A recent national census conducted in Pacific Island Countries has reported a notable level of bilingualism among the populations, according to Educational Assessment and Evaluation Specialist Anaseini Raivoce. The findings indicate that approximately 77 percent of Tongans and an impressive 95 percent of Fijians are bilingual.
Ms. Raivoce shared these insights during the world literacy and numeracy celebrations held at the Pacific Community (SPC) branch in Nabua, Suva. She noted that these figures significantly surpass those of New Zealand, where bilingualism stands at 20 percent, and Australia at 25 percent. In the United Kingdom, the percentage attributed to English bilingualism is reported to be around 35 percent.
She emphasized that multilingualism involves more than just the ability to speak multiple languages; it also encompasses thriving within various cultural contexts, which come with distinct values, norms, and worldviews. Ms. Raivoce suggested that the Pacific Islands are progressing well in establishing their multilingual identity, as evidenced by Papua New Guinea’s vast linguistic diversity, home to over 800 languages, accounting for about 12 percent of the world’s total.
Countries like Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands also rank among the highest in the world for languages spoken per capita. This vast diversity is largely a result of centuries of migration, trade, and cultural exchanges in the region.
However, she pointed out that one of the significant hurdles in implementing multilingual education in Pacific nations is the lack of educational resources available in many indigenous languages. Furthermore, issues related to assessing multilingualism are frequently overlooked, with assessment policies and practices historically lagging behind educational advances.
Ms. Raivoce advocated for the inclusion of multilingualism in educational systems, arguing that it could create a more inclusive learning environment that acknowledges all identities present in the classroom. Ultimately, she believes that promoting multilingualism in the Pacific is not just about boosting literacy rates; it is about fostering a richer and more inclusive society where every voice is valued, and all cultures are appreciated.