Sociolinguistics and Language Education.pdf

Language and Education: A Limpopo Lens 559
Figure 20.1 University of Limpopo: What can I do with a BA CEMS degree?
the very existence of an academic program that incorporates African
language and knowledge as resources constitutes a transformation of
relationships between language, society and power. The program’s preparation
of Black African undergraduates for careers in journalism, translation,
language consulting, education and other professions is a further step
toward social transformation. It was this sense of transformative power
and possibility that rippled through the CELS 302 class when Mapelo visited
that day and shared her exuberant confi dence with the students.
Social justice is pursued only with considerable struggle, and CEMS is
no exception. From its beginnings and before, Ramani and Joseph have
fought for recognition and status for the program and their students
within the University. As each hurdle is passed, new ones arise; and program
staff and students are vigilant to confront them when they do. So, for
example, in CELS 302 class one day, Michael expressed his dismay and
anger over a protest announcement posted around campus that day by
the Pan-African student movement, PASMA, including among its list of