On February 21, communities and organizations worldwide united to celebrate International Mother Language Day, emphasizing the preservation of linguistics diversity and the cultural heritage inherent to languages. From the halls of educational institutions to the diplomatic offices, events showcased the significance of this day, historically rooted in the movement initiated by Bangladesh.
At the Institute of Linguistics and International Communications, students and faculty came together for a vibrant concert, underscoring the role of their native languages. Held at the "Nash etazh" ("Our Floor") venue, the event featured performances by students from diverse backgrounds, representing nations such as China, Senegal, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Mongolia. This annual celebration, now in its third year, strives to create a sense of belonging for international students through their native languages.
“We have been organizing the Mother Language Day event for three years now, and it has become our tradition,” noted Dina Valeeva, Head of the Sociocultural Adaptation Centre of the International Office. The event aimed not just to entertain but also to engage students from various institutes, creating harmony over shared cultural expressions.
Students performed songs and recited poems in languages ranging from Turkmen to Arabic, capturing the audience's attention and appreciation. A Turkmen student, Gulshat Meredova, expressed her joy stating, "I like SUSU. We have very good teachers, and I’m happy studying here. I’ve really enjoyed this event and I’m surprised at how many talented international students have performed today!" The performances included expressions of languages like Pular and Wolof, with students conveying their aspirations and love for their cultures.
One highlight was freshman Mohamed Balde from Guinea, who for the first time sang “My Love” in Pular, expressing pride and joy about his culture: “I’m from Guinea and speak French. I like presenting our language and our culture.” The positivity during the event transcended the performances, as participants danced and cheered, fostering community spirit within the university.
Meanwhile, the UNESCO Regional Office in Bangkok, alongside the Bangladesh Embassy, celebrated the silver jubilee of International Mother Language Day by reiteratively emphasizing language preservation. This event, which saw participation from numerous dignitaries and officials, underscored the urgency of protecting linguistic diversity amid technological advancements. UNESCO Bangkok’s Regional Director, Soohyun Kim, stressed, “Languages are not just words—they are worlds. When a language disappears, we lose more than vocabulary; we lose a way of connecting generations.”
With nearly 37% of learners across low and middle-income countries not taught in the language they understand best, the challenges of language loss resonate globally. Citing alarming statistics, Kim noted, “At least 40% of the world’s languages are endangered, with one language disappearing every two weeks.” These statements echo the sentiments surrounding the preservation of linguistic diversity which is integral not only to cultural identity but for educational success.
Various ambassadors from countries like the Maldives, Mongolia, and Nepal participated to underline their support for the movement. Ambassador Faiyaz Murshid Kazi of Bangladesh remarked on the commemoration’s emphasis on mainstreaming linguistic diversity within international development efforts. He stated, “Our government remains committed to promoting education and curriculum development in the languages of some of our ethnic groups.”
Adding to the significance, Ambassador Pedro Zwahlen of Switzerland shared how multilingualism is woven deeply within his country's DNA and reflects on their educational strategies focusing on mother tongue-based instruction. “Children learn best when taught first in their mother tongue, adding another language only thereafter,” he pointed out, referring to the advantages showcased by Switzerland’s high educational standards.
UNESCO continues to advocate for mother tongue-based education as not just foundational for effective learning but also as pivotal to maintaining cultural heritage and societal diversity. Kim emphasized, “We create a more equitable world when all voices are heard, and everyone can express themselves in their mother tongue.” This reinforces the call for inclusive systems of education globally, showcasing the significance of International Mother Language Day.
Since its inception by UNESCO in November 1999, International Mother Language Day has gained momentum, fostering awareness of languages and their roles within societies. The celebrations reveal broader themes of tranquility, respect for heritage, and hope for future generations, affirming identities tied to languages across the globe.