On 21 February 2025, the United Nations University (UNU), in partnership with the Embassy of Bangladesh in Japan, co-hosted a commemorative event celebrating International Mother Language Day.
International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in November 1999. 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of International Mother Language Day, a milestone highlighting a quarter-century of dedicated efforts to preserve linguistic diversity and promote the use of mother tongues.
To spotlight the important role of language in preserving cultural heritage, the event showcased musical and dance performances from Bangladesh, Japan, Nepal and Sri Lanka.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector of UNU and Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, noted: “Language is not just a mode of communication, but a vessel of our cultural heritage and identity.”
Prof. Marwala also emphasized the important role of language in education: “Preserving mother languages is crucial, not only for cultural diversity but also for ensuring equal access to education and opportunities. Studies consistently show that children learn best in their mother tongue.”
He ended his remarks with a quote from Nelson Mandela: “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.”
