Date
Mar 19, 2024
Title
The importance of foreign language learning for the future generations:
A brief overview.
Growing up in the multilingual country of Burkina Faso where an estimated 70 languages are spoken, I was immersed in a few of them, and that ignited within me a curiosity and passion for languages. The more I learned them and interacted with speakers of those languages, the more I became aware of the ways I was gaining insight into the social norms, customs, and experiences of those diverse ethnic groups.
I realized early on that languages have not only the power to connect people but also to open new doors for friendships and opportunities. In fact, many of the professional opportunities I was afforded, and the personal connections I made, were mostly a direct result of my foreign language fluency.
In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected, learning and understanding languages, especially for the younger generation is essential. According to a 2019 report published by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, nine out of 10 U.S. employers report a reliance on U.S.-based employees with language skills other than English. Moreover, nearly one in four employers surveyed overall acknowledges losing or being unable to pursue a business opportunity over the singular lack of foreign language skills. This suggests the need to emphasize foreign language learning alongside other subjects, to strengthen the next generation’s ability to compete in a global economy.
The few facts highlighted above speak to the importance of foreign language learning, because language proficiency not only facilitates communication in business dealings, but also fosters empathy, understanding, and respect for diverse perspectives.