Study on Implementation of Subject Policy as a Key to Effective Teaching and Learning of Siswati Language

Abstract

The objectives of this article are to set out the process and key areas for Siswati Subject Policy (SSP). Siswati is one of the languages in the Republic of South Africa that is granted the official status in terms of Section 6 of the Constitution. It is learned, taught and spoken at various provinces. The subject policy focuses on the development and management of the language from the theoretical understanding of its concepts to their practical stance. The policy is also expected to reinforce the government’s responsibilities of establishing the language infrastructures, providing equitable access to it and, enhancing language participation. The language subject policy covers all aspects of micro and macro linguistics, literature and onomastics. It covers teaching and learning, research, administration and community engagement. However, more specific to focus on language in society and society in language, approaches and analytic strategies of the language as well as social interaction. It is recommended that subject language policy needs to be drawn before the actual teaching and learning activities take place. It must be drawn after a thorough scrutiny of other institutions’ language policies.