MOYSC empowering local languages

MONKAGEDI GAOTLHOBOGWE
Staff Writer | Saturday May 25, 2013 00:00

 

Speaking in Ghanzi on World Languages Day, Kgathi revealed the Ministry has an advisory committee called the National Languages Committee, which in 2008,  developed a booklet on  the different languages of Botswana. The book is called Our Languages, Our Pride. According to Kgathi, the membership of the committee comprises different Cultural organisations, linguists and cultural activists.He also revealed that his Ministry works closely with the committee and sponsors  cultural organisations committed to promoting the use and documentation of local languages.

Some of these organisations are Tomela Ya Puo, Reteng Multi-Coalition, Mbungu Wa Kathimana, Otjingirini, Kamanakao, Chelwa Ya Shekgalahari, Khwedom Council, and others. Kgathi highlighted the significance of research and documentation of local languages by the communities in modern era.Kgathi paid tribute to University of Botswana academic Professor Thapelo Otlogetswe who has worked on the translation of the Google page to Setswana, Setswana computer spell check, and recently launched a Setswana dictionary.  Dr Monaka who has researched and documented on languages in Western Botswana was also acknowledged.Minister Kgathi also says as a key strategy for supporting language learning and development at local level, his Ministry provides support to communities through the annual arts festivals.

'We support these activities with the hope that communities will use the opportunity to share their cultures through their languages, for posterity,' Kgathi said.Kgathi sees the country's diverse cultures, languages and traditions as invaluable resource to be harnessed.