KATHMANDU: Chairman of the National Foundation for Development of Indigenous Nationalities (NFDIN), Resham Gurung, has emphasized that safeguarding the mother tongue transcends cultural significance, serving as an educationally impactful and sustainable approach.

During a programme held by the Foundation on the occasion of the International Mother Language Day today, he highlighted that this day symbolizes a steadfast dedication and collective awareness towards the preservation of native languages.

He noted that multilingual education is not merely a pedagogical strategy but also a foundation for equality, inclusivity, and cultural justice. Research indicates that in nations where multilingual education is practiced, there is a notable increase in children’s learning outcomes, self-esteem, and school retention rates.

The National Census of 2017 revealed that Nepal is home to 124 languages, some of which are facing extinction.

The institute is actively engaged in training school teachers who instruct in their mother tongues, developing dictionaries and educational materials, advancing script development, and archiving linguistic resources.

At the event organized by the Foundation, representatives from the Majhi, Sunuwar, Thami, Tamang, Dura, Newar, Hyolmo, Rai, Limbu, Magar, Tharu, Bhote, Chantyal, Sherpa, and Surel communities shared their linguistic experiences.

These representatives advocated for the creation of multilingual laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to tribal communities, as well as the provision of translation services and technological support during the programme.

International Mother Language Day honors the student-led movement in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on February 21, 1952, which called for the Bengali language to be recognized as the national language.

In 1999, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated February 21 as International Mother Language Day. Since 2000, this day has been celebrated globally.