Many developing countries teach English as a Foreign Language (EFL), limiting students’ ability to communicate globally. Shifting to an English as a Second Language (ESL) approach would better prepare students for higher education, careers, and the digital economy. Collaborating with international organizations and leveraging digital tools can help enhance ESL education, providing more opportunities for all students.
![]() |
Discover why developing countries should adopt ESL over EFL to improve English skills and provide global opportunities for students. |
Rethinking English Learning in Developing Nations
English is the global language of education, business, and communication. Many developing countries include English in their national curricula. However, they primarily teach it as a foreign language (EFL) rather than a second language (ESL). EFL learning focuses on classroom instruction, with limited practical usage, while ESL encourages real-life communication.
Some countries are making progress in English education. TESOL schools, training programs, and research have been growing in countries like Bangladesh and India. However, most of these programs remain EFL-centric, focusing on grammar, translation, and written exams rather than practical communication.
Some nations offer English Version education, where subjects are taught in English, but this system does not meet expectations, as the teaching methods still rely heavily on memorization rather than real-life English use. Additionally, English-medium schools, often affiliated with international organizations, provide better ESL-based instruction. However, these schools are expensive and only accessible to the wealthy, creating an education gap.
Since English proficiency is crucial for global opportunities, governments in these countries must shift toward an ESL approach, making English education accessible and practical for all students.
Understanding ESL and EFL in TESOL
ESL (English as a Second Language) and EFL (English as a Foreign Language) are two different approaches to teaching English.
-
ESL (English as a Second Language) is taught in countries where English is commonly spoken outside the classroom. Some nations use ESL methodologies because English plays an active role in education, work, and daily interactions.
-
EFL (English as a Foreign Language) is taught in places where English is not commonly spoken in everyday life. Many developing countries use EFL, meaning English is confined to classrooms and textbooks. This often results in students struggling with fluency and real-world communication.
Many TESOL programs in developing countries still follow an EFL-based approach, with a strong focus on grammar, vocabulary drills, and translation rather than immersive English use. This limits students' ability to communicate fluently in global contexts. Shifting TESOL education toward ESL methodologies would make teachers more effective and help students develop real-world language skills.
A key indicator of this EFL vs. ESL gap is performance in English proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE Academic. Students from ESL backgrounds often score higher because they are more accustomed to using English in real-life situations, while EFL learners often focus on memorization rather than communication.
To improve English proficiency, developing nations should transition from EFL to ESL by training teachers, collaborating with international universities, and implementing English immersion programs.
Why ESL Matters in a Globalized World
English is the global language of business, research, and technology. Developing countries that rely on EFL struggle to compete in these areas. Shifting to ESL-based education can significantly improve students’ career prospects, access to higher education, and participation in the digital economy.
Higher Education and Research
English is the primary language for academic research and higher education. Universities in English-speaking countries offer scholarships and research programs that require strong English proficiency.
Many international universities require IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic scores for admission. Since IELTS is controlled by the British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English, students from developing countries must be prepared for its listening, reading, writing, and speaking components.
Although some nations have English-medium education options, these are primarily available to wealthy students. The majority of students still follow an EFL curriculum, making it difficult for them to achieve high scores on tests like IELTS.
TESOL research and training in developing countries are expanding, but they remain **EFL-focused rather than preparing teachers for ESL-based education. Governments should encourage TESOL institutions to adopt ESL methodologies to ensure students receive quality training for global success.
Collaboration with institutions like the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, and global test providers (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic) can help develop ESL-based curricula and teacher training programs in developing nations.
Employment and Career Growth
Multinational companies require employees who can communicate fluently in English. Some countries have successfully integrated ESL into education, leading to job opportunities in IT, business process outsourcing (BPO), customer service, and remote work.
If other developing nations adopt ESL-based education, their workforce will become more competitive in global industries. Many employers also require IELTS or TOEFL certification to assess an applicant’s English skills, making ESL training even more crucial.
Digital and Technological Advancement
Most of the internet, coding languages, and software programs are in English. ESL learning prepares students for careers in freelancing, software development, online businesses, and remote jobs.
Some nations have benefited from ESL-based English training, allowing their populations to thrive in online economies.
Opportunities for ESL Implementation in Developing Countries
International Collaborations
Governments can collaborate with universities and language organizations from English-speaking countries to implement ESL-focused education. Institutions such as:
- British Council (UK) – Co-owner of IELTS and English education provider
- IDP Education (Australia) – Co-owner of IELTS and global English training provider
- Cambridge Assessment English (UK) – IELTS co-owner and TESOL certifier
- ETS (TOEFL, USA) – TOEFL test administrators
- Pearson PTE Academic (UK/USA) – English proficiency test provider
These organizations can provide teacher training, standardized English tests, and language learning materials to developing nations.
Digital Learning Platforms
Students from developing nations can use free or affordable platforms to improve their English skills for tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE Academic. These include:
- Duolingo (USA) – Free gamified English learning and Duolingo English Test.
- IELTS Prep by British Council (UK) – Official IELTS preparation app.
- Coursera & EdX (USA) – Free online ESL courses from universities.
- BBC Learning English (UK) – Audio-visual English lessons.
Additionally, language exchange apps like HelloTalk and Tandem allow students to practice English with native speakers for free.
Funding ESL Education in Developing Countries
To support ESL education, governments in developing nations can explore multiple funding sources:
- Public-Private Partnerships – Collaborate with British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge English to fund teacher training and English learning programs.
- Foreign Aid and Grants – Apply for education grants from UNESCO, World Bank, European Union, and international NGOs.
- Corporate Sponsorships – Partner with global companies looking to invest in English education for workforce development.
- Technology Initiatives – Work with Google for Education, Microsoft Education, and EdTech startups to provide free or subsidized digital English learning tools.
Conclusion
Although many developing countries are making progress, their mainstream education systems still follow EFL, which limits students' real-life English communication skills. TESOL training, research, and institutions are growing, but they remain mostly EFL-centric rather than ESL-based. Shifting to an ESL approach can significantly improve students’ ability to study, work, and compete globally. Many nations have English-medium schools, but these are only accessible to the wealthy, leaving the majority with limited opportunities. By training teachers in ESL methods, governments can ensure that all students, regardless of economic background, receive quality English education. Collaborations with organizations like international language institutions, universities, and global education bodies can provide much-needed support for this transition. Additionally, digital learning platforms and language exchange apps can help students practice English affordably. While funding and policy challenges exist, public-private partnerships and foreign aid can help overcome these barriers. If implemented effectively, an ESL-focused education system will enable students from developing countries to succeed in the globalized world.