In Asia, English Is Useful But Mandarin Is Rising

Given the innate capacity for language acquisition in schoolchildren, it makes sense to introduce immersion programs at a young age. In many Asian countries, elementary schools already instruct in English, a language seen as widely useful, especially for global business. Now Thailand has started programs to train students in Mandarin, perhaps equally practical in the growing inter-Asian economy. While English is still compulsory in public schools, many Thai teachers train in China and return to introduce Mandarin. Also, since 2004, China has opened language institutes in more than 20 countries. Though not yet widely prevalent, the Chinese programs aim to expand the possibilities for future workers in Thailand and other Asian countries. Perhaps these countries, mindful of China’s growing assertiveness in regional politics and economics, are hedging their bets.– YaleGlobal