On a common framework of reference for teaching Amharic

International audience The objective of this presentation is to propose a Common Framework of Reference for Teaching Amharic as a Foreign Language (AFL). The implementation of this framework would serve to standardize and improve the comparability of students' progress for the language. Despite its long-standing presence in European universities, where it has been taught for over a century, Amharic remains without a comprehensive, universally recognized system for teaching its intricacies, encompassing grammar, vocabulary, and communicative skills. Despite the implementation of diverse language teaching methodologies, a standardized framework to guide educators and learners remains elusive. This presentation will introduce the ongoing development of a Common Framework of Reference for Teaching Amharic as a Foreign Language (AFL). This framework is designed to align with the principles of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It addresses the critical need for standardized proficiency descriptors and learning objectives within the AFL context, and outlines a framework built upon principles of communicative language teaching, task-based learning, and cultural integration. This ensures that the language is taught in a contextually and culturally relevant and effective manner. The objective of this initiative is to establish a structured framework that facilitates consistent curriculum design, assessment, and pedagogical practices. The presentation will entail an exposition of the preliminary steps that have been undertaken, with an emphasis on the evolution of proficiency levels and the corresponding descriptors that have been tailored to the Amharic language. The framework under consideration provides a structured yet flexible model for teaching Amharic. The stated aim of this framework is to provide AFL teachers with a valuable tool for promoting effective and transparent language learning outcomes.