Mission and vision of the Department
The importance of English Language is unquestionable given that the language is among the few languages used internationally (become global language) as a medium of communication and all forms of interaction (economic, political, etc) between nations across countries and continents. Its teaching at undergraduate level in countries like Ethiopia becomes inevitable to produce citizens capable of working at global level to aid the development of the country in every affair. Providing training in English Language and Literature at undergraduate level in Universities like Jimma, which aspires to become premier in the country, respected in Africa and renown in the world, is also an indubitable issue as it aids in achieving its mission.
The Department of English Language and Literature works towards achieving the mission of the country at large and university in particular by producing qualified individuals with the required competence. This curriculum includes the modules and courses designed to provide competence based training. It is believed that students should have adequate training and practice in the subject matter to thrive in the modern employment market. Among others, students should know about how human language functions. They also need to know about the principles that guide the scientific study of language. In addition, they need to practice different levels of writing, reading, listening, and speaking in English. The candidates must have also the opportunity to engage in oral communication in a variety of situations and develop the oral communication skills necessary to be able to transfer the same skills to their job. They also require analyzing literary texts and conducting research to solve problems. In general, the candidates must have full mastery of the target language so that they have the competence and confidence to use the language for their purposes.
The curriculum is designed focusing on the competencies the graduates need to attain by integrating English Language knowledge and skills, and aspires to effectively prepare professionals for diverse job opportunities in the areas where the country needs skilled professionals. There is a great need for English Language specialists in various areas such as public relations, communications, interpretations, etc.
Professional Profile
The program aspires to produce graduates who can give professional services to governmental and non-governmental organizations, private companies and different institutions. More specifically: perform public relations and related activities ; write various types of reports ( e.g., brochures, annual reports, magazines, work and performance evaluation reports etc.); write discourses of science and technology (e.g., preparing manuals, guidelines, teaching materials etc.);
- Translate scientific and literary works)
- Edit various documents;
- Manage media and related activities;
- Do research and report in language related areas;
- Prepare memos, minutes and business communication activities; Become languages analyst
- Promote socio-cultural and linguistic elements of a language; Make reviews of various texts
- Criticize literary works.
2 Graduate Profile
On completion of the program, graduates would have the following competences and can:
- Use English with high level of accuracy and fluency in (listening, speaking, reading, and writing);
- Make critical analysis of English language texts and discourse;
- Prepare seminars, forums and facilitate discussions and meetings in English;
- Use appropriate English for business communications (writing memos, letters, minutes, reports, presentations, notices etc.);
- Interpret discourses and translate from and into the English language; Write, edit, and review various texts;
- Conduct a professional and critical analysis of literary works; Conduct research; Facilitate and run public relations.