The Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB), in collaboration with the Tshivenda National Lexicography Unit (TNLU), and the University of Venda, will on Thursday, 16 October 2025, commemorate International Dictionary Day at the University of Venda, Thohoyandou in Limpopo. This year’s commemoration will be observed under the theme “Intelligent Lexicography: Inclusive Dictionary Making in the Age of AI”
International Dictionary Day is observed worldwide to honour the birth anniversary of Noah Webster, a renowned lexicographer known as the father of the American dictionary. This day is commemorated to highlight and appreciate the crucial work of lexicographers in language development and to raise awareness about the significance of using dictionaries to enhance vocabulary and literacy levels.
PanSALB is a constitutional body responsible for promoting the development of all official languages in the country, including Khoi and San languages. PanSALB carries out its functions through its three advisory structures, one of which is the National Lexicography Units (NLU’s), consisting of eleven units representing different languages across the country. As part of this significant celebration, four Tshivenda-English Bilingual and three monolingual dictionaries will also be launched to recognise the role of lexicographers in contributing to the development of all languages. On 15 October 2025 a roadshow will be held at Thavhani Mall, where all units will be stationed to showcase their products and services to the community. The purpose of this event is to create public awareness about dictionary development initiatives and to promote the use and importance of dictionary products in advancing language, education, and cultural preservation.
“The NLU play a crucial role in fulfilling a constitutional mandate by compiling dictionaries and other lexicographical products to enrich the vocabulary of diffent languages and address societal challenges such as illiteracy”. stated the Chairperson of the PanSALB Board, Prof Lolie Makhubu-Badenhorst.
“Preserving and promoting languages is essential for safeguarding our nation’s diverse linguistic heritage. Providing access to dictionaries through digital platforms is a strategic necessity that all stakeholders should pursue. It is vital to ensure that these dictionaries are utilized as educational tools and cultural repositories which have to be preserved for future generations. That requires establishing strategic partnerships with the Department of Basic Education, the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture and other key stakeholders to ensure that dictionaries are utilized as national resources”. Added the Chairperson.
