Teaching translation at Further Education and Training Colleges: Maluti FET as a case study

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Date
2013-10
Authors
Hlohlolo, Sephiri David
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University of the Free State
Abstract
A recent study (Erasmus 2010: 109) found there is a need for the training of both community interpreters and translators in South Africa and that this training was likely to elevate those community interpreters and translators from povertj and unemployment. It was further stated that the proposed curriculum could help in closing or fulfilling a gap in the labour market for translators, thus making it possible for graduates in this programme to make a living out of either translation or interpretation. Therefore, it has become necessary to explore the possibility of introducing such programmes and qualifications at FET Colleges to assist in job creation and poverty alleviation. For the purposes of this study I chose MaJuti FET College, Phuthaditjhaba in Qwaqwa in the Eastern Free State. The methodology followed in this study was qualitative in nature, focusing on one specific case study. The data collection process included questionnaires and interviews. Questionnaires were given to 50 students, while face-to-face interviews were conducted with the Campus Manager, Head of Department for Languages, and three lecturers. According to the responses there was interest, but that alone cannot guarantee an introduction of such a qualification in translation at Maluti FET College. The responses only provided a guideline and could be used as supporting statements for a possible introduction of a qualification. They could also be used to determine the possibility of students interested in enrolling for a course, if introduced. Some responses from both the interviews and questionnaires indicated that such a qualification could create some job opportunities for students on completion. Recommendations include that the Maluti FET College management should engage with College Council about the possible introduction of translation as qualification; that a partnership be developed between Maluti FET College and the University of the Free State with possible assistance in introducing translation; that the suggested curriculum as per SAQA prescriptions be implemented as is, in order to yield accreditation and certification to students who complete the qualification; and furthermore that various government departments such as the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, and Department of Justice be approached for funding such programmes through bursaries.
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Dissertation (M.A. (Linguistics))--University of the Free State (Qwaqwa Campus), 2013, Translation and interpretation -- Study and teaching, Translations studies, Training of translators
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