Abstract

This paper seeks to contribute to the beginnings of an African perspective on translator education, i.e. indicating the type of research necessary to be able to offer a qualification such as an M.A. in Translation for Africa. In this case, I am particularly interested in relating translation to studies in oralate culture, oralate anthropology, etc. I am exploring the possibility that the African context affords the translator educator the possibilities of research in communities at the interface of oralate and literature cultures, and the challenge to educate students in order to be responsive to this particular context. Based on the linguistic anthropology of Marcel Jousse, I suggest ways in which to conceptualise the divide between the oralate and the literate and to utilise notions of oralateness with regards to translator education. I relate this to efforts to offer a Spring School for Translation Research in Africa. My view would thus be focused on Africa and not specifically on an international organisation such as the EU, but rather on international organisations working in Africa, although I would relate the talk to ACALAN and the AU. In this way, I hope to touch on issues of both research and practice.

Biography

Kobus Marais is Senior Lecturer Language Practice in the Department of Afroasiatic Studies, Sign Language and Language Practice at the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein, South Africa. His main research interest is translator education, on which he has published a number of articles. He is working towards an African agenda for Translation Studies and Translator Education that is responsive to the African context, amongst others by planning a Spring School for Translation Studies in Africa for 2009.