Duku Harps on Local Languages in Microsoft Programmes

Hajiya Aishatu Duku, minister of Education has called for the integration of local Nigerian languages in Microsoft windows vista and programme to make the vision 2020 effective.
She said that the integration will help enhance local learning of computer and also fast track technological advancement and productivity in the country, especially now that the world is computer age.
The minister stated this at the presentation of glossaries for the Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba translation of Microsoft windows vista and Microsoft office 2007 to stake holders at Shehu Musa Yar’Adua centre Abuja.
While commending Microsoft for their initiative to eliminate language barrier in the program, she said a child first understand his local language within the environment at the earlier stage.
She said that with the local language program (LLP) teaching and learning technology will be much easier for the people and that a lot needs to be done to make learning in the languages a worth while exercise.
With this development, it is expected that stakeholders Hausa will review the glossary and work with Microsoft to produce the final copy of the glossary to move the LLP to the next level. 
“What Microsoft has done now will be the first step for us to start thinking of how we can developed our languages in order to grow our IT capacity that is poising a serious challenge for teaching and learning technology at the grassroots level” she said.
The minister urged that both English and indigenous language be given full support and encouragement for economic social political and educational development.
Emmanuel Onyeje, the country manager Microsoft said the presentation is a land mark for Microsoft local language programme in Nigeria.
He said that the local language programme is a response that will provide the people of the three regions cultures and language with access to technology in a language that is familiar to them and cultural distinctions.
In his remark Dr. Tunde Adegbola of Adegbola moderator of the localization process in Nigeria gave a brief evaluation of the glossary noting that the glossary and language interface pack will equip local IT communities with the basic tools to create customized language solutions and will promote economic growth as well as preserve the local languages for generations yet unborn.