Two of the Drum Café performers
Mr Chris Swepu (PanSALB), Dr Britta Zawada, Prof Mandla Makhanya & Dr Gerda Mischke enjoying the presentation
|
Learning to speak an African language has never been easier
Unisa's latest initiative, its new website where you can learn some basic phrases in an African language free of charge, was launched on Monday 23 March 2009 in the ZK Matthews Hall.
In his welcome address, Prof Mandla Makhanya reminded us of the words of Nelson Mandela: "If you speak to a man in a language he understands, it goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart." In view of these wise words, Unisa has taken up the challenge of providing all South Africans, or any visitor to South Africa for that matter, the opportunity to learn --- free of charge --- some basic skills in an African language of their choice.
According to Mr Chris Swepu, Acting CEO of the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) and guest speaker at the event, "Unisa is taking centre stage in the promotion and development of indigenous languages" --- something PanSALB is very excited about. Mr Swepu stressed the importance of South Africa using a number of its official languages to welcome 2010 World Cup visitors to the country, and to give them the opportunity to experience the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of our country.
Dr Gerda Mischke, the project coordinator, believes that it has never been easier to learn an African language, since the website offers a choice of 5 African languages, namely Northern Sotho, Southern Sotho, Tswana, Xhosa and Zulu. The phrases you will learn are relevant to anyone who would like to learn some basic phrases in an African language. The courses are structured according to themes, such as "Greetings and courtesies", "Transport and finding your way" and "Shopping and sport". Learning takes place by means of text, sound and video clips. No registration is necessary and progress is measured through self-assessment.
The audience was treated to a beautiful poem written and delivered by Mrs Danisile Ntuli from the Department of African Languages, and a colourful musical display by the Drum Café performers.
The free basic online courses can be accessed online from anywhere in the world simply by going to www.unisa.ac.za/free_online_course and clicking on the language of your choice.
By means of this initiative, Unisa is affirming its position as the African university in the service of humanity. |
