Local language communication importance
We know that local language communication is vital for effective development action. This is basic, intuitive reasoning of course. But, specific to India there is also compelling research data, for example: Political Economy of Government Responsiveness: Theory and Evidence from India - a bit old but still relevant. This recent blog posted on The Communication Initiative platform: Mother tongue: boosting maternal health through mobile phones provides further compelling insights about the vital nature of local language communication in all senses - not just translation but resonance with local, cultural "touchstones" through those languages. Question: How do you assess the attention and priority that Development agencies have provided for local language as a communication priority? Please do comment and share your perspectives.
Comments
Local Language really plays a crucial role in social-change
First of all thank you so much for this interesting and most important topic that has been raised up for discussion. Very happy to read the real experiences and how you all are doing the good work in managing to make communication easy for all to access the crucial services and things which are available for the beneficiaries.
We have a non-profit organization Colorss which works in Baroda, Gujarat and Pune, Maharasthra. Here we have to use primarily two languages for making it sure that our projects, educational services, workshops and psychological counseling are successful. Gujarati is used in Baroda and Marathi is used in Pune. Hindi and English languages are used however to make them understand everything in detail and with clarity regional language is mandatory. We have different methods and techniques to train the participants - visual, audio, through puppet shows, through drawings and in both the cities local languages are used extensively.
We are providing self-defense training under our project Mission 1000 across India for free to all the women and girls who can't afford these services. We have to make sure that we have local volunteers who can help translate everything in their respective language so that the training is successful and the participant learn 5-6 self-defense techniques. We also have a stand-alone self-defense app for android. Internet is required only once to download this application. However, this application is pictorial and step-by-step. But the description is in English. We are looking out options where this language barrier can be solved with better technical solutions. Our application is designed by volunteers so we have some limitations to the same. Have a look at the application over here - Colorss' Qucik Self-Defense App
With our experiences so far, knowledge about and ability to use regional language is important for effective communication. With given all the variations, techniques and creativity for alternative ways to communicate and train - regional language yet, remains the base requirement for the same. India is amazing at every 100 Kms the language dialect keeps changing. We need to be aware, connected and understand the root language for that particular area.
Excited to read more informative thoughts which would be shared.
Regards,
Anand
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