A special book written and illustrated by primary school students has been launched on Indigenous Literacy Day.
The book 'Nhä Nhunu Nhäŋal?' has been created by Yolŋgu Matha-speaking students from Nhulunbuy Primary School on the Gove Peninsula in North East Arnhem Land.
Teacher Shane Ogg said the publication of the book during the International Year of Indigenous Languages is a great milestone.
'This project has been incredibly important to the community, the families and the kids. I can't think of anything that has made more of an impact in the last four or five years,' Shane said.
The students worked on a story with some elders of their community, and a story is written entirely in Dhaŋu, a Yolgnu Matha language. Copies have been gifted to the students who helped create the book and also to Dhaŋu-speaking communities in Arnhem Land.
'It is vital for young children to have access to stories in their language so they can see their way of life reflected in books. It also ensures that cultural identity and connection to Country remain strong.'
Indigenous Literacy Day is a national celebration of Indigenous culture, stories, language and literacy.
Images courtesy of the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.
