INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY
International Mother Language Day was celebrated on the 21st of February. Although this day has not received much popularity, it is still an important day of observation. The Sinhala language, for example, is one of a number of languages spoken by a very small number of people and needs to be preserved. This was among the many factors highlighted when celebrating International Mother Language Day.
FACTS ABOUT INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY
The General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) proclaimed International Mother Language Day in November 1999. It called all its member states “to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world.”
The UN General Assembly
also proclaimed 2008 as the
International Year of Languages to promote unity in diversity and international understanding, through multilingualism and multiculturalism.
In fact, languages and multilingualism can advance inclusion, and the Sustainable Development Goals’ focus on
leaving no one behind. Through years of successful campaigns, the vital role languages play in development, cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue has been acknowledged.
It has also been noted that language helps in strengthening co-operation and attaining quality education for all, in building inclusive knowledge societies and preserving cultural heritage.
UNESCO believes education, based on the first language or mother tongue, must begin from the early years as early childhood care and education is the foundation of learning. In view of the impact and consequences of COVID-19, this year’s observance is a call on policymakers, educators and teachers, parents and families to scale up their commitment to multilingual education, and inclusion in education to advance education recovery.
THE IMPORTANCE OF LINGUISTIC DIVERSITY
Languages have many implications for identity, communication, social integration, education and development, and are of strategic importance for people and the planet.
While globalisation has yielded many benefits for humankind, it has also resulted in many languages being under threat or even disappearing completely. When languages fade, so does the world’s rich cultural diversity. Opportunities, traditions, memory, unique modes of thinking and expression - valuable resources for ensuring a better future, are also lost.