IsiZulu as a vehicle towards teaching and conducting research in higher education: challenges and prospects

Abstract

This paper reports on the prospects and challenges on the use of isiZulu in research and teaching by the lecturers at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The study uses a qualitative case study methodology. Documented data and interviews with lecturers are used as data generation methods. Data is analysed, using thematic analysis. Results indicate that lecturers use isiZulu successfully for purposes of research and teaching, but there are some challenges which need to be considered. These challenges include isiZulu as language of instruction in some study programmes, and reporting research outputs through the use of an African language, isiZulu. However, the study also reports on the challenges that lecturers encounter in their attempts at using isiZulu as an academic language, particularly in research.