H.S. Shivaprakash, writer and professor in Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, has expressed the hope that Kannada Universtiy, Hampi, will restore the past glory of Kannada language.
“Usage of Kannada in its own State is getting reduced. Kannada medium schools not getting the prominence enjoyed by English medium schools in the era of globalisation is mainly because of the adoption of the post-colonial model of education. To undo what has been done is possible through bringing in reforms in the education sector. I feel that Kannada University can take an initiative,” he said while delivering the 23rd Nudi Habba (convocation) address here on Friday.
Expressing concern over the fate of Kannada in the wake of English being considered inevitable to get good jobs, handsome earning and power and people who know English overtaking others, Mr. Shivaprakash said, “We will have to admit that English has become inevitable. At the same time, the need of the hour is to ensure that we do not bow to its onslaught and strive hard to ensure that the use of Kannada and its resources are protected and developed,” he said.
Showering praises on Kannada University for establishing different faculties to carryout comprehensive study and research on aspects pertaining to Kannada and culture, Mr. Shivaprakash suggested that the varsity set up a new faculty exclusively dealing with the ‘desi’ knowledge and science. It could include traditional healthcare, technology, knowledge related to agriculture, and art and culture. It could collect information, carry out research and hold training programmes to nurture, develop and propagate ‘desi’ knowledge.
Stating that translation was another major medium for the propagation and development of language, Mr. Shivaprakash wanted the university to continue the tradition set by our ancestors to popularise Kannada to the world. The translation department should take up translation of works not only to Hindi and English but also to languages such as Arabic, Chinese, among others.
He also wanted the university to organise interaction programmes blending traditional and modern knowledge disciplines to throw more light on the language to ensure a sound foundation for Kannada. “It is not enough to show that we have everything the world has. What is more important is to realise and understand the richness of our language, its tradition and culture and convince the world. Only then Kannada can live with its head held high, survive and grow in the world,” Mr. Shivaprakash added.
