Dr. Beatrice Taringa

Executive Director

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Midlands State University National Language Institute: Strategic Vision 2026–2030

As we embark on the 2026–2030 strategic period, the Midlands State University National Language Institute is committed to promoting and preserving our rich national language heritage while advancing innovative language research and education. Our mission is to empower communities by enhancing language accessibility, fostering cultural pride, and driving economic growth through language-related products and services.

Over the next five years, we will expand our outreach, develop cutting-edge digital tools, and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that the Zimbabwean Officially Recognised Languages (ZORLs) flourish in education, media, and commerce. By showcasing unique cultural narratives and producing high-quality language products, we aim to boost national identity and support sustainable development. Through Heritage Based Education 5.0 Philosophy, we monetise the indigenous language resources.

Together, we will celebrate our linguistic diversity and unlock new opportunities for our people, ensuring that the ZORLs remain a vibrant and dynamic force for generations to come.

MOTTO 

Language for national development.

MANDATE

Empowerment of languages to ensure that no one is left behind in socio-economic and scientific advancement of the nation.

  VISION

To be a leading, one-stop, innovative, inclusive and technologically driven world class language research, consultancy and techno-scientific services centre dedicated to the development, modernisation and internationalisation of Zimbabwe for the empowerment of society and wealth creation.

MISSION

Pursuant to its vision, MSUNLI is committed to conducting language research and offering techno- scientific services to its diverse stakeholders, locally, regionally and internationally.                                           

CORE VALUES

  • Hard work
  • Teamwork
  • Professionalism
  • Inclusivity
  • Ubuntu/Hunhu

STAFFING

Highly qualified native speakers of the different indigenous languages work at the Institute as language researchers. The language researchers cover a wide range of roles and responsibilities. These include functions and roles such as those of researchers, advisors, teaching assistants, technicians, counsellors, software developers and events managers among other duties. 

Zimbabwean Officially Recognised Languages on Offer

  • Chewa 
  • ChiBarwe
  • English
  • Kalanga
  • Koisan
  • Nambya
  • Ndau
  • Ndebele
  • Shangani
  • Shona
  • Sign Language
  • Sotho
  • Tonga
  • Tswana
  • Venda
  • Xhosa

KEY ACTIVITIES

Language Consultancy Services

  • Document proof reading and editing. 
  • Translation services. 
  • Interpreting services.
  • Transcription services.
  • Speech writing and report writing training services.
  • Braille services for schools, colleges and universities.
  • Sign language services for the nation.

Research and Publications

  • DPhil and MPhil Dissertation Supervision.
  • Hosting international language research conferences.
  • Language research.
  • Book reviews
  • Typesetting. 

Promotion and Development of Indigenous Languages

  • Promoting the growth of indigenous literature by organising creative writing competitions for marginalized languages and support book publications in indigenous languages.
  • Developing orthographies for the previously marginalised indigenous languages of Zimbabwe.
  • Lexicography research in all officially recognised indigenous languages.
  • Intensive research in language, culture and literature.

Language Policy and Planning

  • Promoting and supporting the establishment of a National Language Board for Zimbabwe.
  • Promoting and supporting the establishment of Indigenous Languages Associations.
  • Spearheading the development of a national language policy and a language in education policy for Zimbabwe.

CONTACT US

Telephone:   +263 54 231583

Fax:               +263 54 260233/260311

Email:            info@languageinstitute.msu.ac.zw

Mobile:          +263 77 288 3047 / +263 71 680 0586

Staff Profiles