At ATHENA – Advanced Technology Higher Education Network Alliance, we celebrate the richness of linguistic diversity and the importance of inclusion on International Mother Language Day.
Originating from the Bangladesh initiative and endorsed by UNESCO in 1999, this day has been observed globally since 2000. It serves as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role languages play in shaping our identities and preserving cultural heritage.
In our increasingly interconnected world, multilingual and multicultural societies thrive through the transmission of traditional knowledge and cultures via languages. However, this diversity is under threat, with many languages facing extinction.
According to UNESCO, 40% of the world’s population lacks access to education in their native language, highlighting the urgent need for multilingual education. The theme for 2024, “Multilingual education is a pillar of intergenerational learning,” underscores the importance of preserving mother tongues in fostering literacy and facilitating the acquisition of additional languages.
At ATHENA, we recognize that proficiency in one’s mother tongue lays the foundation for successful language acquisition and promotes intercultural understanding. As we commemorate International Mother Language Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to linguistic diversity and inclusion, enriching our cultural consciousness for generations to come.
