Post by University of Mpumalanga

27 May 2026 | UMP, PanSALB and NLU Collaborate to Advance SiSwati The University of Mpumalanga (UMP), the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB), and the Siswati National Lexicography Unit (NLU) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement, to formalise a partnership which advances the use and preservation of Siswati and other official languages in the Province of Mpumalanga. The agreement provides a formal framework for collaboration in lexicographic development, terminology expansion, and language resource management, in line with national language policy and constitutional imperatives. Speaking during the meeting, UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, highlighted the importance of language in shaping identity and belonging, saying: “Language gives people dignity, identity, and a sense of belonging.” Acting PanSALB CEO, Mr Julius Jabavu Dantile, added: “The core mandate of the dictionary unit is to develop the language, ensure that it is properly recorded, and make it accessible for use within and beyond the institution.” The initiative reflects UMP’s commitment to African languages, multilingual scholarship, and the Africanisation of knowledge systems. #UMPLanguages #Siswati #PanSALB #AfricaMonth #AfricanLanguages