Wole Adedoyin, the acting President of the International Writers Association, has issued a fervent call to parents and schools worldwide, urging them to prioritise the use and preservation of mother languages within the familial and educational spheres.
Adedoyin’s plea comes on the occasion of the International Mother Language Day, celebrated annually on February 21st, and is underscored by the imperative need to safeguard linguistic diversity.
In a press statement released today from Ilesa, sighted by PERISCOPE NIGERIA Adedoyin emphasised the pivotal role of parents and educators in nurturing linguistic heritage by actively engaging children in the consistent practice of their mother tongue. He stressed that sustained exposure to one’s native language fosters a deeper connection to cultural roots and bolsters cognitive development from an early age.
The International Mother Language Day, as sanctioned by the general conference of UNESCO, serves as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to preserve and protect the rich tapestry of languages spoken across the globe. This year’s theme, “Multilingual education is a pillar of intergenerational learning,” resonates deeply with the mission of the IWA to promote linguistic inclusivity and intercultural understanding.
Adedoyin’s impassioned appeal echoes the sentiment echoed by UNESCO, advocating for multilingual education as a fundamental tenet of fostering harmonious coexistence and bridging intergenerational divides. By embracing linguistic diversity within educational frameworks, societies can cultivate environments that celebrate individual identities while nurturing a shared sense of global citizenship.
According to the statement, “The IWA stands steadfast in its commitment to advancing the cause of linguistic empowerment, recognizing that language serves as both a vehicle for communication and a repository of cultural heritage. As custodians of literary expression, writers play a pivotal role in amplifying diverse voices and advocating for linguistic rights, thereby contributing to the enrichment of the global cultural tapestry.”
In the spirit of International Mother Language Day, the IWA called upon governments, policymakers, and stakeholders at all levels to prioritize the implementation of policies that promote multilingual education and safeguard linguistic diversity. “Together, let us embrace the richness of our linguistic heritage and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future for generations to come.”
Our correspondent reports that the International Writers Association is a global organisation dedicated to promoting literary excellence, cultural diversity, and linguistic empowerment. With a network of writers spanning across continents, the IWA serves as a platform for amplifying diverse voices and advocating for the universal right to freedom of expression. Through its initiatives and programs, the IWA seeks to foster cross-cultural dialogue, nurture emerging talent, and champion the transformative power of words.
