ERIC Number: EJ1068900
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013
Pages: 7
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2231-3338
EISSN: N/A
The Role of Language in National Re-Branding: A Sociolinguistic Perspective
Olaoye, Anthony Ayodele
Journal on English Language Teaching, v3 n3 p41-47 Jul-Sep 2013
Language, whether indigenous or foreign, is a marker of identity. The language that a man speaks, the names he bears, the songs he sings, the tribal marks on his cheeks, his country's national anthem, coat of arms and national flags are symbols of personal and national identity. Language education policy, which shapes a man's global and local view and perspective, is instrumental in any national rebranding project. The author posits that there is a correlation between indigenous language and national rebranding project. Language is the shaper of ideas, and dissects nature along lines laid down by our language. In support of this theory of cultural relativism and linguistic determinism, the author posits that the rebranding of a nation can only be achieved through a rebranded language policy, and a well planned and implemented multi-lingual education system. Transformation agenda, in any nation, is best accomplished through the utilization of indigenous languages and literature. The author believes that the battered image of Nigerians and Nigeria can be redeemed by indigenous literary works which are rebuttals of the obnoxious negative branding of Nigerians. National rebranding has the objective of re-orientating Nigerians to imbibe a new spirit of patriotism, a new spirit of abhorring or shunning corruption and following the rule of law. The author has proved that the role of Mother Tongue, and andragogical or political education can rebrand Nigeria. The Federal, State and Local Governments therefore have a role to play. These change agents must also work hand-in-hand with parents, traditional rulers, opinion leaders, religious leaders and educational institutions for an effective rebranding enterprise.
Descriptors: Language Role, Language Planning, Educational Policy, Native Language, Foreign Countries, Marketing, Developing Nations, Nationalism, Reputation, Government Role, Civil Rights, Multilingualism, English, Global Approach, Official Languages, Change Agents
i-manager Publications. 3-343 Hill View, Town Railway Nagar, Nagercoil 629001, Tamil Nadu, India. Tel: +91-4652-276675; e-mail: info@imanagerpublications.com; Web site: http://www.imanagerpublications.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Nigeria
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A