Why Language Matters

I traveled to Kenya and didn't understand what the locals wanted to tell me. In fact, I tried, but the language barrier made me feel like I was powerless. Then, a person with English words came out of his mouth, and that day, I realized the power of language. 

Knowledge is power, and language is knowledge. We speak in the flow of language to turn feelings and many more things inside a mind or heart into reality. In fact, it's not hard to realize the connection between power and language. It is about access, inclusion, and opportunity. If language didn't exist, the entire world would go dumb and deaf. 

Language as Access:

If we talk about English, then it has become the world's lingua franca, dominating every field of the world, from education technology to business and travel to many more. In fact, English was considered a luxury for those who knew how to speak in English, though right now it is not only a luxury but also necessary to unlock many accesses, especially to quality education, getting jobs, and working through an international dialogue. 

It is now a daydream for those who can't understand and speak English and expect to get opportunities. Every job posting requires fluent English, especially for multinational corporations that will ask for proficiency in English. All the mediums of instruction in every university are in English; scientific research, online courses, and everything you name requires English proficiency. Those who learn it open a whole new world where they can compete, especially chasing their dreams in the global job market and connecting with people worldwide. 

Education and Language Barrier:

Education is all about language. The biggest challenge for education lies in language, especially for non-English-speaking countries. Many schools in such countries where English is not the first language still use English as the only medium in schools and other educational institutions. Though it creates a language barrier, it doesn't undermine students' intelligence but limits their ability to understand information. 

Furthermore, it is known that learning something in a language that is not your first language feels like running a race with weights on your feet. The struggle to learn math, science, or history is not because a student lacks ability but because they cannot proceed with something thoroughly, even though that creates a huge challenge for teachers. At the end of the day, students fall behind, and the education disadvantage because of the lack of the English language continues to grow. 

A School in Kenya

I traveled to Kenya, where there were small schools for local people, where the resources were just hand-to-mouth, and there was almost no exposure to English. A group of students gathered around a teacher, and they introduced them to their first English words. There was no fancy technology, an old blackboard and chalk, a few English textbooks, and a curious audience. 

At first, it was a challenge for children to perceive; they were reluctant to speak and, in fact, were unsure what they would say. However, they gain confidence through games, songs, and simple conversations over time. It was a huge breakthrough day by day. They gained confidence, they weren't reluctant to greet English-speaking visitors, they urged them to create basic sentences, and the best part was they were helping each other learn. 

All this time, their progress was not more than a miracle. Their participation increased in class, including their comprehension, and they always found it fun and joyful learning English afterward. Introducing English gave them more than just a few words; it gave them confidence and a sense of belonging that made them different. 

Language Builds Confidence:

Language has a power that boosts confidence. Children, especially, gain the ability to communicate and be heard. They should start asking questions, always seek clarification, and express thoughts and emotions. In fact, they will not sit quietly at the back of a class anymore; in short, they will not be afraid of making mistakes but instead will participate in everything they find curious to find out. 

The confidence not only limits them to classrooms but also beyond. It makes them interact with other people. It makes them independent. In fact, learning a new language empowers you and gives you new opportunities in work, education, or any other social setting without having a fear in your heart about it. 

Economic & Social Opportunity

Learning English goes beyond classrooms; it opens many opportunities, especially for tourism, business technology, and higher education careers. Many international industries require English proficiency for employment. In fact, knowing English is a skill that is demanded at every opportunity and in every sector worldwide. 

English is a deciding factor for a better future in every developing country. It creates a difference between jobs in the local market and employment with multinational companies. In fact, it is an opportunity to secure a better future. 

Conclusion

Language is more than just saying words; it is an opportunity to delve into a world entirely different from yours. It gives you education, confidence, and even economic opportunities. A single English lesson in a rural classroom in Kenya made a difference, and its impact will last a lifetime. 

Our programs, which bring language education to local non-English-speaking countries, do play a role. By providing children with the tools to communicate, we give them opportunities to build a better future for themselves and for inspiring generations after them. 

When a kid said hello in Kenya, it made me think it was not just a greeting; it was the beginning of something great, and I wondered how this one word would change his future.