- To
-
Naledi Pandor
- From
-
Gcina
- Subject
- Mandatory English Tests for Immigration and Academics from English-Speaking Countries
- Date
- Feb. 2, 2024, 3:31 p.m.
Dear Minister,
Firstly, I must apologise for writing to you, but I strongly believe in you a lot. I strongly believe that we have been abused by the west a lot and no one is talking about such issues. As MP and Minister, I wish you to raise this issue in parliament and in all media. It's hard for us to give- them the same medicine they give to us. When will these countries stop stealing from us?
As a concerned citizen, I am deeply troubled by the discriminatory practices that force individuals from English-speaking countries or where English is an official language to take mandatory English tests for immigration and academic purposes. This requirement applies regardless of one's level of education, even if they hold advanced degrees like a PhD or Masters from these very countries. It is disheartening to see that this regulation does not exempt professors and senior lecturers from highly recognized universities.
This policy displays elements of racism, discrimination, undermines other institutions, and seems to serve as a money-making agenda for the British Council and all these countries involved. It is important to note that people from these nations are already proficient in the language due to their educational background and professional experience.
According to data from the EF EPI 2020 report, countries like Australia (3rd), Ireland (5th), UK (6th), New Zealand (7th) are among the top ten nations with the highest proficiency in English globally. Therefore it seems redundant and unfair for citizens of such nations who have been educated in these systems to be subjected again to prove their proficiency in a language they have been using all their lives.
We urge governments worldwide - particularly those of Australia, UK, New Zealand, Canada & Ireland - reconsider this policy which appears discriminatory at its core. We call on them not only because it's unjust but also because it undermines our shared commitment towards equality & fairness across borders. Please sign this petition if you believe in equal treatment for all regardless of nationality or linguistic background.
I do think exposing such globally can help. It is too much what these countries are doing across the Globe. This is just a tool of sucking money from other citizens of other countries, it has got nothing to do with English Competency. .
Regards,
Concern Citizen
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