Languages in schools
ACT Greens MLA Deb Foskey is calling for a stronger commitment to language learning in the ACT.
"The lively presence of the National Multicultural Festival paints Canberra as a city that celebrates the value of diversity in our community" Dr Foskey said today.
"But the drift away from languages in our schools suggests that while we are happy to enjoy food, drink and entertainment from around the world we're unable to really connect with people we think are not like us."
"This is year is the United Nations Year of Languages. I am moving a motion in the Assembly today calling on the ACT Government to substantially increase its investment in effective language teaching in schools."
"It is time to take a more open approach to our place with others in the world."
"Whoever we are, we need to engage with and learn from other languages and cultures. Being able to speak another language is one of the best ways to help children to be and think differently. Thatâ??s why learning languages at school is so important."
"The ACT's new curriculum framework doesn't make that commitment to our children. The motion I am moving in the Assembly today asks the ACT Government to do so" Dr Foskey said.
