Great Zimbabwe University veteran Xitsonga lecturer, Dr Steyn Khensani Madlome has called on government to consider and enforce effective teaching of Xitsonga language in areas where the language is dominant. Speaking in an interview with Hevoi FM News Madlome said that it is mind boggling to realise that this language is heavily negated.
“We have areas where this language is widely spoken. You surprisingly find pupils being taught a language that is contrary to their culture, norms and values. For what reason. We have long since told the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to redress this anomaly but to no avail.” Said Madlome.
Contacted for comment, Masvingo Provincial Education Director, Shylet Mhike said that there are no teachers for this language, adding that the qualified ones were reportedly leaving country for South Africa.
Xitsonga, popularly known as Xangani is spoken in Chiredzi and Mwenezi districts more often. The late chief Tshovani, Hlaisi Mudawu died a bitter man after having persistently made efforts to push for the teaching of this language in the area but to no avail.
519