Thelandofpapua.com – In a concerted effort to preserve and revitalize regional languages, the Papua Language Center recently conducted a coordination meeting with local governments spanning from March 5 to 7, 2024. The event, held at the Suni Sentani Hotel in Jayapura Regency, saw participation from representatives of local administrations hailing from 10 cities and regencies across six provinces in Papua.

Head of the Papua Language Center, Sukardi Gau, emphasized the significance of this collaborative endeavor, stating, “This year, 2024, is a coordination phase where we need to sit down together to discuss the steps we are taking to ensure that local languages remain alive and thriving.”

The initiative follows the launch of the 17th Independence to Learn program and focuses on implementing the Local Language Revitalization program through three integral stages: survey and coordination, learning and training, and performances and festivals.

Gau highlighted the shared responsibility in preserving regional languages, stressing the pivotal role of local governments alongside the Papua Language Center, representing the Ministry of Education and Culture, in facilitating coordinated efforts. “Law Number 24 of 2009 clearly states that the development, fostering, and protection of regional languages are the responsibility of local governments,” Gau reiterated.

Throughout the coordination meeting, participants pledged a joint commitment toward the local language revitalization program, particularly targeting the preservation of ten local languages in the areas concerned.

Looking forward, Gau expressed hope for collective steps and commitments in the regional language preservation program, urging involvement from various sectors including cultural and traditional leaders, religious figures, artists, academics, school supervisors, principals, teachers, literacy activists, parents, and children.

The culmination of the event saw the signing of a joint agreement formulation, symbolizing the commitment of all stakeholders involved. The Papua Language Center vowed to diligently oversee the implementation of this agreement to ensure the program’s efficacy and success.

As efforts continue to safeguard and promote regional languages, this collaborative initiative stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment toward preserving linguistic diversity and cultural heritage in Papua.