We explore a potentially historic shift in South Africa’s language policy with the proposed Use of Official Languages Amendment Bill of 2024. The draft legislation aims to significantly strengthen the use of all 12 official languages, including South African Sign Language, across government services and institutions.
To unpack these questions, we are joined by the Acting CEO of PanSALB, Mr Julius Dantile, who offers insight into the bill, its intentions, and its possible impact on linguistic equality in South Africa.
At the heart of this proposal is the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB), which could transition from an advisory body into a more empowered enforcement authority. If enacted, the bill would allow PanSALB to monitor compliance, request reporting from government departments, and take stronger action to ensure language rights are upheld.
