Established in 1974, The Institute for Sierra Leonean Languages (TISLL) encourages and promotes the teaching of indigenous languages in religious institutions, schools and communities.

TISLL has been instrumental in the development of an extensive range of materials, including literacy primers, Scripture stories and history and health books. Literacy rates in Sierra Leone increased due to the classes offered by TISLL. Many of these newly literate people became volunteer literacy teachers, translators, or contribute in the development of supplementary reading materials.

An increasing number of people desire to gain literacy skills in order to be able to read Scripture in their own languages. It is a challenge for TISLL to provide technical and professional services in support of the many churches and multiple language programs serving these communities. Adequate funding will allow TISLL to offer practical support to language committee personnel seeking to increase the reach and impact of their literacy programs. Comprehension of God’s Word is enhanced, leading to deeper faith, as people gain the skill to read Scripture in their own languages.