Social demand for learning a foreign language in higher education

Abstract

Introduction. The expediency of the amplification of foreign language training in universities in order to meet the labour market demand is considered in the article. Theoretical analysis. The study is based on the analysis of scientific publications and the sociological survey of students of the State University of Management. The authors hypothesize that English will continue to be the lingua franca, while Eastern languages will grow in popularity. Empirical analysis. The conducted research confirms that the key factor for learning a foreign language is the current sociopolitical and economic conditions. Students recognize the value of English as the main tool of global professional communication, but show a growing interest in the Chinese language, mainly as an additional discipline. Conclusion. Language training at a university should maintain its focus on English as the main language of professional communication, while integrating the study of sought-after languages (primarily Chinese) through elective courses and vocational training programmes.