Part I.pdf - MTB-MLE Network

materials for minority language groups in Assam asa contribution to the eradication of illiteracy. For its firstproject, the SRC has begun materials development in the Rabhalanguage.Outcomes of the projectOne of the main aims of the project has been to produceeducational materials in the Rabha language. SRC Assam hasproduced five bilingual books and three primers withhandbooks/teacher’s manuals. These have been well-received.This has motivated others to publish Rabha language materials.A significant outcome is that other ethnic minority communitieshave now approached SRC Assam to help facilitate activitiestowards the preservation of their languages and culture,including the production of literacy materials. In order topromote local ownership and sustain the programme, the Rabhalanguage project is integrated with the existing literacy programmes conducted by the GoalparaDistrict Literacy Committee. In order to bring about economic empowerment in Rabha communities,self-help groups for women have been formed, thus involving the community as a whole in theproject, and women in particular, as a means to build capacity, develop awareness of issues suchas health, universalise primary education, prevent school dropouts, upgrade skills and support theliteracy campaign.Current challengesSince the Rabha language has become standardized with printed matter of its own, the other culturalminorities are discontent and recognize that their dialects face the threat of extinction. The currentdemand for literacy primers is greater than can be currently met.Future PlansThe District Literacy Societies will be responsible for reprinting the teacher training manual thatwas prepared by SRC Assam. This will lead to greater independence for the district societies. TheDistrict Literacy Societies will be given training in conducting literary classes. There is a plan tocomplete an ongoing study of comparative learning abilities among the Rabha population in GoalparaDistrict, Assam.There are many languages in India that do not have written scripts. Mother-tongue education willbecome feasible only when there are learning materials available. In the future, SRC Assam aimsto participate in the preparation of learning materials in these languages.IndonesiaSince 1998, Indonesia has continued to work to improve every aspect of its national life, basingdevelopment upon principles of justice and equality. Government decentralization endorses the16