When the Language of Instruction Is the Medium of Division

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The announcement by Stellenbosch University that it will extend the application of dual-medium instruction brought back memories.

I once worked at the University of Pretoria, where I experienced disguised racism. In one instance, I attended a meeting where my contribution was zero. At the meeting, topics would be introduced in English but everybody would respond in Afrikaans. Even the resolutions were not read out for the benefit of those who did not speak Afrikaans.

Despite this, I do not think anyone had the conscious intention of excluding anyone. However, it seems exclusionary techniques are deeply embedded in the psyche of some of these institutions. Such …