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Language planning for sustainable development

30 0
08.01.2025

PAKISTAN, a multilingual nation, hosts over 70 languages, including Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, Balochi, Saraiki and Urdu, alongside minority languages. English dominates higher education, administration and international communication, offering socio-economic mobility but marginalizing regional languages. This linguistic imbalance exacerbates educational and economic disparities while threatening cultural diversity.

Effective language planning is vital for inclusivity and equity. Policies promoting mother-tongue education enhance comprehension and academic success. Research shows that children learning in their native language excel academically, with better literacy and numeracy outcomes. Preserving endangered languages through digital archives and promoting regional literature, poetry and folklore enrich cultural heritage. Additionally, vocational training in regional languages boosts employability, while English proficiency programs bridge global competitiveness........

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