Language planning might have stalled, but indigenous languages are making quiet inroads in South Africa's universities

Key Points

• This commentary explores the effectiveness of post-apartheid language policies in promoting multilingualism within South Africa's education system.
• Analysis of historical language policy developments in post-apartheid South Africa
• Review of current status regarding indigenous languages in universities
• Discussion on the implications of these educational policies
• Post-apartheid language policies have not effectively promoted multilingualism in higher education
• Indigenous languages continue to face barriers in academic settings
• The progress of incorporating indigenous languages in universities remains limited despite official policies