In his inspirational message during the recognition ceremony of the Ten Outstanding Cebuano Award at the Sacred Heart Center last night, Nemenzo said abstract concepts, specifically in the field of Mathematics and Science, are best explained in the native language, perceiving this to be the reason why our neighboring countries like Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, and Korea are one of the most economically progressive countries in the world.
"A good mathematician should know the logic in using the formula and this is where the use of native language is effective," Nemenzo said.
According to him, the use of English language in teaching Mathematics and Science is a "waste of time."
"Proficiency in English is mistaken as knowledge. It is mistaken for intelligence. And I think that causes a big drawback to our education," Nemenzo said.
He cited the special education given by the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study once every four years to 45 countries around the world where the recent results showed that Philippines ranked 43rd, indicating how poorly the Filipino students have fared in mathematics and science subjects compared to their Asian contemporaries who hardly speak good English at all.
Nemenzo discourages the common practice where one easily speaks of English language to rise in the social ladder but forgetting of the native tongue in the process.
"Daghan tawo nga di na ganahan magbinisaya and this is a sign of a dying language. We should endeavor to intellectualize our native language as an effective medium for discourse," he said.
In relation to this, he is asking for support on the plan to create Cebu Language and Cultural Center in the University of the Philippines to promote the usage not only of international language (English) and national language (Tagalog) but also of the native language, such as the Visayan dialect.
Nemenzo, who served as president of UP for 42 uninterrupted years, is one of those given recognition by Catholic radio station dyRF as one of the outstanding Cebuanos for 2004 for his significant contributions in the field of education.
The six other TOCA recipients who have excelled in their respective endeavors are Justice Alfredo Marigomen (judiciary), Brig. Gen. Antonio Seville (government service), Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Robert Go (management), Archt. Jose Mabugat (community service), Mandaue City Councilor Carlo Fortuna (public service), and Jaime Vistar (enterpreneurship).
Unlike in the past five years, TOCA only has seven recipients this year. There are no awardees in the field of engineering, medicine, and accountancy. - Cristina C. Birondo.