Theoretical and Practical Teaching of National Languages and Cultures and the Perpetuation of Living Together

Abstract

Living together, the watchword for the Cameroon of tomorrow is closely linked to national languages. This article, therefore, addresses this theme. Since the introduction of national languages and cultures into school curricula under Law No. 98/004 of April 14, 1998, the Cameroonian government has advocated a new policy encouraging harmonious coexistence among the national languages across the country. Language, as the primary foundation of an individual's personality and cultural identity, is considered an indispensable instrument and medium for expressing thoughts, traditions, beliefs, arts, habits, and customs. In short, it represents all that remains when everything else has been lost. When a society accepts, without discrimination, the languages (mother tongues) that form an integral part of its development, it can address, in a concerted manner, the problems undermining its existence and hindering its growth. Unfortunately, members of society are increasingly neglecting their linguistic and cultural heritage in favor of modernism and foreign languages, which are not as conducive to their development as one might hope. Faced with this challenge, there is an urgent need to establish a teaching method that serves as a bridge between languages, cultures, and the concept of living together. To achieve this, we aim to sufficiently equip learners, teachers, and community members to promote their holistic development and ensure seamless integration without barriers. In a context marked by linguistic diversity, we are exploring the feasibility of fostering sustainable peace through practical approaches to linguistic knowledge in educational institutions. In this vein, we will clarify key concepts, analyze the impacts, and examine limitations, ultimately contributing to the development of a productive framework for living together.