I assumed that since Phat was talking about students in Africa and that I had written 'students' that my post was clearly linked to the discussion of Africa; but I will try to be more specific next time.
This much is certain, though: assuming that any Asian language is as foreign to the students as any European language (which isn't true, but let's just assume it for the sake of simplicity), it makes much more sense to educate the students in a European language (especially English) for the reasons I gave about available learning materials which your list supports.
OK, bearing the above in mind, wouldn't it be better to say "It's practically impossible to obtain a meaningful graduate degree in science, engineering, international law or business without being fluent in either one of the major European languages or, somewhat more limiting, a major Asian language." than "And it's practically impossible to live a successful life without being fluent in one of the major European languages."
Not even advanced degrees. The students Phat's article was talking about were going into highschool. Apparently it's not even possible to get a decent highschool education in Swahili. Equally apparent is the fact that the current system of educating in Swahili at the primary level doesn't do enough to prepare students for what will be required at the next level.
And an education system should be, at the very least, capable of preparing people to obtain more education.
These kids need to stop whining and start studying.
Sheesh, Jon. I agree with most of what you say but you sure make it a pain in the ass to support you when it seems we often have to spend half a dozen posts just to pin down exactly what you mean.
You seemed to figure it out
Love your enemies!