Language board promotes multilingualism
A pilot project to promote multilingualism is already in place in the Eastern Cape and the intention is to roll it out nationwide.
THE Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) says it hopes to normalise and fast track the participation of using indigenous languages in public spaces.
PanSALB chairperson, Ntshengedzeni Edward Mudau said a pilot project on the initiative to promote multilingualism is already in place in the Eastern Cape and the intention is to roll it out throughout the country.
“We also appeal to municipalities, provincial government departments, public entities and enterprises to provide information that is intended for the public in the languages of the communities it is intended for. Another way we can assist in giving people information in their languages is through interpretation and translation of documents,” Mudau said.
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His comments come as the country celebrates Language Activism Month in February.
The PanSALB board also launched the standardised South African Sign Language version of the National Anthem in partnership with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC).
“The launch of the standardised South African Sign Language version of the National Anthem forms part of a series of programmes and activities that the board will be embarking upon in order to strengthen the representation of the deaf communities in our society.
“These programmes and activities are aimed at ensuring equal access to information and inclusivity among our people as well as promotes multilingualism, which goes a great deal towards the achievement of social cohesion,” he said.
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