Institutionalising African language journalism studies

Abstract

The need for the study of African language media is predicated on the opportunity to understand the practicalities of how the media can be used to support languages under threat; and, in a more academic sense, to appreciate such media for what functions it can perform in society. Apart from their study, the indigenous languages, themselves, have their own purposes. This article advocates for a formal and systematic integration of this sector of the media into Journalism and Media Studies curriculum. This advocacy is pursued with the optimism of the possibility of a theorisation of indigenous language media and the development of a framework within which such media might be considered. The field can be seen within the context of the politics of language and the media's relation to it. Alongside the issue of language survival, we can also situate the field within the praxis of cultural and political self-preservation and identity politics. The field can also be seen within the context of effective and interactive communication, and a vibrant public sphere.