Are we facing the DISAPPEARANCE of Translation and Interpreting studies and professions?

Translation and Interpreting studies in UK universities are in HUGE decline. In fact, some universities in the UK are no longer offering such courses to prospective undergraduates.

Are we really facing the DOWNFALL of these disciplines? It’s time to take action!

The number of UK universities offering degrees in modern languages and translation studies is dwindling ALARMINGLY. “Hips don’t lie” and neither do numbers. There has been a steep FALL since 2004, resulting in a decrease of almost 50% in the number of students enrolling for modern languages and translation and interpreting degrees.

Some argue that languages and linguistics studies are “downgraded” disciplines and the government and the majority of the population give more credit to STEM courses which they feel reflects the needs of the modern world and its future employment trends.

A few months ago, Say It Global had the pleasure to have a private meeting with a senior translator lecturer from one of the most reputable universities in the UK who shared her concerns with us about the future of translation studies.

Whenever we discuss this current situation, the unavoidable always comes to mind:

“This is a threat to the economy!” “This will have a negative effect on UK trade globally!” “Foreign companies will inevitably be abandoning the UK to establish themselves overseas!”

And it’s true! This can be disastrous economically, but equally disastrous and saddening is:

- To see present and future young generations not having the means to communicate, share ideas and comprehend other cultures, traditions and values.

- To see an important nation completely isolated from the rest of the world due to the lack of language trained professionals who can build communication bridges between nations thanks to their knowledge of foreign languages, dialects and cultures.

So, remember this: languages are powerful tools which can break down all types of barriers. As Nelson Mandela said, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.”. ????

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