MGM College marked International Mother Language Day on February 21 with a culturally vibrant programme organized on the theme “Multilingualism in the Present Age.” The celebration highlighted the urgent need to preserve mother tongues and to promote respect for linguistic and cultural diversity in an increasingly globalised world.
The programme was chaired by Meribemo Yanthan, who delivered a warm and insightful welcome address.
Emphasizing the deep connection between language, culture, identity, and roots, he reminded the gathering that one’s mother tongue is not merely a means of communication but the soul of a community.
Adding rich cultural flavour to the event, the 6th Semester students presented a soulful Mizo song, which was warmly appreciated by the audience and reflected the beauty of India’s diverse linguistic heritage. The programme was further enriched by an inspiring message from Jemsungba Walling, Assistant Professor, Department of English and IQAC Coordinator.
In his address, he highlighted the global significance of International Mother Language Day and underscored the responsibility of individuals and institutions to safeguard indigenous languages.
He clarified that true multilingualism goes beyond learning multiple languages—it involves respecting, valuing, and embracing the cultures embedded within them. He concluded with a powerful reminder that when a language disappears, a part of humanity is lost forever.
A key attraction of the celebration was the Folk Narrative Competition, where participants vividly narrated folktales from their respective communities, showcasing the richness of indigenous traditions and oral histories. The competition was judged by RK Behera, Principal and Christine Murry, Assistant Professor, Department of English.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ahikali I Jakha, HoD, Department of English, who expressed gratitude to the organisers, participants, judges, and students for their active involvement and support in making the celebration meaningful and successful. The observance of International Mother Language Day at MGM College stood as a strong reminder of the institution’s commitment to cultural preservation, inclusivity, and the celebration of linguistic diversity.
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Sümedem Fellowship
International Mother Language Day was observed on the theme “Youth Voices on Multilingual Education” at Sümedem Fellowship, DABA, Lengrijan, Dimapur on February 21, which was jointly organized by Dimapur Watsù Telungjem and Ao Kaketshir Telungjem, Dimapur.
Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, Aotula Imchen, IPS attended the programme as the Guest of Honour. Addressing the gathering, she encouraged the youth and students to understand the value of one’s mother tongue as a symbol of national and cultural identity. She expressed pride in being able to speak, read and write one’s own mother language and emphasized the need to integrate the usage of mother languages with AI-powered applications to make learning more child- and youth-friendly.
Earlier, the President of Dimapur Watsù Telungjem, Kenyangerla delivered the welcome address and highlighted the significance of International Mother Language Day. The President of Ao Senso Telungjem, Dimapur, Ningsangwaba, also exhorted the gathering on the importance of preserving and promoting mother tongues.
The programme featured Spelling Bee and Ao Hymnal competitions among children and youth from the Dimapur area, showcasing linguistic skills and cultural heritage.
The President of the Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation expressed deep appreciation and congratulated the organisers for successfully conducting the programme.
