In November 2025, the British Council convened the Language, Education and Inclusion Conference in Abuja. The event brought together policymakers, researchers, educators, and development partners from across Africa, South Asia, and the United Kingdom to explore how education systems can become more inclusive and equitable—particularly through the lens of language in teaching and learning.
This conference forms part of a broader series of British Council engagements focused on improving inclusion and quality in education. Across many countries, factors such as gender, disability, geography, and poverty remain central to learning outcomes. Within these discussions, language consistently emerges as a critical determinant of whether learners can fully participate, understand lessons, and remain engaged in the classroom.
Classroom Experience and Inclusion
A key focus of the conference was the learner’s experience in the classroom. Participants examined how language directly influences comprehension, confidence, and participation. When teaching connects with what learners already know—especially through familiar languages—lessons tend to be more accessible and engaging. This is particularly important for learners who may otherwise struggle to keep up.
Another important area of discussion was the role of English. In many participating countries, English serves as an official language and a gateway to education, employment, and global engagement. The conversation, therefore, was not about whether English is important—but how to ensure equitable access to quality English-language education, especially for learners who primarily encounter English in school settings.
A third dimension explored different international approaches to language use in education. Delegates shared experiences from systems where:
- English is used as the medium of instruction from early years,
- English is introduced later in schooling,
- Or where bilingual and multilingual approaches are applied.








.jpeg)

.jpeg)

.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)

.jpeg)
.jpeg)

.jpg)













.jpg)



