Exploring translation of University of KwaZulu-Natal ndaba online publications from English into isiZulu.

Abstract

This study delves into the translation of University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) ndaba online publications from English into isiZulu. The primary objective is to identify the translation procedures employed and assess their impact on the translation process. Guided by SouthAfrica’s multilingual language policy and UKZN’s commitment to promoting bilingualism, the study addresses the pressing need to advance indigenous languages, particularly isiZulu, within academic and institutional communication. Vinay and Darbelnet’s (1995) linguistic model, supplemented by additional translation procedures, serves as the theoretical framework for this research. The study adopted a qualitative research design within an interpretive paradigm and conducted textual analysis on eight ndaba online publications published between 2020 and 2023. The analysis revealed a variety of translation procedures used by translators, with transposition emerging as the most frequently employed strategy. This reflects the structural differences between English and isiZulu. While the selected procedures generally facilitated accurate meaning transfer, one instance of mistranslation underscored the necessity for strengthened editorial processes. Overall, this study contributes to the limited body of research on institutional and technical translation in South Africa. It emphasizes the pivotal role of translation in supporting the development of isiZulu in academic settings and advancing UKZN’s bilingual mandate. The study recommends that ndaba online consider employing additional translators and editors, expanding the number of translated publications, and conducting further research, including interviews with translators, to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges inherent intranslating institutional texts.