African language interpreters and trainee interpreters in the Canary Islands: Two educational proposals for the acquisition of specific skills

Abstract

Migration is a fundamental process in human history, reflecting social, cultural and economic changes. In Europe, especially in the south, migration flows have changed. Traditional migrant-sending countries such as Spain, Italy and Greece have become receivers of people from the Maghreb, the Sahel and the Middle East. These migrants are fleeing armed conflict, political instability, social inequalities, the effects of climate change and high rates of population growth. This increase in migration has led to a growing demand for translation and interpretation services, which are essential to overcome language barriers and facilitate the integration of migrants. However, there is a significant gap between the languages taught in universities and those actually required in this context, especially the African languages of lesser diffusion. In response, the Faculty of Translation and Interpreting of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has promoted a specific training initiative for ad hoc interpreters, as well as the Educational Innovation Project ‘From the classroom to the neighbourhood for intercultural coexistence’, which seeks to develop skills in university students and migrant persons to interpret in public services, while promoting social integration.