CELLA International Conference on Multiculturalism and Multilingualism

International Conference on Multiculturalism and Multilingualism

Djeuga Palace Hotel, Yaounde, Cameroon
16th to 17th November 2023 

The focus of this year's conference is on how language and literature influence values in relation to ways in which individuals think, learn, and behave as well as communicate in culturally and linguistically diverse societies. The "influence on mindsets and values" (Cutler, 2005) is a critical aspect of how individuals perceive, acquire and express meaning within and beyond every cultural context.

The cultural and linguistic diversity of Cameroon, and the global village, necessitates not just a recognition but also the respect for different socio-cultural beliefs, behaviors, and identities. Such respect and recognition of the values of each group within a diverse system is likely to lead to their "continued contribution within an inclusive cultural context which empowers all within the organization or society" (Rosado, 1996). While language and literature has traditionally been principal vehicles for the expression of values and belief systems, the recent explosion in multimedia use has created an even greater avenue for the recognition, respects and celebration of difference.

Though multiculturalism and multilingualism are closely related, the interest in multilingualism is based on conceptualizing how an individual’s ability to “… to engage, on a regular basis, with more than one language in their day-to-day lives” (The European Commission, 2007) constitutes both participation in cultural diversity and a resistance against dominant cultures and languages. The conference provides a context for language experts and linguists to investigate the complex layers of convergences and explore broader sociolinguistic questions and ideologies. It provides a framework for literary scholars and critics to examine the sociocultural contexts of texts as well as identity and linguistic backgrounds, norms, and standards in literary and cultural texts of various generations. For interdisciplinary scholars, the conference creates an exciting avenue for exploring and understanding the nexus between their disciplines and the cultural, literary and linguistic pluralism of the global village.

Areas of interest include but are not limited to:

  • Language acquisition/learning,
  • Neurolinguistics
  • Speech processing
  • Communication
  • Language policies;
  • Education
  • Pedagogic practices
  • Collective memory
  • Nationalism and identity
  • Power dynamics
  • Gender and sexuality
  • Cultural nationalism 
  • New languages/literatures
  • Literacy in multiple languages
  • Multi-disciplinarity
  • Social media
  • Literature and creativity 
  • Translation

Proposals for 15 minutes presentations and 1 hour plenary sessions are welcomed. Abstracts of 250 words in MS Word format (Times New Roman, Font size 12) should be submitted to info@cellacameroon.org. Send inquiries via email to info@cellacameroon.org. 

MAJOR ACTIVITIES

Opening ceremony
Keynote Addresses
Paul Mbangwana Annual Lecture (PMAL Maiden Edition) by Professor Samuel Atechi 
Kashim Ibrahim Tala Annual Lecture (KITAL 2023) by Assoc. Professor David T. Kusi 
Plenary Presentations
Closing ceremony
Formal Dinner and Festivities

REGISTRATION FEE

Research scholars: 25.000 FCFA
Research Students: 15.000 FCFA
International Research scholars: $150.00
International Research students: $100.00

CONFERENCE ACCOMODATION
Conference participants will enjoy reduced accommodation costs at comfortable hotels or guest houses.

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