Learn foreign languages, Nigerians told

Speaking on the need for multi-lingual competence at the workshop organized by International Languages Translations Interpretations and Teachings (ILATIT) in collaboration with the GOETHE INSTUT, Nigeria, German Cultural Centre, held at the Kano Liaison office, a consultant on global peace, Nuhu A. Atta said understanding foreign languages is imperative in all sphere of human endeavour. […]

Speaking on the need for multi-lingual competence at the workshop organized by International Languages Translations Interpretations and Teachings (ILATIT) in collaboration with the GOETHE INSTUT, Nigeria, German Cultural Centre, held at the Kano Liaison office, a consultant on global peace, Nuhu A. Atta said understanding foreign languages is imperative in all sphere of human endeavour.

Atta said because globalization has made the world a global village, Nigerians need to know more than one foreign language to make them relevant in the global world. “Knowing foreign language is necessary in our socio-political and business life because of the impact of globalization. One cannot interact effectively with others if he is ignorant of their language.”

He added that nations that were able to subdue other nations were able to do so by mastering the languages of the subdued nations together with their culture. He therefore asked government to come out with policies that would make Nigerians learn more foreign languages.

Another speaker, Dr Muhammad Sadisu Muhammad asked the Federal Government to make it mandatory on paramilitary officers to learn at least two foreign languages to make them discharge their duties effectively.

The coordinator of ILATIT, Mr Aime Tchad, who spoke on the aim of the workshop, said it was to create awareness on the importance, relevance and prospect of learning international languages.