The Amerindian Affairs Ministry is working with the Ministry of Education to explore introducing the Lokono language into primary schools, amid concerns that the Indigenous language is fading in some communities.
Amerindian Affairs Minister Sarah Brown-Shadeek disclosed the initiative during an appearance on the Starting Point podcast, where she identified Lokono as one of the Indigenous languages most in need of revitalisation.
The move is intended to strengthen efforts already being made within families and communities to pass the language on to younger generations.
Brown-Shadeek, who is Lokono, pointed to her own experience growing up in one of the country’s largest Lokono villages without learning the language as an example of how Indigenous languages can gradually disappear when they are not passed down.
While languages such as Warao and Carib remain comparatively active, the minister said the situation differs across Indigenous communities.
She pointed to Region Nine, where languages, traditions and Indigenous ways of life remain deeply rooted, while noting that communities elsewhere have faced greater challenges in preserving aspects of their culture.
According to Brown-Shadeek, increased interaction with the wider society and the influence of social media have also contributed to cultural changes in some communities.
Beyond language preservation, the Amerindian Affairs Ministry is supporting cultural groups across the country in maintaining traditional practices and encouraging greater participation among children and young people.
