May 30, 2025 Yaoundé, Cameroon
Policymakers signaled interest in using the findings to reform curriculum and improve early literacy in Cameroon.
A high-level research dissemination conference held in Yaoundé has highlighted the importance of aligning home and school languages to improve early literacy outcomes in Cameroon. Organized by Dr. Yselle Flora Malah Kuete under the Africa Fellows in Education Program (AFEP), the event brought together government officials, educators, researchers, and civil society actors to explore the role of language in foundational learning.
At the centre of the conference was the presentation of a new study titled "Linguistic Similarity and Early Literacy Skills: Evidence from Cameroon", which found that children perform significantly better when taught in languages that are phonetically similar to those spoken at home. The research—supported by the Partnership for Economic Policy (PEP), the Global Education Analytics Institute (GEAI), and the Yidan Prize—used innovative phonetic-based tools to analyze the effects of language alignment across 15 major Cameroonian languages and the country’s two official languages, French and English.
Participants from the Ministry of Basic Education and the Ministry of Arts and Culture engaged deeply with the findings during panel discussions and follow-up bilateral exchanges. Notably, a representative from the Ministry publicly stated during a CRTV radio broadcast that the government is considering reviewing curriculum guidelines in response to the evidence shared at the event.
Educators and parents in the audience reinforced the study’s relevance, pointing to real-life struggles students face in classrooms due to language barriers. Breakout discussions revealed a strong call for region-specific materials and formal teacher training in local languages. Suggestions included avoiding cross-regional postings that undermine linguistic continuity and improving access to locally adapted learning tools.
The hybrid format of the event, which included a virtual address from AFEP Director Prof. Ramaele Moshoeshoe, proved effective in expanding reach. Organizers also noted that sharing research summaries with participants ahead of the event contributed to richer, more focused dialogue.The event drew coverage from CRTV Radio and Television, as well as Cameroon Business Today, helping to amplify the message beyond the room. A policy brief summarizing the study’s findings and recommendations is under review and will be made available on the PEP, GEAI, and AFEP websites.
This conference marks a significant step in bringing evidence-based, linguistically inclusive education policy into national conversations—affirming that language matters deeply in shaping learning equity and outcomes across Cameroon.
