A language offers a window to the soul of a people, their unique knowledge systems and culture. Indigenous languages in particular are, by their nature, lyrical and poetic and most importantly, carry the weight of the rich cultural history of its people with ease.
The promotion of a multilingual society is espoused in the South African Constitution, through which the Pan South African Language Board is established and speaks directly to the freedom of expression, culture, education, access to information, equality and human dignity. However, upholding the values of multilingualism and elevating the status of indigenous languages, is an ideal no single institution can fulfil on its own.
Thankfully, plans are afoot and nearing fruition for SASL’s officialisation process, following some presentations to the constitutional Review Committee of Parliament, for the constitutional amendment of Section 6 to also include SASL as the 12th official language. Priority should be given and extensive resources channelled towards the preservation of indigenous languages that face extinction.
For indigenous languages to not only survive but to thrive in the ever-changing technological era, our language policies have to effectively capture the spirit of the times we are in and adapt to ensure their longevity and development.
U left sign language