Universal language important

23 April 2007 - 02:00
By unknown

I would like to share my views on the issue of language.

I would like to share my views on the issue of language.

It is not possible to know and to understand all 52 international languages. But as members of the human race, it is imperative to understand each other.

It is, therefore, important that we have a single language in which to communicate.

That does not mean that such a language is more important than others. All languages are important and useful.

Let me use the people of Limpopo as an example. There are three ethnic groups in the province and very few of them know and understand one another's language.

I am not saying that English should be the universal language. Any language will do, as long as everyone understands it.

I am using English to write this letter because all of you who read Sowetan understand it.

Those who tour the country and world would find it difficult to communicate if they do not know a language known by most other people.

One cannot stop at learning one's mother tongue. We must know the language of the business world.

Whether we like it or not, job seekers must know and understand English. Many have the knowledge and skills, but lose opportunities because they cannot communicate.

M H Ramalepe, Turfloop