Multilingualism is the Foundation of Modern Education

On September 9, a roundtable discussion entitled “Multilingualism is the Foundation of Modern Education” was held among third-year students majoring in Translation Studies at the Faculty of Philology of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University.

In the modern era of globalization, proficiency in several languages is not only a requirement of the times but also an important prerequisite for quality education and professional development. For students specializing in Translation Studies in particular, multilingualism serves as a professional tool that helps build bridges between different cultures and peoples.

The main purpose of the roundtable was to discuss the importance of multilingual education, increase students’ interest in language learning, and raise awareness of the role that proficiency in several languages plays in the professional development of future specialists.

During the event, students shared their views on the role of multilingualism in the modern education system, the advantages of learning foreign languages, the interrelationship between language and culture, as well as the importance of mastering several languages in the translation profession. The participants shared their personal experiences, discussed the challenges they encounter in the process of language learning, and explored effective ways to overcome them.

For a future translator, multilingualism is not limited to speaking several languages fluently. It also involves the ability to understand the culture, worldview, traditions, and customs of different peoples, communicate effectively in various linguistic environments, and accurately convey information from one language into another. In this regard, developing the linguistic and cultural competence of young people who have chosen the translation profession is one of the most important tasks.

During the roundtable, the students demonstrated great enthusiasm and actively participated in the discussion. Various perspectives were presented, with particular attention given to the impact of multilingual education on the comprehensive development of individuals and the expansion of academic and professional opportunities for young specialists.

At the conclusion of the event, the participants summarized their discussion of the importance of multilingualism in contemporary society and emphasized that language learning is a continuous process. Today’s student is tomorrow’s professional. Undoubtedly, a specialist who speaks several languages, respects other cultures, and is able to communicate freely in a multilingual environment will be more competitive in the labor market.

The meeting entitled “Multilingualism is the Foundation of Modern Education” not only contributed to increasing students’ interest in language learning but also became an informative and meaningful event that encouraged them to reflect on their future professional careers.

A. Zhaparova
Assistant Professor, Department of Foreign Philology and Translation Studies