Readers’ reactions

PNP wants Patois declared an official language

Why? We already speak it fluently, and speakers of Patois understand Standard English when spoken to them just fine. – @madald2

So dat is her best she bring to the table. They’re always trying to muddy the water when they don’t have any clear solution. We can’t even fix education in English as it is, and now we’re talking about switching to Patois? Yes, I support Patois as a second language, but that’s a discussion, not a priority. There are much more important issues that need to be addressed first. – @TowshiVentures

It might be expensive to train teachers to teach in Patois and also create school books in that language. And some people might worry that focusing too much on Patois could make it harder for students to learn English, which is still needed for business and jobs. #LanguagePolicy – @nstone2410

How would this pan out as there is no structure to Patois as we know it? We all write with spellings of our own and, best believe, it can be read. Is there a problem with the official language now? Who is aware that no one has to be taught Patois, we all just learn. PhD people. – @Radiolistenerjm

I agree it should be an official language. However, I disagree with it being taught in school. Patois is a unique language with different variations by parish. Teaching it diminishes its authenticity and cultural identity. – @bertodon

It has been asked before, and I am yet to see a sensible answer, How can you teach someone to read and write in Patois without first teaching them the English language, specifically the English alphabet? As a spoken language only probably, but how would it work in writing?! – @beemillmckie

How does that benefit us? Most can’t even speak English. Patois has too many different spellings, etc. We have other pressing issues like Flat Bridge. – @RodrickSpe48496

How many teachers can read Patois? Not to mention writing our beloved language. A good idea but, I believe, a lot of foundational work should be done before such a change. Nothing is stopping teachers from explaining some concepts in Patois where children don’t get it in English. – @jono_10

Maybe make Spanish compulsory, that would be good in regard to trade, or teach other languages. – @Lona1islandgirl

I’m proud of your achievements Dr Burke Brown but I’m sure you didn’t pursue your degrees in Patois. I love you but this shouldn’t even be an agenda item. I have a story to tell you about my granddaughter, to prove my point. Selah. – @AnnTayl21802660

Readers’ reactions sourced from The Gleaner’s X, formerly Twitter, page. Compiled by Khanique McDaniel.