Using Indigenous Languages forTeaching:Tama Language

Abstract

The question of which language(s) could be used for teaching and learning is a crucial one in bilingual and multilingual contexts. In former colonial countries, it is a question that has occupied the agendas of many governments since they attained independence. Some countries have made strides towards addressing it (e.g., Tanzania and Nigeria), although it continues to haunt others. In Sudan there are similar cases of indigenous languages, namely the Tama Language in Dar Tam. Tama is such a small minority in Dar Fur that is increasingly growing in numbers and importance. Tama people believe that their language can at least be used at lower levels of general education if an adequate writing system is devised. A number of studies have been conducted in this domain all have the objectives of creating an effective writing system that will Tama young learners to use their language in education. Young learners are already familiar with the Arabic script as they have been exposed to glorious Guran in Khalawa (a pre-school setting). Arabic script can be suggested as the best type of script to be used for writing Tama language.