App to Save Aboriginal Language

A smartphone game created by a small Aboriginal community in Western Australia has won major international awards and is playing a key role in reviving the almost-lost Nyiyaparli language. The game, developed by local traditional owners, allows young people to explore their country digitally while learning words, phrases, and cultural knowledge in Nyiyaparli—at a time when only eight people still speak the language fluently out of about 400 community members. The app was honoured with five awards at the global Anthem Awards for social impact, placing it alongside far larger organisations. Elders say the project isn’t just about language—it’s about identity, culture and healing after generations of language loss.

Image via ABC

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