The Implementation of Shinashigna Language as Medium of Instruction in Some Selected Primary Schools of Metekel Zone: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

This study explored opportunities and challenges of implementing Shinashigna language as medium of instruction in some selected primary Schools of Metekel zone, Benishangul Gumuz National and Regional State, Ethiopia. To achieve the purpose; both qualitative and quantitative research methodology was employed. For this study, out of seven Metekel zone woredas; four woredas were selected by purposive sampling. For primary school centers; four centers were taken by availability sampling. In the study, a total of 255 research respondents were involved. To collect data from each respondent group's; interviews, FGD and class room observation was employed. In addition, to support the findings, documentary analysis was done. Hence, for this study purpose, both primary and secondary data were used. Analysis and interpretation of data was made by using qualitative and quantitative approach. Based on the analysis,  the study confirmed that; low relevance and quality of educational materials in Shinashigna medium, poor organization of materials, lack of qualified  teachers in medium of instruction,   insufficient text book supply, poor capacity of implementers, lack of adequate training materials and  lack of continues professional development effort for teachers  were discovered as major challenges. Beside to the challenges, the study also identified existing opportunities for the implementation of Shinashigna as medium of instruction. These were conducive policy and constitutional environment of the government, improvement in the academic success of students, Shinashigna language was made to be a written language and the preservation of the Shinasha culture was made possible because of the program. Finally, the study recommended that, greater attention should be paid to the preparation of teacher guide, teaching materials, learning and reference materials, there is an urgent need on the development of literature in the language, there should be continuous training program to teachers, and there should be Shinashigna language development and enrichment institution to crate wide literature in the language. Finally, there should be a need to work with local, nation and international development agencies to develop the language and save the language of Boro Shinasha from danger of extinction.