Selkeytyisi

Selkeytyisi is a language isolate spoken in Papua New Guinea. It is a small language with a limited number of speakers, primarily found in the southern part of the island of New Guinea.

Traditionally, Selkeytyisi is a sign language, made to communicate between villagers. Many Selkeytyisi speakers also know other languages, such as Tok Pisin or Motu, which are widely spoken in Papua New Guinea. The language is considered an important part of the region's cultural heritage, although its usage has been declining in recent years due to the increasing influence of other languages.

Selkeytyisi uses a unique system of hand gestures and body language to convey meaning, with over a hundred signs recognized within the language. While much of the language remains unresearched, linguistic studies have shown that it displays a distinct grammatical structure, with features such as spatial indexing and non-manual markers.

The language is also notable for its practice of mimetic signs, where speakers form shapes and poses to represent objects or people in the environment. This pictorial quality of the language has sometimes been seen as simple or childish, but linguistic research shows a sophisticated system of communication and a strong sense of community among its speakers.

As the use of Selkeytyisi continues to decline, there are ongoing efforts to document and preserve the language, including language documentation projects and community engagement initiatives. These efforts aim to highlight the significance of Selkeytyisi as a vital component of Papua New Guinea's linguistic diversity and cultural identity.