Celebrating International Mother Language Day, Ladakh Academy of Art, Culture of Languages, Leh organised a day-long symposium themed, ‘Socio-Cultural significance of Mother Language’ at Lotsava Auditorium, Cultural Academy on February 21.

Based on the declaration by UNESCO in 1999, the day is observed as an International Mother Language day throughout the world since 2020. Director General of UNESCO Audrey Azoulay said, “The aim of this day- is to celebrate the ways of expressing the world in its multiplicity, committing to the preservation of the diversity of the languages as a common heritage, and working for quality education- in mother tongues- for all.”

This year’s UNESCO’s theme for International Mother Language Day is “Multilingual education – a necessity to transform education”.

Tsering Angchuk, Deputy Chairman, LAHDC Leh stressed the important role of upcoming generations in the upliftment of the mother language. He informed that more language teachers will be appointed this year. He also highlighted the steps taken by the government in strengthening Ladakhi culture, tradition, literature, and languages through various initiatives.
He added that language learning should not only be confined to children but even adults take the opportunity and learn it. Further, he said that the Hill council will fully support all the stakeholders in the promotion and preservation of the Bhoti language. 

Dr. Thupstan Norbu, Editor, LAACL Leh briefed about the seminar and highlighted the importance of observing this day. He said for the holistic socio-cultural development of society, the preservation and development of one’s mother language is of utmost importance. Further, he expressed happiness over the policies framed for the usage of mother tongue in school in the New Education Policy by govt.

A total of 9 prominent scholars and young research scholars attended the seminar. They shared their paper presentations and piece of poetry highlighting the significance of the mother language and the importance of preserving and promoting Ladakhi Literature.