Canadore College fights to save Maleku language from extinction with AI intervention

In North Bay, Ontario, on December 9, 2024, the First Peoples' Centre at Canadore College announced its partnership with the Maleku Indigenous community in Costa Rica to preserve the Maleku Jaika language using artificial intelligence technology. The initiative promises to provide over 650 members of the Maleku community with the resources to learn and teach their language to future generations. Jessenia Vásquez Quesada, a partner from the Maleku College, highlighted the challenges faced by the community in language preservation due to a lack of books, qualified teachers, and funding. This project arrives at a crucial moment for the Maleku people, who are striving to keep their linguistic heritage alive amidst growing concerns of language extinction. The project utilizes Camb.ai's advanced AI-powered speech and translation tools, enabling real-time dubbing into the Maleku language. These tools have a wide range of applications, including their use in the film industry for translation purposes. The collaboration underscores the importance of technology in supporting languages that are at risk of disappearing. Sarah Julian, the Director of Canadore College's First Peoples' Centre, stated the significance of language in reclaiming cultural identities, emphasizing that revitalizing it strengthens resilience and fosters solidarity within and across Indigenous communities. This partnership began nearly two years ago when a group of Canadore students traveled to Costa Rica as part of a preliminary exploration of the local needs. A subsequent university trip occurred in March 2024, facilitated through funding from the Global Skills Opportunity Fund, which is supported by Colleges and Institutes Canada. As echoed by Akshat Prakash, a co-founder of Camb.ai, the work on Indigenous language preservation aligns with their corporate mission while also addressing languages on the brink of extinction. The project is not only a business endeavor for Camb.ai but also a meaningful contribution to preserving cultural heritage. The collaboration aims to deeply respect and empower the Maleku community, with Canadore College committing to a long-term relationship that uplifts their language and culture. College President George Burton confirmed their commitment to supporting the Maleku people and expressed pride in working with them on such a significant initiative. This endeavor reflects Canadore College's broader mission to support Indigenous communities and contribute positively to linguistic and cultural revitalization efforts worldwide.