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Annell Dyfri and Iolo Cheung have presented a report indicating that while the attitudes of young people towards the Welsh language are positive, English remains the dominant language used by teenagers on social media. The report, to be released at the Urdd Eisteddfod, surveyed approximately 1600 youngsters and found that the majority communicate primarily in English on social platforms, even when conversing with fellow Welsh speakers. It pointed out the limited usage of Welsh outside of school, but noted its prevalence in activities like sports.
Welsh Language Commissioner Efa Gruffudd Jones responded to the report, acknowledging the significant challenges it highlighted, but also recognizing the potential opportunities it identified. Cai Saunders, a 16-year-old student at Treorchy Comprehensive School, shared his experience of practicing Welsh with friends through a group chat before lessons and exams. Despite the prevalence of English on social media, Cai and his peers are actively engaging in Welsh language communication.
Among the interviewed students, Cerys from Ysgol Gyfun Gwent Is Coed spoke about the challenges faced by friends attending English schools due to the lack of Welsh-speaking environments at home. Similarly, Mathew Franklin mentioned the limited opportunities to converse in Welsh with friends outside of school, emphasizing the importance of using the language more frequently. Participants like Cari Lovelock highlighted the significance of the younger generation in promoting Welsh language and culture, underscoring its importance for traditions like the Eisteddfod.
The report, based on the insights of 1600 children and young people, emphasizes the overall positive attitude towards the Welsh language, particularly among those fluent in it. While the use of Welsh outside of school is limited, its prevalence in sporting activities demonstrates potential avenues for language promotion. The findings underscore the importance of expanding opportunities for young people to use Welsh naturally, both within and outside the school environment. The Welsh Language Commissioner and other stakeholders aim to address the challenges presented by social media and explore strategic partnerships to foster language use among the youth
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