Kenyan post-doctoral fellow in biomedical sciences at the University of Texas, says teaching science in indigenous languages can foster public trust in science and encourage community participation in scientific discussions.
How can multilingual education systems be implemented in countries with numerous languages? Algerian researcher Zehlia Babaci-Wilhite proposes some innovative solutions, including bilingual and multilingual education models.
Tune in to the episode to find out how she suggests implementing this approach.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This podcast was supported by the Science Granting Councils Initiative which aims to strengthen the institutional capacities of 18 public science funding agencies in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station
This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.
Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.