The Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts, and Culture, Dino Ballotti, has said the ministry is stepping up efforts to protect Namibia's indigenous languages.
He says these languages are not just a way of speaking but a key part of who we are and that the ministry is working to keep them alive, promote their use, and help them grow, especially among younger generations.
Ballotti was responding to questions posed by LPM's MP, Eneas Emvula, who claimed that there is still foreseeable evidence of political and institutional bias, which undermines the study, teaching, and preservation of Khoekhoegowab.
He emphasised that the ministry is working together with institutional bodies to prevent the deterioration of accredited indigenous courses, such as Khoekhoegowab.
"The ministry is currently conducting an active evaluation of the implementation of indigenous language programmes in tertiary institutions. We are collaborating with regulatory and accrediting bodies, including the NQA and the NCHE, to enhance oversight mechanisms that prevent the unilateral discontinuation or downgrading of accredited indigenous language courses, including Khoekhoegowab."
Ballotti also emphasised that the ministry intends to carry out a language equity analysis in all higher education institutions.
"The ministry intends to implement a language equity audit in all higher educational institutions in order to guarantee equitable resource allocation and institutional support for indigenous languages. The audit will evaluate compliance with the national language policy, identify systemic disparities, and suggest corrective measures with a particular emphasis on Khoekhoegowab and other languages spoken by indigenous minorities."
The deputy minister also addressed allegations around the Institute for Open Learning and the International University of Management (IUM) regarding the teaching of Khoekhoegowab.
"The ministry has urged IUM to explore alternative strategies for the maintenance of the programme, such as enhancing outreach efforts to attract a greater number of students and implementing part-time delivery modules. It is crucial to emphasise that IOL has never discontinued qualifications in mother-tongue instruction, specifically Khoekhoegowab, despite public concern. Khoekhoegowab has consistently been incorporated into their curriculum with diplomas in junior primary education and early childhood programmes as per IOL feedback to the ministry."
Ballotti added that the University of Namibia has Khoekhoegowab as a main language, and this year, they have enrolled about seven undergraduates and have a total of 60 fourth-year students.
He also emphasised that UNAM continues to encourage students' enrolment in indigenous courses through various initiatives.
Ballotti emphasised that the ministry will ensure equitable treatment and funding for all language programs, including collaborating with stakeholders to prevent discriminatory practices.