With yesterday's brief dedicated to the turns of phrase that escape logical explanation, language is again today's talking point as the Flemish Minister of Education caused a stir by blocking proposals for university courses that would run purely in English. The rejection came as a shock to institutions used to government approval for courses that respond to economic exigencies.
Flanders has a number of internationally-recognised universities and understands the real value of training not only regional residents but also attracting students from overseas. Ever eager to position itself at the centre of growing sectors that can ensure long-term prosperity, Flemish authorities recognise the need for education to be forward-thinking.
Undeniably, part of the region's lure to investors is the language capabilities of residents. Flanders looks beyond its immediate Dutch neighbours for business partners and the general proficiency in English makes this so much easier. In response to this reality, universities had come up with a number of English-only courses – often technical – that they believed would produce a workforce that can compete in global job markets and also would appeal to participants from elsewhere.
With the ministerial seal of approval normally a final formality, they were surprised when their proposals were met with a resounding rejection. Could this be another example of the region's politicians harbouring a cultural conservatism? The government requirement for equivalent courses to be offered in Dutch does have an air of protectionism and frustrated rectors put forward a persuasive case that the Dutch programmes have dwindling applicants and create a great amount more work for professors.
Are the region's educators victims of political ideals? Whilst it might appear that ministers are resisting the tide of the times, they also make an argument that, though more emotional, is nonetheless compelling. In the words of the education minister: "It took a very long time for Dutch to be accepted as a fully-fledged language of education, a scientific language, an academic language. We mustn't throw that away now."
As I explained yesterday, linguistic plurality brings a refreshing variety and depth that make possible experiences and learning opportunities that would be limited by a homogenous lingua franca. Isn't there a rather noble charm in championing the pillars that preserve local identity? How much effort can we reasonably expend in assuring a language's longevity?
Let @Orlando_tbt know.
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