NINGANAH NO MORE PROGRAM: BRINGING ABORIGINAL LANGUAGES BACK TO LIFE IN JUNEE

Wednesday, June 13 2018

Steph Cooke MP today announced Junee preschool have been selected to deliver the Ninganah No More program, which is designed to increase the level of Aboriginal languages being taught and embed awareness and understanding for children from an early age. 

“The $400,000 program will support young children including those in the Cootamundra electorate to appreciate and understand Aboriginal languages while participating in early learning environments,” Ms Cooke said.

 “The local community will also benefit immensely, with stronger relationships forged between early childhood services and their local Aboriginal communities.

“I’m thrilled Junee Preschool put their hand up for this fantastic opportunity, and I can’t wait to hear our youngsters speaking Wiradjuri with their classmates and teachers.

“By opening the door on children’s curiosity, we are supporting them to learn more about Aboriginal cultures and languages,” she added. 

Agencies and services running the program will soon be teaching 14 languages across NSW including Gumbaynggirr and Gamilaraay, Yuin, Wiradjuri, Paakantji and Bandjalang.

In addition to increasing the literacy and vocabulary skills of Aboriginal children in NSW, Ninganah No More will help young people preserve some of their heritage and traditions and develop as bilingual speakers. 

Junee Preschool were also recently secured a Quality Learning Environments Grant for $12,300.00. 

The grant will go towards installing a new chicken coop and solar panels at the centre.