Abstract
Ph.D. (African Languages)
The main concern of this study has to do with the investigation of linguistic variation and
standardization in Setswana. We are of the idea that linguistic variation and standardization
occur as a result of both internal and external factors.
Focus of this study was both on some of those areas inhabited by Batswana both in Botswana
and South Africa. An investigation has been made on the different orthographies used in
these countries. Although their orthographies presently differ, they were initially the same.
They separated after the revision of the 1937 orthography version by the then Tswana
Language Committee in South Africa. But, however, Setswana Standard Orthography 1981
(1981) in Botswana, is the same as Tswana Terminology and Orthography No.3 (1972) in
South Africa. This similarity was caused by the great influence and presence of Professor
E.S. Moloto.
Botswana dependency on South Africa during that time, on language planning may have been
because 'South Africa has more speakers of Setswana, has had larger total resources in
money and manpower, and thus rather naturally took the lead and Botswana ended following
suit' (Janson and Tsonope, 1991:78). During that time, South African policies were directed
by the ideology of the apartheid system. So, 'to ignore linguistic developments in South
Africa was impossible, but to accept them has often been unpalatable and maybe important'
(Janson and Tsonope, 1991:78).
Data collected bear testimony that standard language is what Botswana people really want to
be taught at schools and tertiary institutions. Most of them do not really understand why
their children are expected to use standardized language as formal style. The reason behind
all these is that they were never involved in language planning. Therefore, there is great
need to involve people from different sectors where Setswana is involved. The language
policy for the new South Africa in the future should be written in all official languages not
just in English and Afrikaans only (refer to Government Gazette, 9 May 1997).