Kathmandu

British Council calls for language-responsive education systems

KATHMANDU, MAY 16 The British Council has launched a new global position paper calling for language-responsive education systems that reflect learners' linguistic realities and promote inclusive and equitable education. The paper outlines the organisation's updated approach to language policy in education, emphasising that there is no single model for language instruction suitable for all countries. It highlights that education systems must adopt context-sensitive and evidence-based policies, taking into account social, cultural, political and economic conditions. According to the paper, language-responsive education systems integrate language considerations across policy, curriculum, teaching practices, learning materials, assessment and teacher training. It further notes that while English continues to play a major global role, effective learning depends on strong support systems, including trained teachers, appropriate materials and language-sensitive assessment frameworks. The position paper is based on a global literature review examining multilingual education systems and highlights disparities in learning outcomes linked to teacher capacity and policy implementation. British Council officials said poorly supported transitions to English-medium education can negatively affect learning outcomes, stressing the need for long-term planning and investment. The organisation said the new framework aims to support policymakers and education stakeholders in designing inclusive education systems that improve learning outcomes and expand opportunities for students worldwide.