Introduction to International Mother Language Day 

International Mother Language Day 2024 will be celebrated on February 21. The world observes this day every year on the same date. Protecting and preserving languages is vital for the world. 

However, over 40% of the 6,000 worldwide languages are at risk. Furthermore, educational institutions are teaching only a few hundred of these languages. And you know what is more alarming? Only a few languages have digital representations. 

Are you wondering about the reasons behind this situation? It is happening due to globalization. 

Why is it Crucial to Preserve Languages?

Language serves purposes beyond simple communication. It goes much beyond that. Language is valued in our culture. People prefer to communicate in their mother languages. Some even go so far as to say that language alters our perception of reality.

Worldwide, more than 6,500 languages are spoken. It’s a fact that one of them passes away every two weeks, though. Hence, language protection is essential. They are vital for a number of societal tasks. They support identity preservation.

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As Nelson Mandela said, speaking to a man in a language he understands gets to his mind. But talking with him in his own mother language touches his heart. Of all the world’s languages, less than 100 languages are used in the digital age. On the other hand, at least 43% are at risk. 

The languages most commonly used for Internet communication include:

• English
• Chinese
• Mandarin
• Spanish
• Arabic
• Portuguese
• Indonesian
• Malayan
• Japanese
• Russian
• German 

But the people who speak languages other than these also have a right to use their mother language. All individuals own the right to utilize their native tongue. They have a right to preserve their cultural legacies and customs. And this is the main goal of World Mother Language Day.

Purpose of International Mother Language Day 2024

The purpose of this day is to increase global awareness of linguistic diversity. It also helps to promote a diversity of cultures. It provides a forum for the advancement of multilingualism. It also emphasizes how vital language preservation is. World Mother Language Day is a part of a critical program. It is a vital tool for protecting and upholding all of the world’s languages. 

History of International Mother Language Day

Bangladesh took the initiative to propose the celebration of World Mother Language Day. UNESCO initially announced this day on November 17, 1999. Following the initial announcement, the United Nations General Assembly legally recognized it in 2002.

The Current Situation in the World 

The world witnessed a severe compromise in the learning domain in the past few years. It happened because of the school closures due to COVID-19. According to the World Bank et al. and UNESCO (2022), before the epidemic, 57% of students in low- and middle-income countries could not read and understand a short story by the end of elementary school. By 2022, this percentage had increased to 70%. 

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In many countries, more than 90% of students do not receive their education in a language they can comprehend and pronounce (World Bank, 2023). As a result, it leads to poor learning outcomes.

Why Multilingual Education is Important?

International Mother Language Day acts as a global community reminder. It emphasizes the benefits of bilingual education. Additionally, teaching in the student’s native tongue is more effective. It ensures that pupils will comprehend the ideas more thoroughly. It also encourages tolerance for all languages.

It is imperative for students’ education that teachers use local languages in the classroom. It helps to enhance their learning. Also, it encourages critical thinking. It also makes understanding and conversation easier. Engagement is increased by learning in one’s mother language. It aids in fostering students’ self-confidence.

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It also offers a strong foundation for learning other languages. To put it briefly, it imparts life lessons that come in useful during crises. In addition, it improves digital literacy. But multilingualism is not just something that happens in the classroom. It aids in the preservation of cultures and languages. It ensures that each person has access to a top-notch education. 

What is the Theme of International Mother Language Day 2024?

The World Mother Language Day theme 2024 is “Multilingual education is a pillar of learning and intergenerational learning.” Over 250 million kids and teens do not attend school today. At the same time, 763 million adults lack basic literacy skills. Education in one’s mother language can help solve these issues. Also, it will foster learning and improve the literacy rate.

Conclusion

International Mother Language Day 2024 serves as a global reminder. It highlights how important language diversity is. It captures the spirit of universal linguistic preservation. We must make sure that everyone has access to high-quality education on this day. Everybody is able to get instruction in their mother tongue. By putting programs like multilingual education into practice, we can achieve this. Supporting linguistic diversity allows us to preserve the heritage of culture. Also, it aids in encouraging comprehension and learning.

Let us remember that language is an essential component of identity and cultural expression as we celebrate this day. Language serves as more than just a means of communication. If we value and accept the multiplicity of languages spoken around the world, then all voices may be heard and respected in a more inclusive and peaceful community. Let’s continue to promote multilingualism. When we work together, we can fight to preserve and honor the various languages that provide vibrancy and excitement to our world.

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FAQs

What is International Mother Language Day?

• This day serves as a forum to celebrate linguistic and cultural diversity on this day. 
• Additionally, this day promotes awareness of the significance of preserving native languages on a global scale.

When is International Mother Language Day Celebrated?

Every year on February 21st, people mark World Mother Language Day. 

Why Is It Essential to Preserve Languages?

Preserving languages is essential for:

• Maintaining cultural identity
• Facilitating communication
• Fostering understanding among diverse communities

What is the Theme of International Mother Language Day 2024?

The theme for International Mother Language Day 2024 is “Multilingual education is a pillar of learning and intergenerational learning.”