An Overview of English Language as a Window of Economic Opportunity in Pakistan

Abstract

This paper overviews the worth of English language learning in Pakistan through the lens of economic cost and benefit comparison. The value is explored from theoretical perspective, using the theoretical construct of economic value of a language proposed by Francois Grin, which is applied in conducted interviews and reviewing the existing literature on language policy and planning of Pakistan. The paper finds that English language, due to the colonial legacy, enjoyed a privileged position in sociopolitical structure of the nascent Pakistani state. The historical entrenchment of English language created a system of values ensuring its domination in sociopolitical domains. Values in these domains determined differentiated earnings, costs and benefits for sociopolitical strata of Pakistan. The historical evolution structured these domains in such a way that the incumbency of English overcame challenges to its privileged position. The current growth of English language predicts continuation of its global and local domination in the foreseeable future.