Innovation in Language Learning

This communication advocates for the development of textbooks in national languages prior to implementing Multilingual Education in Cameroon. Studies by different scholars on the language of education within the African contexts, have concluded on the hyper-abundant use of western languages, despite the multilingual backgrounds of most African communities. The challenges or the benefits of mother tongue use in the primarily years of education have also been elaborated by scholars as well as UNESCO. That notwithstanding, a quick review of the national textbooks’ list for the past decade shows little input for national languages. Besides, the expertise available for the production of textbooks doesn’t include the particularities of the national languages. This limits the availability of resources as well as it perpetrates poor quality education in African contexts. This communication is not about throwing an anathema on the use of western languages, but rather, initiates reflections on a whole range of proposals towards the Government and Education partners to think along with the African publishers, the possibility of developing appropriate textbooks in African Languages, that suit the international standards.

Keywords: Textbook, Publishing, Mother Tongue, Multilingual Education