Every 21st of February, the world commemorates International Mother Language Day, a global observance since 2000 that aims to uplift linguistic and cultural diversity while promoting multilingualism. This annual celebration emphasizes the importance of one’s native tongue, not just in personal communication but also in preserving cultural heritage across generations.
The Origin of International Mother Language Day
A concept born out of Bangladesh’s initiative, the idea of celebrating International Mother Language Day was approved during the UNESCO General Conference in 1999. Since then, this special day has been observed globally, uniting various cultures in the recognition and preservation of their individual mother languages. It is a day that validates each language’s intrinsic value and unique contributions to the world’s multifaceted blend of cultures and traditions.
Languages Without Borders: UNESCO’s Global Celebration
On International Mother Language Day 2020, UNESCO launched the theme ‘Languages without borders.’ This campaign aimed at showing how languages could serve as bridges rather than barriers, fostering understanding and unity amidst diversity. It was a momentous event that emphasized the role of language in enhancing international cooperation and breaking down the walls of cultural misunderstandings.
The United Nations’ International Year of Languages
In line with its collective mission to build a more inclusive and culturally diverse world, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 2008 as the International Year of Languages. This initiative further solidified the commitment of international communities towards linguistic diversity, thereby elevating the significance of each country’s mother language in global discourse.
The Language Education Gap
Despite these commendable initiatives, there still exists a notable gap in language education worldwide. An alarming 40% of the global population does not have access to education in a language they can speak or understand. This disparity has long-term implications on individuals’ learning capabilities and overall educational attainment, as comprehension is significantly hindered when instruction is delivered in an unfamiliar language.
Progress in Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education
However, the world is not without progress. There is growing recognition of the importance of mother tongue-based multilingual education, especially in early schooling settings. Significant strides have been made in developing educational frameworks that incorporate native languages into the curriculum, ensuring that learners can effectively understand and engage in their lessons. This progress denotes a crucial shift towards a more inclusive and linguistically diverse educational landscape.
The Vision of the Ministry of Human Resource and Development
Taking part in this global movement, India’s Ministry of Human Resource and Development celebrates International Mother Language Day as Matribhasha Diwas across the country. Working hand-in-hand with various educational and language institutions, the ministry spearheads programs and events that celebrate the rich variety of India’s linguistic heritage. This annual observance is more than a celebration; it is a commitment to preserve, promote, and pass down the linguistic wealth of the nation to upcoming generations.
International Mother Language Day is more than just a celebration of linguistic diversity. It is a firm global commitment to fostering understanding and unity within and among countries, highlighting the significant role of language in cultural preservation, global cooperation, and inclusive education. Its observance underscores every person’s right to communicate, learn, and express oneself in one’s mother language, making the world a more inclusive place.
