MSU set to publish science textbooks in local lang...

MSU set to publish science textbooks in local languages

Zim Now Writer

Government has unveiled US$174 000 to The Midlands State University has received US$174 000 to fund the publication of science literature and textbooks in local languages, the Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development Professor Amon Murwira has said.

Murwira disclosed this at the Professor Ngwabi Bhebe Testimonial Conference at the main campus on Friday last week.

Professor Bhebhe is the institution’s former Vice Chancellor.

Prof Murwira said the Strategic Literature Development programme expects some publications by year-end.

“We feel guilty for understanding or speaking foreign languages. Yes, we learn other languages to communicate, but we should be pushing our local languages if we are to develop. You are a crammer and pretender if you cannot teach science in your language as a lecturer.

“Government has approved a budget allocation of US$174 000 for the Strategic Literature Development project for science textbooks and literature written and published using indigenous languages by MSU.

“Look at the Chinese people. They complete science syllabi in their language, learn using their language, have rockets, bullet trains, and state-of-the-art ships, and are developing their country. We want to do the same. In Russia, it is the same. They are learning sciences using their language,” he said.

Academics who attended the event gave presentations on the academic work of Prof Bhebhe.

Zimbabwe has 16 official languages, Shona, Kalanga, Shangani, Ndebele, Chewa, English, Chibarwe, Nambiya, Sotho, Tswana, Tonga, Venda, Khoisan, Xhosa as well as Sign Language.