Faculty and students of MGM College during the International Mother Language Day programme on February 21.
Dimapur, February 21 (MExN): MGM College on Saturday observed International Mother Language Day with a culturally vibrant programme under the theme “Multilingualism in the Present Age”, highlighting the need to preserve mother tongues and promote respect for linguistic diversity in a globalised world.
The programme was chaired by Meribemo Yanthan, who delivered the welcome address, emphasising the intrinsic link between language, culture, identity and roots. He said a mother tongue is not merely a means of communication but represents the soul of a community.
Adding cultural richness to the event, 6th Semester students presented a Mizo song, which was warmly received by the audience and reflected the diversity of India’s linguistic heritage.
An inspiring message was delivered by Jemsungba Walling, Assistant Professor, Department of English and IQAC Coordinator. He spoke on the global significance of International Mother Language Day and underscored the responsibility of both individuals and institutions to safeguard indigenous languages.
Walling said multilingualism goes beyond learning multiple languages and involves respecting and embracing the cultures embedded within them. He cautioned that the disappearance of a language results in the irreversible loss of a part of humanity.
A key highlight of the celebration was a Folk Narrative Competition, where participants narrated folktales from their respective communities, showcasing the richness of indigenous traditions and oral histories.
The competition was judged by R K Behera, Principal, and Christine Murry, Assistant Professor, Department of English.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ahikali I Jakha, Head of the Department of English, who expressed gratitude to the organisers, participants, judges and students for their active involvement in making the event meaningful and successful.
The observance reaffirmed the college’s commitment to cultural preservation, inclusivity and the celebration of linguistic diversity.
