THE IMPORTANCE OF LEARNING ENGLISH LANGUAGE.

English is the most widely used language in the world. Nearly two third of the world population use English language. In countries like England, the U.S.A., Canada, Australia and in several parts of Africa, it is the mother tongue. In many commonwealth countries like Sri Lanka, India and Malaysia it is the second language.

English is important not only as an international language, but also as a language of trade, as a link language, as a language of mass communication, as a second language and a language of everyday life and as a means of obtaining foreign employment.

"English can be regarded as the window to the world." This idea was expressed by the first Prime Minister of India, the late Jawaharlal Nehru.

There are several communities in Sri Lanka. English plays an important role as a link language. It promotes good relations among all the communities. If we know English we can communicate with other ethnic groups easily.

Today the world is highly advanced in science and technology. Almost all the books on these subjects are written in English. If we know English we can read and understand the facts given in these books.

At present, the whole world has become a global village through modern methods of communication such as Telex, Fax, E-mail, Internet and so on. English is the main language that is used in all these media.

As our economy is based mostly on import-export trade, we have to deal constantly with other countries. English is essential for this purpose.

English is essential for higher studies too. Particularly English is essential for courses on medicine, engineering and computer science. Most of the books on these subjects too are written in English. Apart from that, English is used as the official language of communication of all the international organisations such as SAARC, UNO, UNICEF and IMF. Those who participate in these conferences will be able to contribute effectively, if they have a good command of the English language.

Most of the research in medicine, science and technology is carried out in English. The results of this research activities are published in English. Therefore, without a knowledge of English no one can pursue a specialised course of study on these subjects. For those who seek foreign employment too English is indispensable.