19 April 2023
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Story Nonkululeko Nxumalo
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Photo Supplied
TSOHO ‘The Awakening’ – available at the UFS library.
What sets this collection apart is that the students took pride in expressing themselves in not just one, but seven indigenous South African languages, showcasing the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions that make up this vibrant nation.
“We hope that this launch will not only inspire you to read, but also to write, especially in indigenous languages. In that way, we can preserve, promote, and develop our African languages,”
Dina Mashiyane: Head Librarian in the
UFS Library and Information Services (LIS), highlighted during her welcoming speech.
In her message of support, the words of the Director of the Academy for Multilingualism, Dr Nomalungelo Ngubane, echoed the significance of this book, not just as a celebration of creativity and multilingualism, but also as a seed of inspiration that has the potential to grow. “Other young writers will look at you and take that initiative as well, standing proud in their languages,” she added.
Bangodi ‘The Authors’
The authors, whose names are a testament to their unique identities and backgrounds, include Ontlametse Manana Mothobi, Judith Tladi, Paseka Mathonsi, Langelihle Button, Celuxolo Mthembu, Kesaobaka Ncubuka, Modiehi Motseko, Ciliciah Chagane, Siphilangekhosi Dlamini, Tshegofatso Sello Kitso, Tlotlisang David Mhlambiso, and Balisa Nqambuza. These diverse voices are woven together in this anthology to create a symphony of words that will resonate with readers of all backgrounds.
Augmented Reality Feature
TSOHO is not just any ordinary book. With assistance from Thuthukani Ndlovu,
augmented reality developer and alumnus of the UFS, this anthology is an innovative work that pushes the boundaries of traditional literature, embracing the digital age with an augmented reality feature that brings the pages to life.
Through the
Artivive app, readers can experience a digital journey, where images in the book come alive with audio recitals in vernac. This unique fusion of traditional storytelling and modern technology is a testament to the innovative thinking of the African Languages Press, which seeks to promote and preserve indigenous languages across all spheres of human interaction.
Inspiration behind the title
When asked about the inspiration behind the title, Jafta had this to say, “We wanted them to wake up to themselves. To know that they have it within them to express and write in many languages. We have languages, they’re ours and they’re engraved within our DNA. We just wanted them to go into an experience of realisation, of discovery, but mostly to have that moment of awakening to say I too can. That’s why I came up with this title.”
Jafta also mentioned that there would be future cohorts, “This is our first offering, there are still more to come. We’re going to have our second cohort, so be on the lookout, they will be advertising for the next one,” she said.
The book can be found at the UFS library and will soon be available at Exclusive Books.