09/06/2026
The best way to learn a language is not only to study it—it is to live it.
During the visit of our founder, Jackson Weako, to the University of Florida, he had the opportunity to meet Professor James Essegbey of the Department of Linguistics.
Their conversation was especially meaningful because his work focuses on African languages, language documentation, and how students can develop real competence in the languages they study.
One of the most valuable ideas he shared was the importance of immersion.
Students studying African languages are sometimes given opportunities to travel to African countries and spend time in communities where those languages are spoken every day.
By living with people, listening, asking questions, participating in daily life, and using the language consistently over time, students can move beyond memorizing vocabulary and begin developing real fluency.
That lesson is very important for us at the Liberian Language Institute (LLI).
If we want Kpelle, Bassa, Vai, Gio, Mano, Grebo, Lorma, Gola, Kissi, Krahn, Bandi, and other Liberian languages to remain strong, we must create more opportunities for people to learn them from native speakers, use them in real situations, and connect language learning with culture and community.
Language is not learned only from a textbook.
It is learned through conversation.
Through stories. Through families. Through communities. Through everyday life.
This discussion strengthened our thinking as we continue building relationships with the University of Florida and exploring ways to support African-language learning, documentation, research, and cultural exchange.
At LLI, we believe the future of our languages will depend on collaboration between communities, universities, researchers, teachers, native speakers, and young people who are willing to learn.
If you speak a Liberian language, you can become part of the classroom. If you want to learn one, start now.
And if your institution believes in preserving African languages, partner with us.
Let us create more places where our languages are not only studied—but spoken, lived, and passed on.
