University of Limerick launches MSc Programme in Multilingual Computing and Localisation to Promote African Languages

During November 2012, the University of Limerick announced that its MSc in Multilingual Computing and Localisation provided by the Localisation Research Centre will promote African Languages in the Information Society through a distance Learning course, co-hosted by UNECA, through its Information Training Centre for Africa (ITCA) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Given that Africa is the world's second-largest continent and has over 3000 spoken languages, this is an important development to assist in including indigenous languages as digital information.

This announcement coincided with the launch of AGIS Africa as a five year Programme hosted by UNECA and co-hosted by the Localisation Research Centre in University of Limerick (Ireland) to develop localisation capacities in languages and content not adequately covered in the African context, to raise awareness of the benefits of localisation for business and society and to raise funds to implement the program.

Initially five African students (one from North, South, West, East and Central Africa) will be selected to join the Master of Science in Multilingual Computing and Localisation programme of the University of Limerick for the 2013-3014 academic year. This is also supported by GALA whose members will provide mentoring and training during the programme and the Rosetta Foundation.