Learn to speak foreign languages in 40 hours

BANGALORE: The Centre for Global Languages of Bangalore University is planning to start foreign language speaking courses of 40 hours duration shortly.The university is already offering Diploma courses in 10 different foreign languages including French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Korean and Japanese.Speaking to TNIE, the Chairman of the Centre Dr K Eresi said: "All these years, we used to teach these Diploma courses through which students were learning how to read and write foreign languages. But the new sixmonth course will train them in speaking those languages. At present, 434 students have enrolled for various languages."The centre is gearing up to set up a language laboratory where students will be taught how to speak foreign languages with proper pronunciation."We will teach them conversational skills. Unlike the regular courses, students here will learn speaking only. The intake is just 30 seats and it is a 40hour course," Eresi explained. However, the centre has not decided the fee for the course yet."It should come to the Syndicate meeting for approval. It will be a nominal fee," he assured. Classes will be conducted at the Central College campus.Eresi said that for foreign language speaking courses, they are mainly targeting people from IT. "Many techies travel abroad on duty for a short visit. In many countries like France, even if you know English, it will be of no use. For such people, these type of foreign language speaking courses are certainly helpful".Eresi said, "There are many people here in Bangalore who keep travelling abroad frequently as tourists. Our courses will be good for them too."The centre which is teaching 10 languages is planning to include two more foreign languages Arabic and Dutch."Classes will begin next year. All our courses are approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC)," he added.The foreign language speaking courses are expected to start in June.For details contact Dr K Eresi at the Centre for Global languages, Prasanna Kumara Block, Central College Campus, Palace Road or call 8022961280.