Youths should not hesitate to speak Tamil even after graduation: Opinion

Young Singaporeans have called on Tamil speakers to continue using the language confidently even after completing their university education, stressing that Tamil should remain a living language in everyday communication rather than being confined to classrooms or examinations. They noted that while many youths are proficient in reading and writing Tamil, they often switch to English in professional and social settings.

Commenting on the issue, Ms Baskaran Ganga emphasised that language proficiency should not end with formal education. She encouraged Tamil-speaking graduates to use the language confidently in their daily lives, noting that regular use strengthens linguistic competence, cultural identity and intergenerational transmission of the language. She added that speaking Tamil should be regarded as a source of pride rather than hesitation, regardless of one's educational qualifications or professional background.

The discussion also highlighted that bilingualism is an asset, with participants stressing that proficiency in English should complement, not replace, the use of one's mother tongue. They called for more opportunities for Tamil to be used in community activities, workplaces and digital spaces so that the language continues to flourish among younger generations. 

Watch the discussion here: https://youtu.be/aot_dUhmQ3I?si=ka4d1JAwKpDRMOZ8