PANAJI
While there are concerns about the phase-out of foreign languages in high schools with the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the landscape appears optimistic for higher education particularly in French and Portuguese.
The rollout of the NEP in Class IX has sparked curiosity about the fate of foreign language education including that of its teachers. Despite these worries, the demand among students to specialize in these languages at the college level seems to hold strong amidst the uncertainties.
Professor and Dean of the Shenoi Goembab School of Languages and Literature at Goa University Anuradha Wagle highlighted a growing interest among students to specialize in Portuguese and French. However, concerns loom over the future of teachers not only in Goa but across the nation.
“Students are showing enthusiasm to refine their skills in French and Portuguese despite uncertainties. Yet, there’s anxiety among teachers nationwide as many have obtained master’s degrees and pursued further education, honing their skills to get into teaching. They are waiting for clarity, yet hopeful,” Wagle said, speaking to The Goan.
GU is the only university in the country to offer BA, MA and even PhD in Portuguese and French. Despite comparatively modest enrolment figures in these languages compared to optional Indian subjects, the GU has witnessed a steady influx of students including from other States.
Assistant Professor Dhruv Usgaonkar of Department of Portuguese and Lusophone Studies (GU) stated the decision to waive the requirement of prior knowledge in Portuguese boosted student enrolment.
“In 2019, we issued a circular that prior knowledge in Portuguese is not mandatory. We allowed students, irrespective of their linguistic background, to enroll even before the circular. These students have excelled both academically and careers. Our programs for both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, guide students from basic to specialized knowledge,” he said, indicating the NEP may not significantly impact the trajectory of these language studies at the higher level.
When asked about possible impact on teachers, he refused to comment stating “It’s premature to give an opinion. Let’s wait and watch.”
Similarly, Program Director of MA French at GU Irene Silveira asserted that demand for French remains strong. “We welcome students without prior exposure to French. We impart them with added language build-up. People are interested in learning French,” she stated. Students have pursued higher studies and career opportunities abroad including in France.
Silveira, who also mentors PhD candidates in French studies, revealed plans to reintroduce certificate and diploma courses shortly.
