The Voice of Nigeria (VON) has sought partnership with the Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding for promotion of languages.
The Director-General of VON, Jibrin Ndace stated this when a delegation from the Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding visited VON. The centre was in Nigeria to publicise the 10th Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding.
Ndace noted that language was created for understanding and better communication, stating that any organisation focusing on language survival should be commended. He applauded the group for promoting the translation of literary works in Yoruba language into Arabic language in this year’s award. “Yoruba is one of the major languages in Nigeria and you have done well by picking Yoruba a major language but you should also consider Igbo too, which is one of the major languages in Nigeria.” He added that it is a good step that the body understands the importance of language to peace building.
He also said that the right place and the organization to partner with is the VON because it broadcast in 8 languages. He stated that the VON under him is focused on building relationships, especially as it wants to be intentional about telling Nigeria’s our stories to the world without distortion. “See the VON as your own in helping to propagate your ideals. And as a platform, VON is committed to giving out truthful and credible information.”
Ndace, however, requested the foundation to look beyond the award but collaborate with VON for training and empowerment, among other partnership that would deepen relationships aimed at meeting the goals of the centre.
The head of the delegation and media advisor for the Award, Dr. Hanan Al Fayyad, said that this year’s categories include translations of single books from Arabic into French, French into Arabic, Arabic into English, and English into Arabic under the first category as well as translations between Arabic and four other languages – Balochi, Tatar, Hungarian and Yoruba.
