What You Need to Know
The Creole Speaking Union, in collaboration with the University of Mauritius, launched ‘Antolozi Poezi an Kreol Morisien’ on International Mother Language Day 2026. This anthology celebrates Mauritian Creole’s rich heritage and aims to promote its literary significance, featuring contributions from various poets and writers. The event highlighted the progress of Mauritian Creole in education and a
Africa-Press – Mauritius. In celebration of International Mother Language Day 2026, commemorated on 21st February annually, the Creole Speaking Union (CSU), in collaboration with the University of Mauritius (UoM) and the Institut Cardinal Jean Margéot, launched, yesterday, in Réduit, the book ‘Antolozi Poezi an Kreol Morisien’ (Anthology of Poems in Mauritian Creole).
The anthology, a curated collection of poems, aims to celebrate and preserve the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of Mauritian Creole. It showcases the depth and vibrancy of the language, uniting voices from diverse backgrounds and time periods. The book marks a significant contribution to the ongoing efforts to promote the mother tongue and its literary heritage.
The launch event was graced by representatives from the Ministry of Education and Human Resource, the Ministry of Arts and Culture, various educational institutions, and a host of writers, poets, and students.
In his keynote address, the Chairman of the CSU, Professor Arnaud Carpooran, highlighted the remarkable progress that Mauritian Creole has made in recent years. He recalled the official recognition, by the Government, of an official spelling system in 2011, the introduction of Creole as an optional subject in primary schools, and its subsequent incorporation into secondary schools in 2018. Prof Carpooran also spoke of the introduction of Mauritian Creole as a subsidiary subject at Higher School Certificate (HSC) level in 2025. As from the academic year 2026, it is offered as a main subject at the HSC level.
The CSU Chairman paid tribute as well to the tireless efforts of individuals and organisations that have contributed to the recognition and advancement of Mauritian Creole since the country’s independence. Professor Carpooran further noted that ‘Antolozi Poezi an Kreol Morisien’ would be an invaluable resource for students pursuing Mauritian Creole at the HSC level, particularly for those studying literature as part of the curriculum.
For her part, the Senior Lecturer from the University of Mauritius’ Faculty of Social Studies and Humanities, Dr Yannick Bosquet, underscored the role of the UoM in promoting and preserving Mauritian Creole. She recounted the efforts of the staff of the University, from the introduction of Creole modules in 2004, to the establishment of a joint degree in French and Mauritian Creole in 2014, and the creation of a full degree programme in Creole Studies in 2025.
Moreover, Dr Bosquet talked of ongoing research that has helped position Mauritian Creole as an academic subject and the forthcoming introduction of the language in the National Assembly. Additionally, Dr Bosquet announced the establishment of a Centre for Applied Creole Studies at the University of Mauritius, a significant step toward furthering research and education in the language. Additionally, she described the anthology as a vital resource, offering great potential for academic and literary exploration.
Mauritian Creole has evolved significantly since the country’s independence, gaining recognition as a vital part of the national identity. The Government’s initiatives, including the introduction of Creole in schools and the establishment of a spelling system, have fostered its growth in academia and literature. The launch of this anthology marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the language.
The Creole Speaking Union has played a crucial role in advocating for the recognition of Mauritian Creole, facilitating its inclusion in educational curricula. The establishment of degree programs and research initiatives at the University of Mauritius further underscores
