We are truly living in a society where some people value and concentrate on English rather than their own local languages. Consequently, many of these languages are at risk of being forgotten and disappearing. While I agree that the importance of English is undeniable, measures should be taken to ensure the survival of local languages.
On one hand, it is vital for everyone to study English, as it is regarded as the most spoken language worldwide and a majority of people speak it. Knowledge of English opens the gate to globalization. For instance, most countries in the world currently use English as their main language. When traveling to these nations, good English proficiency is essential for smooth communication with citizens and to avoid misunderstandings, thereby promoting connections between different cultures. Moreover, many universities emphasize and encourage their students to obtain an English certificate, as numerous documents and lectures are written in English, requiring high-quality language skills.
On the other hand, the need to study local languages should not be disregarded. Local languages are powerful tools that help us understand and access a variety of distinctive cultures. These cultures are preserved and transmitted through generations via local languages, and this rich legacy risks being lost if local languages are overwhelmed by others, such as English. Therefore, it is crucial for governments and individuals to preserve local languages. One solution is to raise awareness about the importance of local languages and the need to protect them. For example, parents should teach their children their local language, and schools should introduce subjects about it so future generations can become familiar with it early in life.
In conclusion, while it is important to learn English in an era where globalization is necessary for every nation, we also have the responsibility to maintain our local languages to preserve our cultural identity.