South Africa, Aug. 24 -- Learning even a little of another South African language can start to close that gap. A greeting, a simple introduction or knowing how to ask someone how they are can turn an ordinary encounter into something warmer - and give you a glimpse into another language and culture along the way.

For South Africans who do not speak isiXhosa, learning the language is also a chance to become more familiar with the sounds, expressions and ways of communicating that form part of everyday life around us. And, of course, there is the fun - and occasional awkwardness - of getting your tongue around unfamiliar words and being brave enough to use them.

The Stellenbosch University Language Centre's 123 online short course is desi...