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13/10/2005
Seminar develops languages strategy for NI
The development of a languages strategy for Northern Ireland was the focus of a seminar at Queen's University on Wednesday.
The joint University of Ulster and Queen's University initiative aimed to focus on the strategic role of languages and on the need to develop a fully-developed languages strategy for Northern Ireland which will take account of various aspects of the local situation – economic, social and educational.
During the launch Professor Michael Kelly, Director of the Subject Centre for Languages, Linguistics and Areas Studies, launched the Northern Ireland Subject Centre - a cross-institutional body which will initially be based at the University of Ulster's Coleraine campus and led by Professor John Gillespie. After two years the Centre will move to Queen's and continue thereafter on a rotating basis.
Professor Gerry McCormac, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Community and Communications at Queen's, said the development of a languages policy for Northern Ireland was timely.
"Our offshore attitude has been exacerbated here by problems from which we are now steadily emerging," he said. "As we engage with each other we are also inevitably engaging with other cultures and as we engage with the outside world, either in commerce or tourism or cultural activity, it is clear that we are sadly lacking in foreign language competence."
Among those attending today's launch included academics, language teachers and representatives from the Department of Education, the Department of Employment and Learning, the Council for Curriculum Examinations and Assessment and the Education and Library Boards.
(MB)
The joint University of Ulster and Queen's University initiative aimed to focus on the strategic role of languages and on the need to develop a fully-developed languages strategy for Northern Ireland which will take account of various aspects of the local situation – economic, social and educational.
During the launch Professor Michael Kelly, Director of the Subject Centre for Languages, Linguistics and Areas Studies, launched the Northern Ireland Subject Centre - a cross-institutional body which will initially be based at the University of Ulster's Coleraine campus and led by Professor John Gillespie. After two years the Centre will move to Queen's and continue thereafter on a rotating basis.
Professor Gerry McCormac, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Community and Communications at Queen's, said the development of a languages policy for Northern Ireland was timely.
"Our offshore attitude has been exacerbated here by problems from which we are now steadily emerging," he said. "As we engage with each other we are also inevitably engaging with other cultures and as we engage with the outside world, either in commerce or tourism or cultural activity, it is clear that we are sadly lacking in foreign language competence."
Among those attending today's launch included academics, language teachers and representatives from the Department of Education, the Department of Employment and Learning, the Council for Curriculum Examinations and Assessment and the Education and Library Boards.
(MB)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
