Bible translators traveled to Honiara last week to participate in a workshop to learn how to use Paratext, a special software tool used in Bible translation around the world.
The one week training was held at the Solomon Islands Translation Advisory Group (SITAG) Training Center 10-14 January and with SITAG Director, Paul Nelson, as the trainer, a statement issued by SITAG said.
Eleven Bible translators from Bilua, Bughotu, Gela, Gao, Kwaio, and Fataleka, attended the workshop and learned how to use and gain experience in using Paratext. This special software helps translators organise data as they translate Scriptures. In addition, it provides translators easy access to resource tools to help them in translation such as Bible translations, dictionaries, pictures, and maps. And lastly, it helps translators to test and check the data as they prepare it for publication.
While the main focus of the training was for translators to learn to use the software, for some of the translators, it was the first time they had used a computer. The workshop provided an opportunity for them to learn to use a computer.
The translators were pleased with the training and stated that the practice and new knowledge they gained in using the software is a real boost for their work as translators. Pastor Mathias Tome of Fatakela Bible Translation Ministry and Pastor John Banian of Bilua Translation Ministry expressed the same sentiments. They are both new to the ministry of Bible Translation and therefore the training has provided them with some knowledge and skills that will truly help them in their work as Bible Translators.
Isaiah Kodo of Gao Translation Team also commented that the Paratext training has helped him to identify mistakes and how to use simple and clear language in the challenging work of Bible Translation. And for these, Isaiah expressed his gratitude for attending this training. Noel Piku of Gela Translation Team and Joseph Supa of Bughotu Translation Team expressed their joy as well in this training.
Paul Nelson believes that the tools are going to benefit Bible Translation in the Solomon Islands as Solomon Islanders do better translation because they have the tools and are equipped to use them well.
