This strategic engagement aimed to strengthen the university's commitment to multilingualism and inclusive education. The gathering was part of UMP's ongoing efforts to implement its Language Policy Implementation Plan, which promotes the use and development of Indigenous languages in academic, administrative, and community contexts.
The Advisory Board members and DHET officials collaborated with members of the Language Implementation Plan Task Team to review progress, share insights, and explore strategies for embedding multilingual practices across the institution.
The event featured presentations on recent language-focused initiatives, including goal areas such as research, teaching and learning, engagement and communication, and administration.
UMP Director of Academic Support Services Division, Dr Marinkie Madiope, further explained that the gathering provided a platform for dialogue on national language policy priorities and the role of universities in preserving linguistic heritage while promoting academic excellence.
“Hosting this high-level engagement reaffirms UMP’s commitment to innovation in language policy and its dedication to fostering a learning environment that reflects South Africa's rich linguistic and cultural diversity,” said Dr Madiope.
The National Language Advisory Board and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) praised UMP for its proactive stance. They expressed trust in the university's leadership to drive significant language transformation within the higher education sector.
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