An exciting new strategy to promote Manx language at home and on the international stage is to be launched on Wednesday 6 December at Arbory Primary School.
Driven by the ethos ‘Manx language for all’, the Manx Language Strategy Strateysh son y Ghaelg, will see a concerted effort to broaden the appeal, understanding and use of Manx over the next five years.
Coordinated by the Department of Education, Sport and Culture and Culture Vannin, this will be the first initiative of its kind to protect the Island’s native language, and will culminate in a celebratory Year of the Language in 2021.
The strategy has been devised by Jeebin, the Manx Language Network, a body of specialist educators and speakers set up in 2015. The venture brings together the work of government, voluntary organisations and the Manx speaking community, including Manx primary Bunscoill Gaelgagh and its pre-school and nursery partner Mooinjer Veggey.
The Manx Language Strategy will take shape under four distinct themes, each with a unique commitment to engage and retain interest in the Manx language, with tangible results targeted.
In the pipeline are plans for a ‘hang-out area and lending library’ at Culture Vannin’s cultural centre in St John’s, new community networks for parents and families, an online hub to bring together all Manx resources, a school playground pack and a buddy system linking fluent speakers and learners.
Minister for Education, Sport and Culture Graham Cregeen MHK said:
‘The Manx language is indigenous to the Isle of Man and its very structure holds the story of our Island. Although it is small in terms of numbers of speakers, its impact on worldwide efforts to protect and promote the language is huge. The Isle of Man is now looked on by many as an example of best practice.’
He added:
‘It is a unique identifier for the business community and for the Isle of Man as a whole; it is an Island success story and something in which we all can take great pride.’
The Manx Language Strategy supports several guiding principles of the Programme for Government:
- Promoting lifelong learning that meets our social and economic needs
- Maintaining our strong identity and international reputation
Find out more about the Manx Language Strategy 2017-2021
