ABSTRACT
This chapter examines language-in-education policies (LiEP) in Africa and the reasons for them. The historical attitudes towards both English and mother tongues (MTs) can still be seen today in the day-to-day school practices and in the linguistic landscape of the school. The introduction of English as languages of learning and teaching (LoLT) as part of the drive to master ex-colonial languages has had negative effects on all people's lives: in education, political participation, etc. A critical look at the current language-in-education policies in Africa reveals that there are misconceptions and practices towards the teaching and learning of English and African languages which have clouded the proper employment of African languages in education. Another potential challenge that complicates the teaching and learning of English is the nature and availability of conducive learning environments. The issues discussed above point to useful action points which can be handled both nationally and locally to make teaching and learning meaningful.
