Indigenous languages job hope
A new plan to boost the teaching of Aboriginal languages could create new jobs in the far west.
NSW Aboriginal Affairs Minister Victor Dominello has announced a new strategy that would include "language nests" where native languages would be fostered to improve education outcomes.
Paakantji (also known as Barkindji) is one of the five languages that will be focused on.
Menindee Central School assistant teacher Kayleen Kerwin says it will give new opportunities for young people in the town.
"Yes I am really thrilled with all that because we've written letters to (Education Minister) Adrian Piccoli and all that and to (Victor) Dominello in regards to reviving our Paakantji language out here in the Paakantji region from Bourke right down to Wentworth," Ms Kerwin said.
"It would create more employment for the Indigenous people out here especially Paakantji mob, up and down the river. It would you know really create more employment for us."
Mr Dominello says research shows that children who speak their native language are less likely to grow up taking drugs, drinking to excess or being involved in violence.
"If they have a greater sense of language, a greater sense of identity, there's a greater chance they'll stay at school, a greater chance that their parents will be involved in the educational process and the multipliers that pile up when you get an education are there for all to see," he said.
Ms Kerwin says giving students access to their language will give them a sense of pride and identify and connect them to country.
"You cannot teach Paakantji to students and they will not pick up language overnight, because of the 150 years without language," she said.
"And me not being a fluent Paakantji speaker, I really need to get a certificate and to get that accreditation so that I can become a language teacher."