St Lucia Government to Introduce Kwéyòl Language in Schools

Pilot Programme to Begin in 15 Institutions in 2024/25 Academic Year

The St Lucia government has announced that a pilot programme geared towards the teaching of the indigenous Kwéyòl language or Creole in schools will begin in 15 institutions during the 2024/25 academic year.

Background and Timeline

A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister said that the push to include the indigenous Kwéyòl language in the school curriculum spans four decades and that on Emancipation Day in August 2022 Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre had announced the intention of the government to have Kwéyòl as part of the school curriculum.

The statement said that Education Minister Shawn Edward has since confirmed that the groundbreaking St Lucia Kwéyòl Curriculum Pilot Programme will officially be rolled out.

About Kwéyòl Language

Kwéyòl is a variety of Antillean Creole, and like other varieties spoken in the Caribbean, it combines the syntax of African language origins and a Latin-based vocabulary as shared by the French.

Like its similar Dominican counterpart, some words are derived from English, French and African languages.

However, the St Lucian Kwéyòl is a French-based creole language that is widely spoken.

Though it is not an official language, the government and media houses present information in Kwéyòl alongside English.

Conclusion

The introduction of Kwéyòl language in schools is a significant step towards preserving the country’s heritage and promoting cultural diversity. The government’s commitment to teaching Kwéyòl in schools is a testament to its dedication to preserving the country’s unique identity.