This article discusses the importance of International Mother Language Day, observed on 21 February every year, in promoting linguistic and cultural diversity. It also highlights the theme for 2024, "Multilingual education – a pillar of learning and intergenerational learning," and the objective of preserving cultural heritage and promoting peaceful coexistence and sustainable development through multilingualism. The article also emphasizes the role of human involvement and oversight in generating trustworthy journalism.
International Mother Language Day is celebrated annually on February 21st to recognize the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity. The day aims to promote and preserve endangered languages and to raise awareness about the importance of mother tongue education.
In 1999, UNESCO declared February 21st as International Mother Language Day to commemorate the tragic events of February 21, 1952, when students in Dhaka, Bangladesh, were killed while protesting for the recognition of their mother tongue, Bangla, as an official language of Pakistan.
The theme for 2024, "Multilingual education – a pillar of learning and intergenerational learning," highlights the crucial role of multilingual education in fostering inclusion, understanding, and global citizenship. Education in the mother tongue has been proven to enhance cognitive development, improve academic performance, and promote self-esteem.
Multilingualism is a valuable asset that contributes to cultural heritage, peaceful coexistence, and sustainable development. By preserving and promoting linguistic diversity, we can foster a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to express themselves freely and fully participate in all aspects of life.
FAQs:
A. To promote linguistic diversity and preserve endangered languages.
A. February 21st
A. "Multilingual education – a pillar of learning and intergenerational learning"
A. Enhanced cognitive development, improved academic performance, and increased self-esteem.
A. By supporting mother tongue education, encouraging language learning, and valuing linguistic diversity.
Further Information:
UNESCO: https://en.unesco.org/commemorations/motherlanguageday
United Nations: https://www.un.org/en/observances/mother-language-day
Endangered Languages Project: https://www.endangeredlanguages.com/
Ethnologue: Languages of the World: https://www.ethnologue.com/
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