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The University of the Free State (UFS) has launched the African Languages, Advancing Multilingualism booklet, a new publication showcasing the university’s commitment to promoting multilingualism, advancing indigenous African languages, and fostering an inclusive academic environment.

Compiled by the Department of African Languages, the booklet highlights multilingual initiatives, research, teaching and learning activities, and community engagement projects taking place across the university's three campuses. It also demonstrates how the UFS Language Policy is being implemented to promote the meaningful use of Sesotho, isiZulu, Afrikaans, and English in higher education.

A practical expression of the UFS Language Policy

According to Dr Nyefolo Malete, Senior Lecturer in the Department of African Languages, the publication was developed in response to the historical marginalisation of African languages in knowledge production and higher education.

"In this era of decolonisation, the plight of African languages, which have been carefully and systematically alienated and disregarded as languages of science and epistemology, should be addressed," he said.

Dr Malete explained that while many universities have adopted language policies, implementation often remains a challenge. The booklet serves as a practical expression of the UFS's vision of a transformed, multilingual institution where indigenous languages are recognised as valuable sources of knowledge and drivers of academic excellence.

Organised around four key themes - institutional contributions to language promotion, community engagement and engaged scholarship, research, and teaching and learning – the publication provides a comprehensive overview of the university's efforts to strengthen African languages while fostering intercultural understanding and engagement. 

Reflecting the principles of the UFS Language Policy Framework, the booklet was developed through collaboration across the institution, demonstrating the importance of partnerships in advancing multilingualism.

"The multilingual promotion activities highlighted in this booklet affirm the University of the Free State's commitment to fostering an inclusive, culturally grounded, and academically empowering environment for all members of its community," said Dr Malete.

Celebrating multilingualism and transformation

Designed for students, staff, alumni, prospective students, and external stakeholders, the booklet also recognises the valuable contribution of student cultural associations in promoting unity, cultural exchange, and social cohesion across the university community.

Beyond documenting existing initiatives, the publication seeks to reshape perceptions of African languages by demonstrating their growing role in scholarship, research, innovation, and professional disciplines. According to Dr Malete, this contributes meaningfully to broader conversations on language development and the decolonisation of higher education.

"The booklet embodies the decolonial vision of the University of the Free State by demonstrating that African languages are not merely cultural artefacts to be preserved, but dynamic vehicles of knowledge production, scholarship, innovation, and social transformation," he said.

He added that the long-term vision is to inspire greater participation in multilingual initiatives at the UFS while encouraging other higher education institutions to recognise indigenous African languages as powerful instruments for knowledge creation, academic success, and sustainable development.

  Read the African Languages, Advancing Multilingualism booklet