Question NW2525 to the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
01 December 2021 - NW2525
Schreiber, Dr LA to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
(1)Whether, with reference to the statement published in the Government Gazette No. 1160 of 30 October 2020, pertaining to the Language Policy Framework for Public Higher Education Institutions Determined in Terms of Section 27(2) of the Higher Education Act, Act 101 of 1997 as amended, the final policy framework signed into law by him on 9 August 2020 is being reviewed as indicated in his statement of 1 November 2021; if not, (a) what is the position in this regard and (b)(i) what are the reasons he is still considering universities and other stakeholders’ proposals and inputs and (ii) on what statutory grounds does he rely in this regard; if so, (i) what are the reasons he said that (aa) the final policy framework’s proposals are still being discussed by universities and other stakeholders and (bb) he will look at the proposals when he has already signed the final policy into law on 9 August 2020, (ii) on what statutory grounds did he rely to (aa) annul the final policy framework signed into law on 9 August 2020 and (bb) reopen the period for public participation on the reviewed policy framework and (iii) by what date is it envisaged that the reviewed policy framework will be finalised; (2) whether the final policy framework will be amended to include Afrikaans, Khoi and San languages in its definition of indigenous languages before it is set to take effect on 1 January 2022; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. The only aspect of the Language Policy Framework for Public Higher Education Institutions, published on 30 October 2020, that is being legally consulted upon is the definition of "indigenous languages". My Department has sought legal opinion on this matter. I have indicated before that a technical matter such as a definition should not detract from the progressive character of the policy framework, which essentially seeks to create a just and inclusive higher education sector where all our languages are duly recognised and given space to develop in line with the prescripts of the Constitution of the Republic.
2. The above answers the next question, which is, whether the amendment will include languages that are perceived to be excluded in the policy framework. In my other response to this same question I have indicated that the Policy Framework affirms all South African languages, official and non-official. Specific reference is made in the framework to the importance of developing Khoi, Nama and San languages which remain largely neglected across the education system. The Framework has been positively received by universities and they are looking forward to its implementation starting from next year.