ENGLISH
LANGUAGE DAY 23rd April, 2015
Mahatma Gandhi had said, “English
is a language of international commerce, it is the language of diplomacy and it
contains many a rich literary treasure; it gives us an introduction to western
thought and culture.”
Today is English Language Day and
also commemorates William Shakespeare’s birth anniversary.
The appropriate use of language and
communication is the basis for success in virtually every domain of human
activity, from politics, to business, to all areas of work, even to personal
and family life. There are uncountable languages in this world. Every country
has its own national language. There are different local languages spoken and
understood by people in different regions.
English is by far the world’s most
important language in terms of international business and trade, intellectual
activity, technological and scientific advances, social trends, and popular
culture.
English language is the dominant
language of international communication and with increasing globalisation, it
is important to have a refined understanding of the nature and structure of
English and how we communicate with each other. An understanding of the various
dimensions of language and communication will give you the ability to
communicate more effectively in this complex, globalised world.
English is the chief language in
the Indian education system today. All the prestigious schools and colleges use
English as their medium of instruction. Today, careers in the field of science
and technology, business and commerce require a good knowledge of English. Most
of the works in the field of space, nuclear technology, medicine etc. are
available only in English. The vocabulary and terminology used in these are
available in English. Therefore, English has become a passport of getting a
good job not only in India but also abroad in almost all fields.
Being fluent in a second language
clearly demonstrates a powerful brain and reflects someone who has put in the
huge amount of time, resources and commitment needed to master another
language. No matter what combination of languages you speak, adding English to
your CV will be particularly useful. English is an incredibly useful language
to learn because so many countries speak it. English skills are just as
desirable to employers in your own country as they are to employers in
English-speaking countries.
English is widely regarded as the
language of higher education. Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard and MIT are just a few
of the famous universities that occupy the lofty heights of the top of the
world education league tables, and you’ll need to speak English fluently for
access to any of these, as they’re all English-speaking.
Did you know that 55% of the
world’s webpages are written in English? Knowledge of English therefore allows
you to tap into far more of the world’s intellectual resources.
Generally, English is used among
Indians as a ‘link’ language and it is the first language for many
well-educated Indians. It is also the second language for many who speak more
than one language in India. The English language is a tie that helps bind the
many segments of our society together. Also, it is a linguistic bridge between
the major countries of the world and India.
English has special national status in India. It has a special place in the parliament, judiciary, broadcasting, journalism, and in the education system. The language permeates daily life. It is unavoidable and is always expected, especially in the cities.
A positive attitude to English as a
national language is essential to the integration of people into Indian
society. Using English you will become a citizen of the world almost naturally.
India is, without a doubt, committed to English as a national language. The
impact of English is not only continuing but increasing.
When he said that “Language is not
a genetic gift, it is a social gift” Nelson Mandela was of the opinion that “Learning
a new language is becoming a member of the club -the community of speakers of
that language.”
Our
dear students must try to understand and appreciate the importance and status of English
Language and strive to be able to use it flawlessly.
A VERY HAPPY ENGLISH LANGUAGE DAY
