Question NW2822 to the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
11 January 2022 - NW2822
Schreiber, Dr LA to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
(1). What are the reasons that he has ignored the requests for a meeting from the DAK Netwerk, an organisation dedicated to empowering previously disadvantaged Afrikaans-speakers, for over four months; (2). whether he will commit to hold an urgent meeting with the DAK Netwerk; if not, why not, if so, on what date; (3). what is his response to the arguments held by DAK Netwerk that Afrikaans should be recognised as an indigenous language in the Language Policy Framework for Higher Education? NW3342E
Reply:
(1). It is not correct that I have ignored a request for a meeting with the DAK Netwerk. I responded to the constructive submission made by DAK Netwerk and did not decline a meeting with them.
(2). My office is always open to engage on this and all other matters related to the betterment of our higher education system. So, certainly I am available to meet with the DAK Netwerk or any other group for a constructive discussion of these matters.
(3). I responded to the submission that was made by DAK Netwerk. I found it very constructive in its engagement on the issue of Afrikaans. I also instructed officials in my Department to obtain legal advice on the definition of indigenous languages in the Language Policy Framework for Higher Education.