Tharaka University (TUN) was delighted to host Mr. Kelvin Murimi, Language Officer at the Bible Translation & Literacy (BTL), Nairobi, who visited the institution to deliver Kîîtharaka language books and study materials for digitalization in the University Library.
The initiative seeks to promote the study, preservation, and use of the Kîîtharaka language by making books and other learning materials accessible through the Tharaka University E-Library platform, supporting scholars, students, and pupils interested in indigenous language studies.
This milestone forms part of an ongoing research project on the Promotion of Indigenous Language use in Education, led by Dr. Patrick Kanampiu, Ph.D., Lecturer in English and Linguistics at Tharaka University. The project is being implemented in collaboration with Prof. Peter K. Muriungi, Ph.D., TUN Vice-Chancellor and CEO and Prof. Veronica Nyaga, Ph.D., TUN Deputy Vice Chancellor (ARSA), Dr. Alexander Martin (University of Groningen, Netherlands), Prof. Vicky Chondrogianni, and Jennifer Culbertson (University of Edinburgh).
The research is funded by the European Social Research Council (ESRC) Impact Acceleration Account (IAA) Grant through the University of Edinburgh, marking a significant stride in advancing linguistic diversity and cultural preservation through education.
The Kîîtharaka books now mark the beginning of an effort to equip the University Library’s Indigenous Languages Section, which will feature more books in various native languages, both in physical and digital formats, to ensure their preservation for future generations.
Present during the handover were Dr. Daniel Mwangi, Registrar (Academic Affairs); Dr. Patrick Kanampiu, Lecturer, English and Linguistics; Ms. Pauline Masaa, University Librarian and Dr. Kimathi Muembu, COD–Humanities.
Tharaka University continues to champion research, innovation, and cultural preservation as key pillars of education for sustainable development.
