Introduction: The beginning of English language learning in Bangladesh dates from the 1630s when English factories started to be set up. English was the official language in Bangladesh during the British rule. Though today English is no longer the official language, it is the most important foreign or second language in Bangladesh. It is taught at most educational institutions as a compulsory subject. Only this information is enough to reveal the importance of learning English in Bangladesh.
Importance of international communication/relation: English is an international language. It is the official or semi-official language in more than 60 countries and of many international organizations. More than 650 million people use it as the first or second language. Nowadays, in the globalized world, no one can do without communicating with other countries. But we require a common language for international communication. Only English can serve this purpose. So, we have no other choice except for learning English.
Importance for higher education: The kind of education that we need in the modern world is contained in books written in English For example, almost all books on medical sciences, technological, sciences, business studies are written in English. So if we do not learn English with due importance from an early level, we will not be able to produce good doctors, skilled technicians, and efficient engineers, etc.
Importance regarding information technology: Information is considered to be the lifeblood of modern civilization. Today, more than 80% of all the information in the world’s computers is English. Each and every sector of information technology is strictly based on the English language. For example, internet, e-mail, etc. are important sources of information. The language of these modes of information is English.
Importance for employment: On 10 October 1844, Lord Hardinge’s resolution made English the passport to a higher appointment. But now in the modern world, we see that Job advertisements often ask for a good waring knowledge of English. This is because almost all the job fields now require 1nternat1onal communication. Whether It is the post of a telephone operator or the same as a general manager of a firm, English is often a must for communication. That is why learning English is important irrespective of post or position in the job fields nowadays.
Importance regarding contribution to our civilization: English has a rich literature and modern Bengali culture is largely indebted to this English literature, culture and custom have brought to us the Qest ideas of the west. If we do not learn English, there is a possibility that we shall be cut off from the tide of modern western civilization An that are the bests in European and American thoughts are available through English. So, we all should learn English to enrich our civilization.
Conclusion: The importance of English in Bangladesh today may be gauged by the formal recognition of English as a second language in 2001. It is true that the standard of English nationally in Bangladesh is not high. English is still an urban and elite language here. But with independence, globalization, satellite television, FM radio and above all the phenomenal growth of its industry Bangladesh is being exposed to Enghsh as never before. So we all should learn English to attain e effective communicative skill.
Leave a Reply