Diplomatic Correspondent

'Martyrs' Day and International Mother Language Day 2024' was celebrated in the Philippines through an exceptional arrangement organized by the Bangladesh Embassy in Manila.

The Embassy jointly organized a symposium and cultural program with the country's leading educational institution, the University of the Philippines and the United Nations Philippines Office. Around 250 guests, including faculty of various subjects of the University of the Philippines, diplomats of various embassies, representatives of international and multinational organizations, university students, media workers, participated in the symposium.

A symposium titled 'Multilingual Education: An Essential Strategy for Transforming Education Systems' was organized on the occasion of International Mother Language Day at the Nismed Auditorium of the University of the Philippines Diliman Campus today, Wednesday at 10 am local time. Edgardo Carlo Vistan, Vice-Chancellor of the University's Diliman Campus, spoke at the event; Ruth Lustero Rico, Dean of the Faculty of Sociology and Philosophy; Gustav Gonzales, United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Philippines and FM Borhan Uddin, Ambassador of Bangladesh in the Philippines.

Dina Joana Ocampo, head of the College of Education, University of the Philippines, presented the keynote address at the symposium. At the end of the symposium Maria Cristina, head associate professor of linguistics department of the university gave a speech of thanks.

Ambassador FM Borhan Uddin in his speech highlighted the historical context of Bangladesh's leadership in observing the International Mother Language Day and described its significance.

Keynote presenter Dina Ocampo said in her presentation that multilingualism creates an open and inclusive society for all. Citing sources from several research papers to support his statement, he emphasized the importance of using a common language for children in families and educational institutions. He pointed out that the economy, society and education policies of the respective countries are very important in preserving the language and culture of different countries of the world.

Gustav Gonzales said in his message that multilingual and multicultural societies are faced with many obstacles by well-preserved languages. Mother tongue and multilingualism are a cornerstone for ensuring equal opportunities and equitable education for all.

Vice-Chancellor Edgardo Carlo Vistan said in his congratulatory speech that the recognition of February 1 as International Mother Language Day by the United Nations reflected the sentiments of the common people of Bangladesh. He applauded the Bangladesh Embassy, United Nations Office and Department of Linguistics of the University of the Philippines for jointly organizing such a symposium.

A delightful cultural performance was held at the end of the symposium. First of all, Ekush's immortal song 'Amar Bhai's blood colored Ekushe February' sung collectively by artistes of different countries in 12 languages is shown. Then the popular dance troupe of the university performed mesmerizing dances to the beats of local cultural traditions and songs rendered in regional languages. After the event, a special lunch of Bangladeshi cuisine was organized in honor of the guests.

Earlier, Ambassador FM Borhan Uddin hoisted the national flag and lowered it to half-mast at Bangladesh House at seven in the morning. Embassy officials were present at this time. Then a minute silence was observed to pay tribute to the martyrs of the great language movement.

After observing the silence, everyone present paid their respects to the language martyrs by placing wreaths at the temporary Shaheed Minar in the premises of Bangladesh House under the leadership of Ambassador FM Borhan Uddin. Then the speeches of the President, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister on the occasion of the day were read out.