The teaching of the Marathi language in Mauritius has played a vital role in preserving the cultural identity of the Marathi community for more than a century. Through the combined efforts of the Government of Mauritius, the Mahatma Gandhi Institute (MGI), the Mauritius Institute of Education (MIE), the Marathi Speaking Union (MSU), the Mauritius Marathi Cultural Centre Trust (MMCCT), the Mauritius Marathi Mandali Federation (MMMF), Maratha Mandir, Marathi Sahitya Parishad, and numerous affiliated mandalis, Marathi education continues to flourish from primary school to university level.

Primary School Marathi

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Formal Marathi education in Government primary schools began in 1909, when Indian ancestral languages were officially introduced into the national education system. Marathi became one of the recognised Oriental Languages initially taught after normal school hours before gradually becoming part of the formal school curriculum. Since then, thousands of Mauritian students have learned to read, write and speak Marathi, ensuring that the language continues to be passed from one generation to the next.

Secondary School Marathi

 

While Marathi was offered in a few secondary institutions before, a major milestone was reached with the establishment of the Mahatma Gandhi Institute (MGI). The foundation stone of the Institute was laid on 3 June 1970, and it was officially inaugurated on 9 October 1976. MGI became the country's principal institution responsible for the promotion, teaching and examination of Indian languages, including Marathi. Through its programmes, students have been able to pursue Marathi as an academic subject at secondary level while gaining a deeper appreciation of Maharashtra's literature, history and culture.

Tertiary Education

 

As Marathi studies expanded, the Mahatma Gandhi Institute introduced higher education programmes that enabled students to pursue the language academically and professionally. Over the years, MGI has offered a range of qualifications including Diploma in Marathi Studies, Bachelor of Arts (Marathi), Bachelor of Arts (Marathi with Education), Master of Arts (Marathi), as well as research programmes. Since the late 1970s, these courses have contributed significantly to the development of qualified educators, researchers and scholars who continue to enrich the Marathi language in Mauritius.

Teacher Training

 

The continued success of Marathi education depends on well-trained teachers. Teacher training in Mauritius dates back to the establishment of the Teachers' Training College in 1942 and later the Mauritius Institute of Education (MIE) in 1973, which assumed responsibility for teacher education. In 2003, the former Teacher's Certificate was replaced by the Teacher's Diploma Programme (TDP) for all new primary school educators, including those specialising in Marathi. This modern programme ensures that Marathi teachers receive comprehensive pedagogical training while maintaining high standards in language instruction.

Continuing the Legacy

 

Today, Marathi education remains one of the strongest pillars of the community's cultural preservation. Supported by educational institutions, cultural organisations and dedicated teachers, it enables young Mauritians to discover not only the language but also the rich literary, historical and spiritual heritage of Maharashtra. Through classroom learning, cultural activities, competitions and community initiatives, Marathi continues to inspire pride, strengthen identity and connect future generations with their ancestral roots.

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Milestones in Marathi Education

• 1909 – Marathi officially introduced into Government primary schools as an Oriental Language.

• 1970 – Foundation stone laid for the Mahatma Gandhi Institute.

• 1976 – Mahatma Gandhi Institute inaugurated, strengthening Marathi education at secondary and tertiary levels.

• Late 1970s–1980s – Introduction and expansion of Diploma, Degree and Postgraduate programmes in Marathi.

• 2003 – Teacher's Diploma Programme (TDP) introduced, replacing the Teacher's Certificate for primary school teachers, including Marathi specialists.

 

This educational journey reflects the unwavering commitment of the Mauritian Marathi community to preserving its language, literature and cultural heritage through learning and lifelong education.