AI technology can 'lighten load on Manx speakers,' student says

February 7, 2026 - 21:02

A university student is pioneering an artificial intelligence project aimed at preserving and promoting the Manx Gaelic language. Chris Bartley, a student at the University of Edinburgh, is developing a specialized machine-learning model designed to transcribe audio of the historically rich Celtic language.

The initiative addresses a significant practical challenge in language revitalization: the time-intensive process of manually transcribing spoken Manx. By automating this task, the AI tool promises to significantly lighten the workload for linguists, educators, and native speakers. This efficiency could accelerate the creation of accessible learning materials, archived oral histories, and other digital resources crucial for the language's future.

Bartley's work highlights the growing role of cutting-edge technology in cultural preservation. Manx Gaelic, once considered extinct, has seen a remarkable revival thanks to decades of community effort. This AI model represents a new phase in that journey, offering a technological assist to human experts. The project underscores how modern computational tools can be harnessed to protect intangible heritage, ensuring that the unique sounds and stories of Manx continue to be heard and studied by future generations.