North West Department of Education Successfully Launches Mother Tongue-based Bilingual Education (MTbBE) Program

The North West Department of Education proudly launched its groundbreaking Mother Tongue-based Bilingual Education (MTbBE) program today, Tuesday 05 November 2024, at the Seasons Conference Centre in Mahikeng.

The launch signifies a historic milestone in the province’s education system, as Grade 4 learners in the North West will now receive instruction in Setswana for Mathematics, Natural Science, and Technology subjects, strengthening comprehension and participation among young learners.

The MTbBE program is part of the Department of Basic Education’s broader efforts to promote linguistic diversity and improve learner outcomes by facilitating learning in a language that resonates with students’ cultural identities.

Research indicates that mother tongue instruction significantly enhances cognitive development and conceptual understanding, particularly in complex subjects like Mathematics and Science. By adopting Setswana as a medium of instruction, the Department aims to ensure inclusivity and make learning more accessible for primary school learners.

The launch gathered a diverse array of education stakeholders, including representatives from teacher unions, the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB), the National Education Trust, the South African Lexicography Unit, North West University as well as local government leaders such as the Executive Mayor of Mahikeng Local Municipality, Cllr Tshepiso Mphehlo. The education team from the National Department of Basic Education (DBE) was also in attendance, reinforcing the national support for this transformative initiative.

Key partners and stakeholders including the Federation of Governing Bodies of South African Schools (FEDSAS), South African Principals’ Association (SAPA), and Professional Educators’ Union (PEU), rendered messages of support lauding the Department’s commitment to elevating the standard of education through linguistic inclusivity.

Addressing attendees, North West MEC for Education Viola Motsumi emphasized the importance of this program in advancing equitable education and fostering a sense of belonging within the classroom.

“Today, we celebrate not only the introduction of Setswana as a medium of instruction for our Grade 4 learners in our schools but also a step forward in empowering our learners through their cultural heritage. The MTbBE program will bridge the language gap in critical subjects, enabling our learners to grasp complex concepts with greater ease and confidence. This is not just about education; it’s about nurturing a generation that feels seen, valued and equipped for the future. I commend all our partners and stakeholders for their invaluable support and commitment to making this vision a reality”, expresses Motsumi.

The North West Department of Education extends its gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the MTbBE launch. The Department looks forward to the positive impact this program will have on learner engagement and academic success, marking a new era of inclusive and effective education in the province as it will gradually be implemented in all grades.

For more information please contact
Mphata Molokwane
Departmental Spokesperson
082 979 3638
Or
Bayanda Zenzile
Media Liaison Officer
082 307 6852
Or
Elias Malindi
Acting Head of Communications
072 892 8399

Author: tkhechane