Why learning a language Still Matters in the Age of AI

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Languages are very important because they are the major way we communicate and understand one another. When you are unable to speak or understand another person’s language, it can create a serious communication barrier, and that alone can affect so many things. I remember a particular time when I was sitting with some people who were speaking Igbo. I did not understand a single word they were saying, and I just sat there looking completely lost and confused.

At some point, it even started to feel as if they were talking about me or cussing me out, even though they might not have been. That experience actually made me realize how uncomfortable it is to be in a place where you can not understand the language being spoken.

To be honest, i truly believe that the advancement of AI in translating languages is a very good development because it has made life much easier. It helps people to communicate faster, especially when they find themselves in a place where they do not understand the language. In that kind of situation , where i didn't understand igbo, if i had used a translator, then maybe i wouldn't have felt that much left out.

However, despite all these benefits, I still strongly believe that people should make an effort to learn languages properly by themselves. There is always going to be a big difference between using a translator and actually knowing how to speak a language. When you learn a language yourself, it becomes a part of you, and it would just be easier to relate more with people.

For instance, if someone decides to travel to a French-speaking country like Ivory Coast, life will be much easier if the person can speak and understand French. Communication will be smoother, and the person will not always have to depend on a translator every single time someone speaks to them. It would also help in daily activities like buying things, asking for directions, making friends, and even working. In fact, the locals will respect and appreciate a person more when they see that they can speak their languages effectively.

I have seen a similar situation here in Nigeria with the Hausas. Once they notice that you can communicate with them in their language, they become more friendly and welcoming. Many times, they even treat you differently in a positive way. There are situations where negotiating with them becomes easier, and they reduce the price of what they are selling just because they feel comfortable with you speaking their language. This shows that language is not just for communication; it also helps in building trust and good relationships.

So, even though I truly appreciate the role of
technology and AI in making language translation easy and fast, I still believe it is more advisable for people to try to learn languages themselves. The benefits go far beyond just understanding words. It helps in social interaction, creates opportunities, builds stronger connections, and makes life generally more comfortable, especially when you find yourself in a completely different environment. Learning a language may not be easy, but then i believe the long-term benefits are completely worth the effort.

Thanks for reading.