By Jadesola Ajibola
Every 21st February is International Mother Language Day, a day that promotes the preservation and protection of all languages. This day was chosen to commemorate those who were killed during the 1952 Bengali Language Movement.
The movement was against the government’s decision for Urdu to be the sole official language.
The day was declared to be International Mother Language Day by UNESCO on 17th November,1999. It has since been observed throughout the world since 21 February 2000.
The mother tongue helps us stay connected to our traditional, cultural values and our roots. When a person knows his or her mother language well, it is easier for them to learn a new language.
The 2024 International Mother Language Day was held in Oyo State Branch premises of the National Library of Nigeria, Oyo State Branch, Iyaganku GRA, Ibadan on 21st February 2024 to let the participants know the value of “International Mother Language”.
The Theme for 2024 international mother language day is “Multilingual education is a pillar of intergenerational learning”.
The National Librarian/CEO, Prof. Chinwe V. Anunobi through the Head Of Branch, Mrs. O. Odubayo, CLN, speaking in her mother tongue, implored students and other participants to cultivate the culture of speaking in indigenous language.
She explained the advantages of speaking in our mother tongue as it would improve learning as well as make us have a better understanding of our culture, which is presently being eroded in our society.
The Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Ayotunde Opakunbi, former President, Association of Nigerian Authors encouraged students to take special interest in their mother tongue.
He opined that most stories in books written in our indigenous languages, particularly folklore, instilled important lessons and values.
The Permanent Secretary, Oyo State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, represented by the Director, Curriculum Development, Mr. I. A. Adeoti stated that there is nothing that is as good as using our indigenous language for teaching and learning after which he declared the occasion opened.
Over fifty participants including the primary schools and secondary schools invited were in attendance during the celebration at Oyo State Branch premises.
Other dignitaries who graced the occasion were Mrs Grace George, Mr Sunday Alabi and Miss Cordeama.
Activities of the Day includes: recitation of National anthem/ State anthem in indigenous language, Pep talk by Mr Adekoya A. Osunkoya, (Chief Librarian) and Mrs. Roselyn Bankole of Rochas Foundation College, Oke-Ado, Ibadan.
Other activities include; recitation of alphabets and numerals in indigenous language, the cry of a wife (ekun iyawo) and Cultural dance.
Gifts were also presented to participating schools, the best students and other participants.
