Using of words cut short through texting and social media has become the norm - AG

Over a number of years, the standard and quality of the English language in Fiji has become poor.

This was highlighted by the Attorney General and Minister for Education Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum while launching the Speak In English For Success Programme and officiating at the Prefects Induction Ceremony at Gospel High School.

He says the English language is a very fundamental tool for studies and also for students who get out into the workforce.

Sayed-Khaiyum says in Fiji, because of the colonial history, the English language is the medium of teaching.

He says when people use social media or texting, they use all sorts of English where they cut words short and this has become the norm.

Sayed-Khaiyum says that the launching of the Speak In English For Success Programme will help lift the standard of English.

Gospel High School’s Head of Department for English, Rusila Namulo says that the ‘Speak In English For Success’ program has been specifically designed to improve the level of English for students.

Meanwhile, the Education Minister has also stressed that people should be mindful of the things that come on social media, as it is good but can also be a negative tool.