Producing Christian literature in these languages has been a priority since the earliest days of Christian missionary efforts in Chad, as the old linotype machine in TEAM's Printshop bore witness for many decades. Nowadays the linotype machine has been retired and replaced by offset presses, risographs, and digital technology, but the vision for quality literature in Chad's vernacular languages remains unchanged.
Staffed by an expatriate missionary and 4 Chadian employees, TEAM's printshop is located on Koutou Station, one of the original compounds in the south of the country. With an annual production of many pieces of literature and an annual revenue of few dollars, this facility is one of only two in the entire country dedicated to the production of evangelical literature in vernacular languages. This literature includes Scripture portions, literacy materials, discipleship materials, youth literature, AIDS prevention literature, song books, and journals of the national church in many different languages. As with all of TEAM's infrastructure in Chad, it is dedicated to serving not just TEAM but all those who desire to produce good literature for the edification of God's people and the evangelization of the lost.
Staffing this facility with qualified expatriate supervisory staff is a priority for the foreseeable future. In areas of technology many devloping countries, though moving ahead are unable to "catch-up", and in some cases actually falling behind. We have come to the realization that a wholly national staff is not yet a realistic expectation. Because of this, it has become TEAM's policy that in the event there is no full-time expat presence the shop will close its doors and the staff be reassigned or laid off. Presently there is only one expat on the field qualified to maintain and operate the machinery. It is of considerable concern to the field that when this individual takes his furlough or is otherwise obliged to return home, we will, be obliged to close the doors as there is no-one to replace him. For this reason, we consider the advertisement for and recruitment of qualified individuals who would be able to operate the printshop for anything up to a year's time to be a priority.