DBE stresses importance of mother-tongue education

The Basic Education Department has joined the global community in celebrating International Mother Language Day by stressing the importance of mother-tongue education.

Currently, less than a quarter of learners receive instruction in their home language beyond grade 3 in the country, with many facing challenges when switching too early to English or Afrikaans.

Research shows that learning in one’s home language significantly improves understanding and academic performance.

The department says its mother-tongue-based bilingual education, which was piloted in 2012, has already shown positive results, especially in maths and natural sciences.

As part of the programme’s expansion in 2025, the department announced that grade 4 maths exams will be offered nationally in a bilingual format.

Acting director of communication and research Terence Khala says parents, educators, and communities are urged to support multilingual education.

"By investing in mother-tongue education, we affirm our commitment to equity, inclusion, and quality learning for all. Our languages are not relics of the past; they are instruments of progress, academic excellence and pillars of our democracy.”