Adhikari: The world needs link language to do business, interact

The Director of Examinations, Nigeria at the British Council, Deep Adhikari, emphasized the importance of a link language for global business interactions in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. Adhikari highlighted the partnership between the British Council and IELTS, noting that it explores the evolving landscape of English proficiency. He emphasized the necessity of a common language to facilitate international business transactions and communication. Adhikari pointed out that English-taught programs have experienced significant growth post-COVID-19, indicating a rising demand for English proficiency in various regions across the world. One of the key points raised by Adhikari was the deficiency in English language education, particularly in countries where English serves as a link and business language. He noted that in many cases, English is not effectively taught in schools, with a focus on literature rather than language acquisition. Adhikari highlighted the lack of emphasis on essential skills such as listening, attributing it to the digital distractions that hinder concentration. He stressed the importance of continuous practice and real-world application to enhance language proficiency, citing activities like watching TV or reading business magazines as valuable tools for skill development. Adhikari also discussed the collaboration between IELTS and educational institutions, emphasizing the extensive network of partnerships with over 12,500 institutions worldwide. He pointed out the shift in English-taught programs, noting that while traditionally the top four English-speaking countries dominated, there has been a significant increase in English-taught courses outside of these regions post-COVID-19. Adhikari highlighted the role of global assessments like APTIS in setting standards for English proficiency, providing organizations and governments with tools to evaluate language skills. In terms of English proficiency standards in Sub-Saharan Africa, Adhikari stressed the importance of setting a benchmark and not assuming proficiency based on a country's primary language. He called for a concerted effort from both public and private institutions to enhance English language education and improve proficiency levels. Adhikari's insights shed light on the critical role of English as a link language in global communication and the growing importance of standardized assessments in measuring language proficiency. As the world continues to prioritize effective communication and collaboration across borders, the demand for a common language for business interactions becomes increasingly vital. Adhikari's observations underscore the need for concerted efforts to bridge the gap in English language education and leverage standardized assessments to enhance proficiency levels globally.