College of Human Sciences
Unisa launches exciting digital language resource project
In a bid to honour the rich tapestry of South African languages and promote multilingualism, the Department of Linguistics and Modern Languages in Unisa’s College of Human Sciences has embarked on an ambitious project in collaboration with Mzansi Taal, sponsored by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC). This initiative aims to develop digital language resources that celebrate linguistic diversity while fostering unity among communities.
Front row, from left: Tshikani Mabasa (DSAC), Rachel Maboa (Unisa), Hlengiwe Chule (DSAC) and Dr Napjadi Letsoalo (Unisa)
Back row, from left: Dr Kganathi Shaku (Unisa), Onalenna Ditlhake, Kealeboga Sello (Mzansi Taal), Dr Dakalo Takalani (Unisa), Romeo Mahare (DSAC), Neliswa Mzimba (Unisa), Tumisang Moumakoe (Mzansi Taal), Aubrey Chabalala and Jimmy Mabina (Unisa)
The project, which commenced recently and is slated to continue until December 2025, seeks to create tools for compiling and organising lexical data, facilitating communication across language barriers, and providing accessible platforms for exploring and engaging with South African colloquial language.
As a demonstration of support and facilitation, the DSAC team, led by Tshikani Mabasa from the Directorate: Human Language Technologies in the National Language Service, visited the project team on 26 April 2024. The purpose of the visit was to engage in discussions regarding the project's workflow, management methodology, grant conditions, monitoring measures and human capacity development.
Having a team to run the project is crucial as it brings together diverse skills, perspectives and resources, enhancing problem-solving and innovation. Additionally, shared responsibilities within a team foster collaboration, distribute workload efficiently and mitigate risks, which lead to successful project outcomes, remarked Mabasa during the visit. "The team should be diverse and represent more than just one language," he said.
Dr Napjadi Letsoalo, Chair of the Department of Linguistics and Modern Languages at Unisa, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration. "Our partnership with Mzansi Taal and the support from the DSAC mark a pivotal moment in our efforts to promote linguistic diversity and inclusivity,” he said. "Through the harnessing of digital technology, we can create innovative solutions that empower communities to preserve and celebrate their languages."
The project's objectives align closely with the broader national agenda of promoting social cohesion and inclusivity. Through providing resources and tools to facilitate communication across language barriers, the initiative aims to contribute to a more connected and cohesive society.
In addition to developing digital language resources, the project will also focus on capacity building, ensuring that stakeholders possess the skills and knowledge necessary to sustain and expand these initiatives beyond the project's duration.
As the project progresses, it is expected to yield tangible outcomes that benefit not only linguists and academics, but also communities across South Africa. Unisa, Mzansi Taal and the DSAC harness the power of technology and collaboration and work together to preserve linguistic heritage and promote unity in diversity.
* Submitted by Neliswa Mzimba, Department of Linguistics and Modern Languages
Publish date: 2024/05/09
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