Pravasi Samwad Exclusive:
A Cultural Milestone for Mauritius: This initiative is expected to encourage young learners to take pride in their roots and inspire further research and cultural activities centered around Bhojpuri
PRAVASISAMWAD.COM
In a landmark initiative aimed at promoting cultural preservation and linguistic heritage, the government of Mauritius is pushing for the inclusion of Bhojpuri as an examinable subject at the ‘O’ level under Cambridge International Education.
This move, along with efforts to introduce Indian Music and Dance at the same level, highlights Mauritius’ commitment to celebrating its diverse cultural roots through education.
Dr. Mahend Gungapersad, Minister of Education and Human Resources in Mauritius, confirmed the development during the recent Cambridge Annual Assessment Review Meeting.
His discussions with officials from Cambridge International and educational institutions in the UK were centered around strengthening the partnership with the Mauritius Examinations Syndicate and enhancing the local education framework. Among the top priorities was the introduction of Bhojpuri at the secondary school level, marking a historic moment for the Indo-Mauritian community.
“Our focus is to create meaningful pathways for learners and integrate indigenous and diaspora-linked languages like Kreol Morisien and Bhojpuri into the formal education system,” said Dr. Gungapersad.
He added that syllabus development for Bhojpuri, Indian Music, and Dance is currently underway in collaboration with Cambridge, as part of a broader strategy to diversify subject offerings and recognize the island’s multicultural identity.
With this move, Mauritius reinforces its role as a model for cultural inclusivity and educational innovation, where tradition and modernity go hand in hand
Why Bhojpuri Matters in Mauritius
Bhojpuri, an Indo-Aryan language with roots in eastern India, is spoken by millions across the Indian diaspora, especially in Mauritius, Suriname, Fiji, and the Caribbean.
It came to Mauritius with indentured laborers in the 19th century and has since evolved into a vital cultural and linguistic symbol of identity for many Mauritians of Indian origin.
Dr. Sarita Boodhoo, Chairperson of the Bhojpuri Speaking Union and a prominent socio-cultural leader in Mauritius, hailed the government’s bold step.
“I salute your willingness to take Bhojpuri to higher levels and integrate it into the formal school system. This is a courageous and visionary decision,” she said in her message to the Minister.
Dr. Boodhoo has been a lifelong advocate of Bhojpuri heritage. She founded the Mauritius Bhojpuri Institute in 1982, an NGO that significantly contributed to reviving interest in Bhojpuri through cultural events and popular media, such as the song ‘Pani Nai Ba’ and nationwide Bhojpuri weeks.
The integration of Bhojpuri into the Cambridge curriculum not only elevates the language’s academic stature but also signals international recognition of the linguistic heritage of Mauritian citizens.
