UKZN hosts Ukhozi FM for language usage workshop
"Language Usage on the Radio" was the title of a recent one-day training workshop hosted by the University Language Planning and Development Office (ULPDO) in partnership with Ukhozi FM.
As part of the university’s language development and transformation efforts, the workshop was aimed at reskilling and equipping Ukhozi FM announcers, DJs, content producers and print media professionals, as well as translators, on the correct usage of the isiZulu language when speaking, writing or translating. The workshop was also to inform them and the broader community of the latest developments with regard to ULPDO’s new human language technologies – a freely available digital resource that provides isiZulu terminology for a variety of disciplines.
Panellists included Ukhozi FM veteran broadcaster, Vicky Masuku; renowned author of isiZulu books, novels, poetry, essays, short stories and children's books, Professor OEHM Nxumalo; retired teacher and lecturer, Nhlanhla Xala; author and member of the isiZulu National Lexicography Unit, Dr Mpumelelo Mbatha; and African Languages senior lecturer, Dr Gugu Mazibuko, who directed the programme.
In his welcome, UKZN Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, Professor Sandile Songca, said the use of Nguni languages in the media has played a huge role in inclusivity. He said Nguni language speakers can now participate in economic, societal and social news debates, information gathering and utilisation.
He said there are a plethora of methods that can be used in developing these languages. He assured everyone that the UKZN executive is fully behind the project of intellectualising African languages. He further said the university language board, of which he is a chair, is busy finalising the revision of the university language policy and plan, envisaged to be publicised in 2023.
Speaking on behalf of Ukhozi FM, Mandla Mdletshe, acting Programmes Manager, said the isiZulu language continues to grow and the radio station appreciates the opportunity to learn about new language developments. He said other languages like isiXhosa have grown, especially in sports. "We need to get to that level if we have not yet reached it." He proposed that an MOU must be signed to formalise the relationship between the station and the university.
Nxumalo said the isiZulu language should be inclusive, citing examples of other nations that do not water down their languages. He said there are a number of changes and improvements that would need to be done on the radio, but advised experts in the audience to advise regularly and not wait for formal gatherings to voice their concerns.
Xala spoke about strategies for translating text and demonstrated to the audience the do’s and don’ts of translating. He warned translators against literal translations, taking away the meaning of the original text, and encouraged them to be mindful of the sector they are translating for and to consider the culture of the language they are translating to.
Veteran broadcaster Masuku encouraged radio personalities to speak the language purely when on the radio, without adding other languages unnecessarily. Commending the university, she said: "Gatherings like this help us improve on our language." She reminded radio broadcasters that audiences trust and listen to whatever is said on radio as they trust them to have the correct information.
Mbatha reminded the participants that this is the third workshop since 2018 and urged all stakeholders to come up with a way forward, saying languages are rich and grow regularly; however, it is not possible to know every word in a particular language.
In his closing remarks, ULPDO Director, Khumbulani Mngadi, thanked Ukhozi FM for making it possible to have the workshop and taking part in growing the isiZulu language. Mngadi said the university aims to fully teach, research and examine in isiZulu by 2040. He said because isiZulu is the largest spoken Nguni language in the country, the university must make sure it stays ahead. "That is why we work with you. This is our contribution for coming generations."
He encouraged workshop participants to take advantage of all the available ULPDO resources, including the UKZN Term Bank. He said the office has also published seven books in isiZulu that are available to the public.
The workshop was attended by representatives from the KwaZulu-Natal Departments of Arts, Sports and Culture, the Provincial legislature, eThekwini and Umsunduzi Municipalities, PanSALB, Usiba, the Durban University of Technology, University of Zululand, Mangosuthu University of Technology, UKZN staff and students, retired school inspectors and retired isiZulu professors.
Words: Sithembile Shabangu