SAALT | South African Association for Language Teaching

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Conference Info 2025
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Keynote Speakers

SAALT conference 2025

From Chalkboards to Chatbots

The Organising Committee warmly invites and welcomes all delegates to the SAALT 2025 Annual Conference, to be held at the Nombolo Mdhluli Conference Center, set in Skukuza in the heart of the breathtaking Kruger National Park. This unique venue offers an unparalleled opportunity to share and discuss research while being surrounded by the rich wildlife and serene beauty of one of Africa’s most iconic natural reserves. Amidst the calls of birds and the possibility of spotting the Big Five, Skukuza provides the perfect setting to step away from the demands of everyday life and immerse yourself in both academic exchange and the wonders of nature.

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Meet Our Keynote Speakers

We are proud to welcome a distinguished lineup of keynote speakers who are thought leaders in language teaching, learning, and technology. Their insights will set the tone for engaging discussions and inspire fresh perspectives throughout the conference.

Prof. Dr. Ulrike Jessner-Schmid

Pioneer in multilingualism and third language acquisition research.

Professor at Innsbruck, Pannonia & NWU
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Professor Langa Khumalo

Executive Director of SADiLaR, North-West University.

Leader in digital language resources and African language policy.

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Prof. Dr. Kris Van de Poel

Expert in cross-cultural communication and academic language education.

Professor, University of Antwerp
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Brief Background
Prof. Dr. Ulrike Jessner-Schmid

Prof. Dr. Ulrike Jessner-Schmid holds professorships in Austria, Hungary, and South Africa, and is internationally renowned for her groundbreaking work in multilingualism and third language acquisition.

Co-author of A Dynamic Model of Multilingualism, she has shaped the field through her pioneering research, editorial leadership, and focus on metacognition in multilingual learning. Her work continues to influence language education theory and practice worldwide.

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Professor Langa Khumalo

Professor Langa Khumalo is the Executive Director of SADiLaR at North-West University and a prominent figure in African language policy and digital linguistics.

With a PhD in Linguistics and extensive leadership roles across national and continental bodies, he has advanced multilingualism through academic, strategic, and technological initiatives. His work bridges traditional language studies with digital innovation, making him a key voice in language planning and development in Africa.

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Prof. Dr. Kris Van de Poel

Prof. Dr. Kris Van de Poel is a specialist in academic and professional communication, based at the University of Antwerp.

With deep experience leading international education projects and academic language centres, she focuses on how language fosters connection across cultures. Her work is grounded in decades of teaching, research, and leadership that underscore the vital role of language in global professional contexts.