Exploring the Effects of English Language Dominance on Sindhi Language Speakers' Attitudes

Abstract

This research study investigates how the emergence of English as a global language impacts the Sindhi language, particularly among students. English is considered as a lingua franca, which may influence the native languages spoken in Sindh. To address this issue, the researcher conducted a study to explore the impact of the global spread of the English language on Sindhi speakers enrolled in universities in Sindh. The current research employs a mixed-methodology approach, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods. The researcher used a questionnaire for the quantitative aspect of data collection and conducted semi-structured interviews for qualitative data collection. Ultimately, the researcher has discovered that the worldwide prevalence of the English language has adversely impacted Sindhi language speakers. Furthermore, this dominance poses a risk to Sindhi speakers due to the exclusive use of English in areas such as education, commerce, science, technology, and job opportunities. These primary domains heavily favor the English language, leading individuals to prioritize it over their native language, resulting in English posing a threat to other languages. Although we cannot eliminate the use of English, we can advocate for the integration of our own language in academic contexts to enhance learning and mitigate the influence of English.