THE PORTUGUESE LANGUAGE IN ANGOLA: REFLECTION ON ITS DOMINANCE IN THE EDUCATION SYSTEM AND SOFT POWER

Abstract

The article aims to analyze the influence of the Portuguese language in the Angolan education system, based on soft power and the setback in the implementation of national languages in school institutions. The scope of the study's reflections is based on qualitative assumptions, based on established literature and constitutional documents, as well as the National Education Development Plan, Educar Angola 2017-2030. For this study, the following questions arise as a starting point: What does the Constitution of the Republic of Angola say about the Portuguese language in schools and the teaching of national languages? How are the provisions of these laws implemented? What is teacher training like? The findings of the studies revealed that, in the Angolan context, the devaluation of national languages within the education system has historical roots that go back to the processes established by Portuguese colonialism. Public authorities need to commit themselves to creating policies that guarantee the application of existing laws.