Learning starts at home, wrapped in the comfort and familiarity of our mother tongue. This language, the very fabric of our identity, is suddenly replaced for millions of children when they enter school, often with disastrous consequences. This forced linguistic shift fuels a cycle of marginalization, confusion, and ultimately, school dropout.
International Mother Language Day, celebrated on February 21st, serves as a stark reminder of the critical role mother tongue education plays in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4: quality education for all. Yet, 40% of children globally lack access to education in their native language, denied the foundation upon which all learning builds.
This year's theme, "Multilingual Education - A Necessity for Transforming Education," shines a light on the intergenerational learning that blossoms when diverse languages are embraced. Imagine families, young and old, learning together, each generation enriching the other with their unique perspectives and knowledge. This collaborative learning fosters not only individual growth but also cultural understanding and social cohesion.
UNESCO champions mother tongue education as a cornerstone of inclusive education, recognizing that children learn best when taught in the language they understand and feel comfortable in. This isn't just about preserving cultural heritage; it's about unlocking potential, fostering engagement, and ensuring no child is left behind.
Intergenerational learning is a powerful force. Grandparents sharing stories, parents guiding their children, siblings teaching each other – this cross-pollination of knowledge and experience enriches everyone involved. It fosters empathy, understanding, and a deeper connection to our communities and heritage.
But this requires action. Governments, educators, and communities must prioritize mother tongue education. Invest in teacher training, develop relevant curricula, and create spaces where every child feels valued and empowered. Research is clear: early years education in the mother tongue lays the groundwork for successful second language acquisition. Denying children this foundation creates a linguistic barrier that can impede cognitive development and academic achievement. For minority populations, the use of their mother tongue can be the difference between educational success and failure.