Most of the MA programmes in translation, integrated diplomas and diplomas in foreign languages, at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) have been put on hold. Cusat had invited applications for admission to the courses through a notification published on January 10.
There is a lack of skilled and adequate personnel to run the foreign languages programme, said Brinda Bala Srinivasan, head, Department of Foreign Languages, Cusat.
The Department of Foreign Languages, Cusat, was instituted in 1976, as per the UGC Visiting Committee Plan IV.
The courses were initially restricted to the certificate and diploma levels. But later advanced courses were started to meet growing demands.
“Currently, language classes are being held in the evenings. We have students, working professionals, among others, pursuing the courses. There are no day-time programmes.
The proposal for a full-time MA German Translation programme was not approved by the Academic Council, as there are few takers. But we are facing a lack of adequate faculty members. The existing members are either guests or are on contract appointment. However, there are a few plans in the pipeline, to redress the situation, which would be presented to the Registrar soon,” says Brinda Bala Sreenivasan.
With the economy opening up, language translators are much sought after and MNCs require professionals well versed in foreign languages.
“Almost all leading MNCs require language specialists, experts, translators,” says Hamid Hussain, head of the Spanish language team at IBM Bangalore. He also runs Spanish classes at his hometown in Malappuram.
Recently, the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan took a step towards globalising its school curriculum by introducing German as the third language in its schools all over India.
“Germany is the economic engine of Europe and knowledge of German would be an advantage in securing better jobs. French is also spoken worldwide.
“There should be sufficient avenues to pursue foreign language studies in the state, at the diploma and masters levels.
“It could, in fact, open doors to better jobs, even quicker than what an average BTech degree can do these days,” says James Michael, diploma holder in German.
“With the 11th plan of the UGC, each of the 9 faculties in Cusat, including the Department of Foreign Languages, would get a facelift. Globally, there is a huge volume of scientific research work that is being documented in French, Italian, Spanish and German languages, and there is a need for language experts. We are facing a lack in full-time faculty members for foreign language courses.
A round of cost demand analysis for conducting foreign language courses is on the anvil. The Syndicate will start the courses, once approved by the Academic Council,” said A Ramachandran, Registrar, Cusat. With the support of the Ministry of Human Resource Development, the Registrar hopes that the under utilisation of one the foreign language centres in the state could be overcome.