NT Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said teaching Indigenous languages to kids is vital to keeping endangered languages alive, as Labor announced a $14m plan to to expand First Nations language education in schools if elected.
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The plan, announced on Tuesday by Senator McCarthy alongside Shadow Education Minister Tanya Plibersek as well as a number of other Labor MPs, would see 60 primary schools across the country able to hire a full time First Nations language teacher.
Schools would be able to apply to participate, but Senator McCarthy said there was a great need for local First Nations languages to be taught in NT schools.
"With more than 100 Aboriginal languages spoken throughout the Northern Territory, it's important we give our children the opportunity to learn languages that are useful for themselves and their community," she said.
"Many Indigenous languages are sadly endangered and only have a handful of speakers left. It's critical we give Territory kids a chance to keep First Nations languages alive and strong."
A number of NT schools already teach First Nations languages, including Yirrkala school in north-east Arnhem Land which has a bilingual education program, teaching in the student's first language as well as English.
However, nationwide, less than one per cent of students are learning an Indigenous language at school.
Senator McCarthy said the policy would benefit both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students.
"Learning First Nations languages will be an enriching and engaging experience for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous kids in the Northern Territory."
"This commitment will help keep First Nations languages alive and Close the Gap in educational attainment."
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