Strengthening Indigenous language education: Teacher perspectives from the Chittagong Hill Tracts

Abdullah Al Mamun  Bhuiyan; Dale Kirby

doi:10.55146/ajie.v54i2.1090

Authors

Abdullah Al Mamun Bhuiyan Memorial University of Newfoundland https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3922-475X
Dale Kirby Memorial University of Newfoundland https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2748-5533

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55146/ajie.v54i2.1090

Keywords:

Indigenous language education, teacher training, language preservation, Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh

Abstract

This study investigated the role of Indigenous teachers in preserving and teaching the Chakma language in Bangladesh’s Chittagong Hill Tracts region. Through interviews with 14 Chakma-speaking primary school teachers, the research examined their dual roles in (a) teaching the Chakma language as a subject and (b) using it as a medium of instruction for other curriculum content. The findings show that, while teachers are committed to promoting the language, shortages of trained, fluent educators and limited instructional resources constrain effectiveness. Participants also emphasised the need for stronger language specialists who can teach directly in Chakma and mentor other teachers to strengthen their first-language proficiency. The study highlights that comprehensive, continuous training, dedicated Indigenous language instructors, and expanded classroom time are critical to sustaining Indigenous languages and fostering cultural identity among students.

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Author Biographies

Abdullah Al Mamun Bhuiyan, Memorial University of Newfoundland

Abdullah Al Mamun Bhuiyan completed a Master of Education at the Memorial University of Newfoundland. His academic interests include teaching and learning, teacher education, Indigenous education, education policy and planning, decolonization, and second language acquisition

Dale Kirby, Memorial University of Newfoundland

Dale Kirby is a Professor of Post-Secondary Education in the Faculty of Education at the Memorial University of Newfoundland. Dr. Kirby’s research interests include transitions to and through post-secondary education and the labour market with a focus on the factors influencing student persistence and success.

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