Children, teenagers, and even some adults of Punjabi ancestry sometimes wonder why they should learn Punjabi. It is a fair question, and parents of school-aged children should be prepared to respond when their children ask them the same question. Punjabi Language Education Association (PLEA) has been tackling these issues for almost fifteen years. Here are a few of the advantages of studying Punjabi.
Punjabi has grown to be one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. The United Nations has identified 6,000 languages spoken around the world. Punjabi is the tenth most popular language in the world. Punjabi speakers are estimated to number about 150 million and live in 150 countries around the world. It is the sixth most widely spoken language in Canada. After the 2011 census, it is projected to go up to fourth place. As a result, learning a prominent language, especially one closely associated with one's heritage, makes sense.
Punjabi language is a wonderful facilitator for inter-generational dialogue for the South Asian community in general and the Punjabi community in particular. Many Punjabi parents and grandparents struggle to communicate in English. On the other hand, a considerable number of Punjabi children and youth do not speak Punjabi well. As a result, the connectivity chasm is understandable. Children and youth would be much more able to connect with their parents, ancestors, friends, and extended family if they learn Punjabi.
The planet has become a virtual village as a result of technological advancements. India and China, for example, are on the verge of becoming potential superpowers. Between Canada and India in general, and Punjab in particular, there are enormous trade opportunities. Punjabi is the province's official working language. People interested in trade, industry, or travel opportunities in Punjab would benefit greatly from knowing Punjabi.
Punjabi is spoken by a sizable population in provinces such as Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia.
People who are fluent in both English and Punjabi will have a lot of work openings thanks to this large customer base. According to reports, there are nearly 2,000 jobs in Surrey alone where Punjabi is considered an opportunity. Similarly, Punjabi speakers can find plenty of career openings in Abbotsford, Calgary, Edmonton, Brampton, and Mississauga. Also some large companies are looking for workers who are fluent in Punjabi.
The sacred scripture of Sikhism The Gurmukhi/Punjabi script is used in Shri Guru Granth Sahib. Reading and understanding Shri Guru Granth Sahib in its original language has its own distinct benefit, beauty, excitement, and enjoyment.
Punjabi literature is extremely diverse. It is now limited not only to Punjab or India, but also to the rest of the world. It has its own allure to read Punjabi novels, short stories, plays, and poetry. It's a fantastic way to learn about one's roots through Punjabi literature. Learning Punjabi is the easiest way to do this. It not only provides access to Punjabi culture, but also to a wealth of information and history.
Knowing a foreign language is often beneficial.
In particular, learning as many languages as possible is beneficial.
In British Columbia, students must learn a second language from grades 5 to 8, after which it is optional from grades 9 to 12.
