Edikanèt, a Digital Initiative in Favor of Haitian Creole
Edikanèt is an association dedicated to education in the Haitian Creole language on the Internet. Founded in 2019 at Lycée Toussaint Louverture, the organization works to promote, recognize, and use Haitian Creole in all educational, social, and institutional spaces in the country. It was created by three young activists committed to this cause: Luc Cadet FIGARO, Alan Joe JEAN, and Marcus JUSMA.
From the beginning, Edikanèt set itself key goals: promoting education in Creole across all regions of Haiti; creating educational materials in Creole; fighting against linguistic discrimination toward Creole speakers; and elevating Creole as a language of instruction, culture, and prestige. This initiative was born out of awareness of the persistent marginalization of Haitian Creole in Haitian society.
Their most recent major initiative was a quiz competition held in July 2025, focused on general knowledgesuch as Haitian history, geography, culture, mathematics, Creole grammar, and other subjects related to learning in Creole. The winner, Roobens D. Victor, came out first among 113 participants.
The Importance of the Mother Tongue in Human Development
The mother tongue is an essential tool for human development. Education, one of the most important factors in development, is most effective when taught in the language best mastered by the learner. In Haiti, Creole is spoken by nearly the entire population. Though it is still often discriminated against in favor of Frenchthe language of the former colonizerCreole remains a tool of social cohesion, transcending cultural, social, and economic differences.
Today’s world is increasingly digital, even in less developed societies like Haiti. This trend is emerging gradually, especially thanks to the widespread availability of smartphones. A large portion of the Haitian population now owns a smartphone, granting access to the digital world. Added to this is the growing impact that artificial intelligence promises for the future. Edikanèt fits into this dynamic: it aims to guide Haitian youth in this changing digital environment while promoting the use of their mother tongue.
It is well known that Haïti is currently going through severe security challenges, particularly in certain regions including the metropolitan area around the capital. In response to this situation, some young people are increasingly turning to digital technology as a means of expression, learning, and mobilization. The youth behind Edikanèt demonstrate remarkable creativity and challenge the reductive narratives that portray Haitian youth as solely associated with violence and the country’s multifaceted crisis. This initiative highlights the importance of not reducing Haïti to its conflict zones, but rather shedding light on the vibrant forces and talents emerging within it.
First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.
Natural beauty
Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.
Heritage
Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Culture
Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.
