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Speakers of Sesotho and language learners worldwide can now access the language on the uTalk app, thanks to two Basotho scholars who helped bring the project to life.
Hlokomelang Rakojoana from Matelile, Mafeteng, and Tlhaloso Mpopo from Lithabaneng, Maseru, collaborated with the UK-based language learning company while they were in the UK as Chevening scholars. The app uses native speaker audio and interactive games to teach more than 2,500 everyday words and phrases in Sesotho.
uTalk founder and CEO Richard Howeson expressed gratitude for their contribution: “We are immensely grateful to Hlokomelang and Tlhaloso for helping us record and translate the Sesotho language. Having Sesotho on the app means that it can now be used by learners worldwide and be given the international attention it deserves; it will also help Sesotho speakers learn other languages directly from their own tongue.”
Rakojoana described the experience as “something that I had never done before, so it was definitely a new challenge,” while Mpopo added: “This experience was not only rewarding but also opened my eyes to the intricacies of language translation and the power of technology in language learning.”
The pair recorded their voices at uTalk’s London studio over two days in February, reviewing and adding to the company’s existing Sesotho translations.
The app allows users to record and compare their pronunciation with native speakers and includes memory-boosting games and thematic lessons covering topics such as social phrases, technology, and food and drink.
Basotho teachers who tested the app in Wales also praised its impact. David Ralebese said: “I used the Sesotho app to teach basic words and the learners were eager to learn and also wanted to teach others what they had learned. It was interesting to see their curiosity in knowing Sesotho.”
Emmanuel Lebakae added: “I taught the junior leadership team using Sesotho app, how to say some Sesotho basic phrases and they enjoyed so much.”
The uTalk app, which offers lessons in more than 160 languages, aims to support both minority and mainstream languages.
Summary
Speakers of Sesotho and language learners worldwide can now access the language on the uTalk app, thanks to two Basotho scholars who helped bring the project to life.
The app allows users to record and compare their pronunciation with native speakers and includes memory-boosting games and thematic lessons covering topics such as social phrases, technology, and food and drink.
“I used the Sesotho app to teach basic words and the learners were eager to learn and also wanted to teach others what they had learned.
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