There is an urgent need to train teachers in the latest English language-teaching approaches and methodologies to enhance proficiency of the learners. Speakers emphasised this at the inaugural session of two-day seminar on 'English and Empowerment in the Developing World' organised by the Aga Khan University, here on Saturday.
Global trends in education, technology and business suggest that English as a world language will play a significant role in the years to come, and the rapid spread of English has serious implication for all developing countries of the world, including Pakistan. Employees in any type of organisation need to be empowered through training and support to make independent decision for quality production, the teachers should not be left behind, they said.
AKU President Firoz Rasul, on the occasion said that the theme of the seminar was relevant in present multi-lingual and multi-cultural societies where the learning and teaching of an international language such as English was imperative for various reasons.
"The importance of English cannot be over-emphasised as it has now become one of the few international languages in which nations across the world impart higher education and conduct business," he said.
In her keynote address, Dr Edith M Esch said that it is impossible to talk about the teaching of English and empowerment without looking the purpose of English education and the ability of learners to take on responsibility for their own learning.
The development of pedagogy requires that teachers start reflecting on their own classroom practices, including assessment practices, she said. Marcus Gilbert, Director British Council and Dr David Taylor, the acting provost, AKU were also present on the occasion.