English Proficiency promotes strong language skills

27th November 2018

Sarah Haffenden

– by Noluthando Makhaza

English is without a doubt perceived as the universal language. It is the world’s second largest native language, the official language in 70 countries and 27 sovereign entities, and English-speaking countries are also responsible for about 40% of the world’s total Gross National Product. Additionally, English is one of the most used languages in business, government, commercial and almost any type of official transaction internationally. Therefore, in a multiracial and multicultural environment like UKZN and many other organisations in South Africa, the ability to communicate in English is a necessity. A good knowledge of English allows employees to communicate effectively with local and international clients, and build strong and lasting business relationships. In order to assist individuals communicate more effectively with clients and colleagues, UKZN Extended Learning is currently hosting a series of English Proficiency classes where UKZN staff members and the public attend twice a week for 3 hours, from October to December.

This programme is designed to assist delegates improve their knowledge and practical use of the English language, with a focus on effective spoken and written proficiency in English as a medium used in formal business as well as academic research. Facilitating on this impactful, yet intriguing programme, Roy Dace, who is also the coordinator of the Language Centre has been actively involved in teaching and programme development for the past 40 years. Roy holds BA Hons (Witwatersrand), Diploma in General Linguistics (Edinburgh), and MA (TESOL) (Syracuse) qualifications.

The key areas of focus include Introduction to English; Conversational English; Reading and Writing English and Spoken English. These focal areas are strategically centred on the English culture, heritage, context, themes and basic phrases, written text and pronunciation, and experiential themes. The programme also includes visits to sites and famous landmarks in KZN as well as the opportunity to practice newly acquired skills.

Language is the most important part of our being and strong language skills are a necessity that will promote a lifetime of effective communication. To learn more about our 2019 intake, please click here.