International Mother Language Day observed on 21st February // Some Information about International Mother Language Day, theme and History // 2022 22nd February Current Affairs //

International Mother Language Day observed on 21st February:

The International Mother Language Day 2022 was observed on February 21. This day is observed every year for boosting cognition of linguistic and cultural diversity, to respect each other's languages.

Aim of The Day-

• Promote Multi-Lingualism
• It emphasises languages to promote inclusion that is a key force for achieving the SDG goal of leaving no one behind
• Promote and ensure education in the mother tongue at least during early childhood education.

The theme of 2022 International Mother Language Day:

The theme of 2022 International Mother Language Day is “Using technology for multilingual learning: Challenges and opportunities”. Emphasise the role technology can play in achieving multilingual education and ensure learning for all.

It also highlighted how technology ensured quality education reach even during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Why 21st February as International Mother Language Day:

OK, it's a long story. Let's try to cover it in short. 1947 when Pakistan was formed it constitute mainly two types of people Urdu speaking(West Pakistan) and Bengali speaking(East Pakistan). Now in 1948 Govt. of Pakistan declared Urdu as Sole National Language even though Bengalis are in majority. To protest this various rallies and slogans started to form by Bengalis, to counter Pakistan Govt demolish most rallies. After all this on 21st February 1952, the students of Dhaka University with the support of the general public launched a massive rally, police open fire on them, many were killed many injured. Later this language movement grow among the masses of East Pakistan and finally in 1971 East Pakistan emerged as an independent country, Bangladesh.

Later Bangladesh starts the initiative to observe 21st February as International Mother Language Day. At the 1999 UNESCO General Conference, it was approved. Since then, it has been celebrated annually. First-ever International Mother Language Day was observed in 2000. In 2002, it was formally recognised by the United Nations General Assembly.