Use of English as a Medium of Instruction: Socioeconomic Implications

Abstract

The use of English as a global lingua franca influences the adoption of English-medium instruction (EMI) in non-native English-speaking countries such as Nepal. However, attraction towards EMI may threaten linguistic heterogeneity and cultural maintenance. This study dives into the Indigenous parents’ motivations for choosing EMI, focusing on socioeconomic factors and their views regarding the impact of EMI on the preservation of their mother tongue. This study involved a survey questionnaire and semi-structured interviews with Indigenous parents whose children attend EMI schools. The study reveals parents’ concerns about EMI as they compared the potential socioeconomic gains against the need to protect their cultural heritage. The study points out that the Indigenous parents’ preference for EMI revolves around international migration, quality education, and socioeconomic mobility, all of which may erode Indigenous languages and exacerbate inequalities. Policy should ensure that the aspirations of Indigenous people are fulfilled without the cost of their language and culture, implementing multilingual approaches.