THE PORTUGUESE LANGUAGE IN ANGOLA AS A FACTOR OF SOCIAL INCLUSION AND EXCLUSION

Abstract

This article analyzes the role of the Portuguese language in Angola as a simultaneous factor of social inclusion and exclusion, considering its status as an official language and its coexistence with various national languages. It adopts a sociolinguistic approach, addressing teaching practices, linguistic prejudice, and social inequalities associated with the use of the Portuguese language. The study discusses how proficiency in Portuguese enables access to education, the job market, and civic participation, while simultaneously marginalizing speakers of native languages. Methodologically, the research adopts a qualitative, descriptive-analytical approach, based on a bibliographic review of academic works, scientific articles, and legal documents on language policies, education, and linguistic diversity in Angola. The data analysis is based on the critical interpretation of linguistic discourses and practices, allowing for an understanding of the dynamics of social inclusion and exclusion in the Angolan context. It is concluded that, although the Portuguese language plays a fundamental role in national cohesion and social integration, the absence of effective policies to promote national languages ​​in the education system contributes to the reproduction of social inequalities.