University of Wales Trinity Saint David is pleased to announce the graduation of the first cohort of the Postgraduate Certificate in Language Policy and Planning.
This innovative qualification responds to the Welsh Government's linguistic agenda of reaching one million Welsh speakers by 2050. A combination of academic and practical experiences is offered to deepen understanding of the main concepts of the field both nationally and internationally providing contemporary and essential knowledge along with applied experience.
Professor Elin Haf Gruffydd Jones, Director of the Centre for Advanced Welsh and Celtic Studies, noted, "This innovative certificate is intended to set policy and language planning in Wales in local, national and international contexts, combining the practical with the theoretical to deepen our knowledge and broaden our horizons to make a difference in the field."
Kara Lewis, Programme Manager, added:
"We are extremely proud of our students. Seeing their progress and growth in confidence when discussing this field during the year has been a positive experience for us all. We plan to establish a network to continue the discussions and support beyond the course.
"Vocational expertise in language planning is necessary to realise the Government's vision of reaching Welsh million speakers by 2050, and this cohort will play a vital role. Promoting the Welsh language, and promoting linguistic equality within the public sector, private sector, education and more, requires an understanding of effective, practical and powerful strategies. This is a professional qualification that blends contemporary practical activity with the theoretical academic foundations of this increasingly important field.
"Best wishes to our students and many congratulations."
Bethan Price, a student on the course, expressed:
"This course was an opportunity to reflect on the impact of policy in my everyday work: how past policy has shaped the system we now have and its impact on current Welsh speakers. Studying on the course enabled me to step back and scrutinize the internal planning and strategies we have in place. The work I did for the course has started to directly impact the plans of the organisation I work for. It's also a great opportunity to network with other individuals in the field, who have now become friends."
Carys Edwards, another student, added:
"The course has given me a new perspective on my work, allowing me to take the time to learn and look closer at the theory behind the day-to-day work. I've enjoyed hearing about the situation of other minority languages, and have gained a better understanding of how Welsh contributes to the international picture. The seminars flew-by while listening to the diverse and passionate lecturers and experts. From a personal point of view, it's been great to start thinking in a different way and it was a pleasure to get to know the rest of the crew on the course."
This is a part-time, online course entirely through the medium of Welsh. Live sessions are led by Professor Elin Haf Gruffydd Jones and Catrin Llwyd, with many guest speakers who lead the field nationally and internationally.
Note;
This certificate is offered again this year, starting September 2024. Contact the team as soon as possible for more information or to apply [email protected]