The World Voice Programme transformed English language education in Ethiopia through the innovative incorporation of musical elements into the teaching framework.
In Ethiopia, where Amharic is the official language, English is initially taught as a subject until grade 7. However, students face challenges when English becomes the medium of instruction in higher grades, as they may lack proficiency in the language, leading to difficulties in understanding various subjects.
Recognising the systemic hurdles posed by this transition and the imperative to bolster English proficiency among Ethiopian students, the British Council introduced the World Voice Programme. This innovative initiative sought to harness the power of music as a pedagogical tool in enhancing English proficiency. Reflecting on the enduring impact of the programme, Zenny Zerfu, the programme manager, reminisces, “Songs are inherently conducive to learning, as evidenced by research. The World Voice Programme revolutionized English language instruction in Ethiopia by integrating songs into the curriculum. Though the programme has concluded globally, its legacy remains palpable in Ethiopia to this day.”
The World Voice Programme relied on English and Music teachers to implement it, using songs to improve students’ language skills and make learning more engaging than traditional grammar-focused methods. “The children eagerly embraced this novel method of instruction,” Zenny notes. “Classrooms were no longer silent; instead, students found their voices and actively participated. Homework ceased to be a chore, as learning became an exciting journey, fostering a more positive attitude towards English.”
In the bustling capital city of Addis Ababa, over 100 thousand students benefited from the programme by its conclusion in 2019. Moreover, tens of thousands more across various regions of the country were touched by its transformative influence, leaving an indelible imprint on Ethiopia’s educational landscape. To preserve the legacy of the World Voice Programme, Zenny, along with other stakeholders, established the World Voice and Arts Association in Ethiopia. “The impact of the World Voice Programme transitioned its participants, reaching hundreds of thousands of students,” Zenny explains. “Recognizing the invaluable contribution of the programme, we felt compelled to sustain its legacy by forming an association with the support of the British Council.”
To date, the World Voice and Arts Association in Ethiopia has trained over 200 teachers and established World Voice Clubs in numerous schools across the country. Committed to advancing the mission of the World Voice Programme, the association endeavors to continue fostering English proficiency among Ethiopian students through innovative pedagogical approaches.