African Oral Poetry and Performance (Humanities) | 11 June 2008
Language Revitalization and Cultural Identity in East Africa: An Ethnographic Study in Egypt
A, m, i, r, a, G, h, a, l, i, b, ,, W, a, f, a, a, t, A, l, -, Q, u, r, a, s, h, i, ,, A, h, m, e, d, E, l, -, S, a, y, e, d, ,, O, m, a, r, H, a, s, s, a, n
Abstract
Language revitalization efforts in Egypt reflect broader trends of cultural identity formation within East Africa, influenced by historical migration patterns and contemporary socio-political contexts. The research employs participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and archival analysis to gather data from various linguistic and cultural stakeholders involved in language revitalization initiatives. A significant theme emerging from the findings is the active role of local educators and community leaders in promoting mother-tongue education, with approximately 40% of schools now offering Arabic as a primary curriculum subject. The study underscores the dynamic interplay between linguistic revitalization efforts and cultural identity formation among Arabic-speaking communities in Egypt. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to assess long-term impacts of language revitalization programmes on cultural continuity and community cohesion.