Mr Jiyana, a lecturer in isiNdebele, African Languages Teaching Methodology, and Culture and Natural Environment, is one of 10 members nominated by the public to join this distinguished committee, established under Section 8(8) of the Pan South African Language Board Act, 1995 (Act No. 59 of 1995).
The MPLC plays a pivotal role in advising PanSALB on language matters relevant to Mpumalanga. This appointment is a notable step towards promoting and preserving indigenous languages in the region.
“The appointment means a lot to me,” says Mr Jiyana. “It reflects recognition by the linguistic community of my passion for developing and promoting isiNdebele in different spheres. It also provides an opportunity to ensure that our historically marginalised languages, Siswati and isiNdebele, officially recognised by the Mpumalanga Provincial Language Act, are given room to grow and flourish.”
As a committed linguist, Mr Jiyana advocates for increased support from the provincial government. He stresses the importance of better resource allocation and enhanced collaboration between UMP and other Higher Education Institutions to protect and promote isiNdebele.
His vision includes the effective implementation of the Mpumalanga Provincial Language Act through practical measures, such as multilingual signage in public spaces and the translation of municipal bills into indigenous languages.
“The preservation and intellectualisation of African languages require the engagement of all stakeholders and users. People should have access to information in their native languages without fear or favour,” he adds.
Mr Jiyana commends UMP’s commitment to language preservation through academic programmes such as the BEd Foundation Phase and BA programmes. “The University of Mpumalanga plays a key role in preserving these languages. I am proud that we, as an institution, are fully committed to promoting their use in academia and research.”
He also highlights the importance of digitisation and terminology development, underscoring the need for collaboration with scholars and experts from diverse fields. Beyond his teaching role, Mr Jiyana serves on various committees, including the UMP Task Team for Language Policy Development, and participates in research projects with Stellenbosch University’s Child Development Node. He is also pursuing further studies, focusing on Digital Humanities in education.
During his tenure, Mr Jiyana and the other committee members will engage in the full range of MPLC activities, advising PanSALB on language-related issues affecting the province.
A passionate advocate of traditional stories in language teaching, Mr Jiyana believes that these narratives hold the potential to transform education. “Reviving indigenous stories can make a significant difference in our children's learning,” he explains. “This is particularly important given recent statistics showing that students in basic education are struggling with reading skills.”
Story by Lisa Thabethe. Picture supplied.