Writer launches book to guide South Sudanese in English language

By Denis  Eluju

 A South Sudanese writer Kenyi Spencer has launched a new book aimed at guiding the public on proper use of the English language.

He disclosed that the book “English Language for Professional” will help several South Sudanese who write and speak broken English to be fluent in the language.

 “This book particularly addresses our young students at secondary and college level, it is about formal communication, that is where we have the frontier for approaching all issues related to development,” Spencer told Juba Echo in an interview in Juba on Friday.

Spencer said the book will improve on the poor reading culture in the country.

 “It is about simple communication, when you engage in negotiation be it peace you can pass the message efficiently if you have the right language,” he said.

He disclosed that people like to hear things put straight without interruption, meandering around or using terminology which is not fitting, adding that people cannot continue talking South Sudanese version of English.

“There is no way we can continue talking South Sudanese English and yet not many people listen to it outside there. This is one of the things that destroys our English and it gives us mistrust from outside,” he revealed.

Spencer said that it took him five years to compile the book, which he believes will help professionals, officials, teachers, students and journalists.

“You cannot expect somebody to pay attention to what you are saying because you have messed up the language, we can still rescue the young generation so that the next generation of communicators will be effective,” he said.

Spencer holds a PHD in Environmental Economics, Master’s Degree in Environmental Management, Postgraduate Diploma in Ecology, Degree of Environmental Science and a Professional Certificate in International Trade.

He is the author of several science books and novels including “The Twisted Gift”.