Stanger graphic artists help kids learn isiZulu

Stanger couple Raksha Chabalalsing and Leon Govender are using their passion for art as a means to help children learn isiZulu through a fun and colourful book.

Published this August, the idea to create My First IsiZulu Picture Dictionary came after the couple found that their 10-year-old, like many other pupils, was struggling to grasp the isiZulu language at school.

“My husband and I are both graphic artists and we used our passion for illustration to create a book that will help children and adults learn isiZulu which is an important part of our lives. Our children need to become accustomed to African languages in order to bridge the cultural gaps and better understand each other.”

Also read: Painting Ballito pink for CANSA

The 88-page book covers 24 themes and has more than 700 words and sentences and was edited by one of the heads of the education department.

Chabalalsing said research for the book was carried out at various schools and by speaking to teachers and parents. The project took five months to complete and in just two months, more than 300 copies of the book had been sold.

“I did all the research for the words and it was quite complicated because even a single letter could change the meaning of the word.

“We are proud of the outcome and by using the picture word association it makes it easier for people to learn the language faster.”

Since the release, the couple was pleased to find that adults had also taken to using the book to improve their communication.

“Adults and kids really enjoy the book and some teachers are using it in conjunction with their curriculum.”

My First IsiZulu Picture Dictionary sells for R150. For more information or to buy a copy, contact Chabalalsing via the My First IsiZulu Picture Dictionary Facebook page.

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer.
Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram