The Role of Multilingual Education and Cultural Competence in Enhancing Equity and Academic Achievement

¹Okolo Chinwe Jane, ²Chinyere Grace Ezeonwumelu*, ³Chioma Ihuoma Barah and ⁴Ugwu Nnenna Jovita

¹Department of Foreign Languages Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu -Alike.

²Faculty of Education Kampala International University Uganda

³Department of Public Administration and Management, Kampala International University Uganda

⁴Department of Publication and Extension Kampala International University Uganda

Corresponding Authors Email: grchinyere@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Multilingual education and cultural competence are increasingly recognized as essential components in creating equitable and effective educational environments. This paper explores the challenges and benefits of embedding local and home languages into new L1 educational settings, particularly in urban areas where colonial languages often dominate. It discusses the importance of cultural competence in fostering inclusive, engaging, and academically successful classrooms. The integration of multilingual education is highlighted as a means to respect linguistic diversity, improve educational outcomes, and promote social equity. The paper also examines implementation strategies and models for multilingual education programs, drawing on global examples and best practices.

Keywords: Multilingual education, cultural competence, equity, academic achievement, educational policy, linguistic diversity and implementation strategies

CITE AS: Okolo Chinwe Jane, Chinyere Grace Ezeonwumelu, Chioma Ihuoma Barah and Ugwu Nnenna Jovita (2024). The Role of Multilingual Education and Cultural Competence in Enhancing Equity and Academic Achievement. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN EDUCATION 3(2):90-93.