THE lingering effects of colonial rule can still be felt in Pakistan in the form of social confusion and a plethora of inferiority complexes that continue to plague us. Ours is one of the many countries where English is considered a status symbol. People with a good command over spoken English are widely perceived to be better communicators compared to those who are well-versed in the national or several regional languages of the country.

Investing in the development of these languages is considered backwards, when it actually opens up the mind to other forms of expression as well. How can someone speak eloquently in a foreign language unless they are also proficient in their own language?

This automatic elevation of English-speaking people from among our midst has a far-reaching impact in various fields where communication skills are required, such as teaching, business, law and the corporate world. But these societal perceptions have been gradually cemented by our discriminatory education policies.

Most of the universities and colleges across the country offer courses related to communication only in the English language. Subjects such as business communications, creative writing and academic writing are taught mostly in English, with Urdu being a crutch to explain difficult areas within the domain of such subjects.

Learning English language and learning communication skills are two entirely different things and should not be confused with one another. Language is the vehicle of communication, while good communication skills dress up our thoughts so they seem more appealing to the audience.

Therefore, English language must be taught separately through literature, and communication skills should be taught to those who have a command over any language. If we continue with our present policies, it would keep fuelling confusion and a sense of inadequacy among the public.

Muhammad Wasif Lali
Lahore

Published in Dawn, June 1st, 2022