By Phenyo Mokgothu and Bonolo Monaisa
The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research niche area hosted an International Association for Minority Language Media Research conference (IAMLMR) from 9 to 11 July 2024.
This second hybrid conference, themed “Minority language media in uncertain times”, brought together scholars, postgraduate students and key figures in academia to discuss pressing issues Conference sessions featured a diverse array of presentations, covering topics relating to indigenous language preservation, promotion and restoration within the media space. Scholars showcased their innovative research, contributing to the ongoing discourse on the future of minority language media in Africa.
The conference also highlighted the essential role of the ILMA niche area, a unique research entity within the NWU.
Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, the NWU’s deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, underscored the importance of research and innovation in addressing the challenges faced by minority language media. He praised the collaborative efforts within the NWU and the broader academic community to push the boundaries of knowledge and to drive positive change in these critical areas, especially since minority issues are often marginalised.
“I feel very honoured and privileged to be part of this discourse to witness what researchers and scholars in minority languages are actually involved in,” said Prof Mphahlele.
The deputy dean for teaching and learning in the Faculty of Humanities Prof Mpho Chaka underscored the importance of promoting indigenous languages through teaching and learning.
“As a faculty we actively identify activities in line with the multilingual language policy of the NWU. We promote indigenous languages for teaching and learning as it is critical for creating an inclusive educational environment where all students can thrive,” added Prof Chaka.
Prof Abiodun Salawu, director of ILMA, said it was a delight to host the conference.
“Very interesting presentations were made, and both established and emerging scholars from diverse places across the globe presented papers.”
He added that, apart from the scholarly engagement, participants were also treated to a film show about the struggle for survival of the Basque language, and had the opportunity to network and enjoy themselves at the Gala Dinner.
“During the last part of the conference we also launched a book – the product of the first conference our research entity organised in 2021. We also launched our journal, the International Journal of Indigenous Language Media and Discourse,’’ said Prof Salawu.
“As the NWU continues to lead the way, the insights and collaboration from this conference are set to shape the future of media and communications in Africa, ensuring that minority languages remain vibrant and influential in an ever-evolving global landscape.”
Some of the attendees of the International Association for Minority Language Media Research (IAMLMR) conference.
