During the belated Matabeleland South Provincial International Mother Language Day commemorations at Gwanda Government Secondary School, a vibrant call was made to learners and educators alike to fortify their native tongues through arts and technology. Percy Vela, a notable National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) programmes officer, emphasized the identity-preserving power of indigenous languages and advocated for their integration into educational curriculums, starting from primary education.
Embracing Indigenous Languages through Arts
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from learners and teachers, showcasing a diverse range of performances including poetry, theater, and dance, all aimed at celebrating linguistic diversity. Vela’s address underscored the Government’s efforts in promoting multilingual education, highlighting the inclusion of Zimbabwe’s 16 official languages in school syllabuses. He stressed the importance of performing arts as a dynamic medium for language preservation and promotion, urging students to engage in cultural expressions that resonate with their linguistic heritage.
Technology as a Catalyst for Language Preservation
Aligned with this year’s theme, ‘Using technology for multilingual learning: challenges and opportunities,’ the commemorations also brought to light the significant role of digital platforms in the promotion of indigenous languages. Speakers, including Gwanda District’s long-life learning coordinator, Mrs. Abigirl Ncube, articulated the strides made in incorporating technology into language learning. Ncube highlighted the necessity for students to leverage digital spaces, not only as a means of learning but also as a vital tool in safeguarding linguistic diversity for future generations.
Legislative Support and Future Directions
The event also served as a platform to discuss the recently adopted Principles for the Languages Bill, underlining the Government’s commitment to multilingualism and the respect for language rights. With the establishment of institutional structures like the National Languages Board and the National Languages Fund, Zimbabwe is poised to make significant advances in the recognition and promotion of its cultural wealth through language. The discussions pointed towards a future where linguistic diversity is not only celebrated but is seen as a cornerstone of national identity and development.
The belated commemorations of the International Mother Language Day in Gwanda have not only highlighted the critical role of indigenous languages in cultural preservation and identity but also the evolving landscape of language education in Zimbabwe. Through the synergy of arts, education, and technology, the country is carving a path towards a multilingual future, ensuring that its linguistic heritage thrives for generations to come. As Zimbabwe continues to embrace its diverse linguistic tapestry, the global community watches and learns the importance of nurturing language as a vessel of cultural identity and unity.
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