A needs analysis of ESP in textile engineering profession in Ethiopian context

Abstract

This study investigated the English language needs of textile industries in Ethiopia so as to help prepare the students in textile engineering which is currently one of the popular fields at the university level. The data were collected from six textile companies that were selected randomly. Through 156 questionnaires and from interview with eight General Managers, Human Resource Managers and section leaders on the tasks performed in English and the English language needs of the textile industries further information were collected. The results indicate that the textile companies perform many activities using English; therefore, speaking, reading and writing skills are necessary for professionals in the textile fields to function properly in their working environments. Consequently, appropriately designed ESP courses could build textile professionals’ capacity through needs-based language skills development.