Academic Counsel for
Lokono- Ajian
Welcome to the Academic Council for Lokono-Ajian
The Academic Council for Lokono-Ajian (ACLA) is a grassroots organization dedicated to the revitalization of the Lokono language and culture. Officially incorporated under the Companies Act of Guyana in September 2024, our journey began in December 2023 with a vision to protect and restore the linguistic heritage of the Lokono people. Founded by Aaron Dundas, Timothy Andrews, and Skeitha Thomas, and later joined by Elder Ivan Cornelius, ACLA is committed to empowering Lokono communities through language education, content creation, and advocacy.
We have established strong partnerships with Lokono villages, including Wakapoa, Moraikobai, Capoey, Mashabo, and Orealla, with additional communities in discussions to join our efforts. Our work focuses on creating a comprehensive 10,000-word Lokono dictionary, developing a structured Lokono teaching curriculum, and producing written and narrated content in the Lokono language to ensure its accessibility for future generations.
As part of our long-term vision, we aim to introduce Lokono language immersion programs in schools within Lokono territory, ensuring that young learners have the opportunity to speak and embrace their ancestral tongue. By raising awareness of the endangered status of our language, we are mobilizing efforts to preserve, document, and expand Lokono linguistic resources before they are lost to time.
Join us in our mission to safeguard the Lokono language and identity. Together, we can create a future where our children speak the language of their ancestors, and our cultural legacy thrives for generations to come.
Community Development
Kokorichi Farms project
Culture & Heritage
Why is the Lokono Language Important?
The Lokono language is a vital part of the Lokono culture and heritage. It carries within it the stories, traditions, and wisdom of generations past. As the number of fluent speakers dwindles, so too does this rich cultural tapestry. Revitalizing the Lokono language isn't just about preserving words; it's about safeguarding a unique identity and worldview.
Our Mission
Our mission is twofold:
- Revitalize the Lokono language for the Lokono people. We provide resources and programs to help Lokono communities learn and speak their ancestral language.
- Promote the Lokono language to a wider audience. We encourage people from all backgrounds to explore the beauty and significance of Lokono.
Our Story
A Seed of Hope
The seeds of our organization were sown by a growing concern for the declining number of fluent Lokono speakers. We recognized the imminent threat of losing not just a language, but a vital part of the Lokono cultural heritage. Stories passed down through generations, traditional knowledge embedded in every word, and a unique way of viewing the world – all on the verge of fading away. This realization fueled our determination to act.
