Central to the policy is a commitment to advancing isiXhosa as a scientific language – one that can function as a medium of instruction and a language of scholarship.
Underpinned by principles of epistemic access, the re-intellectualisation of isiXhosa, and the recognition of all languages as sources of knowledge, the policy foregrounds multilingualism as a critical enabler of student success and inclusive institutional culture.
The policy launch concludes the second annual Multilingualism Indaba that the University, in partnership with Rhodes University, is hosting this week. The Indaba brings together scholars, practitioners and students to explore the intersections of language, knowledge and transformation in higher education.
Held under the theme “Intersections of Knowledge: Language, Multilingualism(s), and Language Policy,” the Indaba – which started on 25 March – has at its heart a bold reimagining of language as central to epistemic access, institutional culture, and knowledge production in the Global South.
The Indaba and policy launch underscores the University’s commitment to advancing multilingualism as a transformative force in higher education – one that not only enhances learning and teaching, but also affirms the intellectual value of African languages and identities.