- Written by Grace Tang
In the digital age, when we face a language barrier, there are a host of internet resources to overcome it. We often rely on translation platforms, dictionary apps, Wikipedia in other languages, or the simple “click to translate” option on many websites.
This holds true even when facing an emergency, say a flood or wildfire in a French- or Spanish-speaking part of the world. In such areas, you can rely on machine translation to get information in English about the areas affected or how to stay safe. You would be able to find the information you need, when you need it.
But if you were a Kanuri speaker in northeast Nigeria or a Rohingya speaker in Bangladesh, you almost don’t have that option. In 2019 more people than ever in low- and middle-income countries own a mobile phone and have access to the internet. Yet life-saving information is often not available in a language they understand.
Language technology offers solutions. Tools such as machine translation, natural language processing, and speech recognition technology can bridge the digital divide, while also presenting opportunities for better and more accountable aid to those who need it most.
Click here to read more. (redirects to ICT Works Website)