A 20-year journey to document the language, stories and traditional knowledge of North Pentecost has reached a major milestone with the official launch of the first-ever Raga dictionary and traditional calendar in Port Vila this week.

Retired linguist, Dr. Hannah Vari-Bogiri, spent two decades researching and putting together the book, which brings together the Raga language, traditional knowledge and stories of the people of North Pentecost.

The publication was officially launched by Minister of Climate Change, Hon. Ralph Regenvanu, in the presence of families from Pentecost who gathered to celebrate the achievement for their identity and cultural heritage.

For Dr. Vari-Bogiri, the launch marks more than the completion of two decades of work.

She said the book was built on the knowledge and contributions of many people mostly from North Penticost, including some who have since passed away.

“Today we stand on the shoulders of giants. This work would not have been possible without those who have passed away. This is their work, and I am just an instrument putting it together and presenting it in a meaningful way for others to benefit from.”

The publication is divided into four parts and includes translations from Raga to English and Bislama, English to Raga and Bislama to Raga and also documents traditional knowledge in areas including plants, fish, the human body and illnesses, as well as a traditional calendar and local stories.

A Resource for Future Generations

Dr. Vari-Bogiri said she took time to include a wide range of information so the dictionary could be used by different groups, including local communities, students, and researchers.

“The dictionary can appeal to a wider audience, including local people, historical linguists and students studying language and culture at universities. That is why I took the time to make sure it includes as wide a range of information as possible.”

She said the book could also become an important resource for schools and help younger generations learn more about their language and cultural heritage.

Minister Regenvanu said work such as the Raga dictionary and traditional calendar was in line with the Constitution and the responsibility of ni-Vanuatu to protect and pass on Melanesian values.

“We have a duty as ni-Vanuatu under the Constitution to protect and teach our children and ensure that our traditional Melanesian values are documented and continue to inform our country as the foundation of this nation.”

For the Raga families who attended the launch, the publication was also a proud moment and an opportunity to celebrate the importance of their own language.

The book is more than a dictionary or a publication documenting traditional knowledge. It represents years of work to preserve the language, identity, and heritage of the people of North Pentecost and pass that knowledge on to future generations.