Adult Education, Language Change, and Issues of Identity and Authenticity in Kwara'ae (Solomon Islands)

Abstract

Less endangered than other languages discussed in this issue, Kwara'ae provides a useful illustration of the early stages of language erosion and the importance of language to cultural survival. We argue that the foundation of a people's identity and cultural authenticity is their culturally shared indigenous epistemology, embodied in and expressed through their heritage language. We examine these points in nonformal adult education workshops aimed at rural villagers.