Students of a Durham University college hosted an event to celebrate the linguistic diversity and "its critical role in cultural diversity."
Ustinov College hosted an observance of Mother Languages Day. The event featured a series of talks, performances, and discussions that highlighted the college's commitment to fostering a multicultural academic and social environment.
International Mother Language Day is celebrated globally on February 21 to honour the Language Movement of 1952 in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), which led to demands for the recognition of Bangla.
The day's role is to champion the preservation of linguistic diversity and the promotion of multilingual education worldwide.
Leading the day's events, Ahmed Shafquat Hassan, a scholar from the Global Citizenship programme, provided a comprehensive overview of the historical significance of International Mother Language Day.
His presentation connected the dots between the Language Movement's legacy and the broader global struggle for cultural preservation.
Mr. Mark Critchley, Director of the Foreign Language Centre at Durham University, followed Shafquat’s talk with one of his own, where he emphasised the indispensability of multilingualism in today's interconnected world.
His insights reinforced Ustinov College's vision of preparing students to become global citizens who value and understand cultural diversity.
Mr Critchley highlighted the role languages play in enhancing cultural empathy and global cooperation.
A spokesperson said Ustinov College's observance of International Mother Language Day was a "profound declaration of its ongoing commitment to promoting linguistic and cultural diversity".
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They said: "The celebration attracted a wide range of participants, showcasing Ustinov College's role as a vibrant hub for cultural and linguistic exchange.
"The event's agenda included thought-provoking discussions and cultural performances, offering a dynamic platform for exploring the world's linguistic heritage."
Traditional South Asian refreshments provided by a local Deli in Durham named Bagel Break also attracted guests in the evening.
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