Preserving and Promoting Mother Tongue: A Cultural and Educational Imperative

Language is not just a means of communication; it is the bedrock of culture and identity. The language we speak is
more than just a tool for conveying our thoughts and feelings; it is a vessel carrying the collective wisdom, stories,
and traditions of our ancestors. In this essay, we will delve into the significance of preserving and promoting the
mother tongue, not only from a cultural perspective but also within the context of education. This mission is closely
associated with the broader concept of multilingualism, which plays a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity,
understanding, and the preservation of cultural diversity.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has been at the forefront of
advocating for multilingual education based on the mother tongue, particularly during the early years of schooling.
This approach has been recognized as a key pillar for fostering inclusion and ensuring quality learning outcomes. By
providing instruction in a child's mother tongue, educational institutions can bridge the knowledge gap and enhance
the speed of learning and comprehension. Multilingual education rooted in the mother tongue empowers all
learners to fully participate in society, promoting mutual understanding and respect among diverse linguistic
communities. Moreover, it is a powerful tool for preserving the wealth of cultural and traditional heritage embedded
in every language spoken worldwide.

The chapter "The Last Lesson," underscores the importance of preserving and promoting the mother tongue. As the
digital divide widens, the significance of mother tongue education becomes increasingly paramount. This education
serves as the foundation upon which learners can build their understanding of the world, while simultaneously
nurturing a profound sense of identity and belonging. In an increasingly interconnected world, speaking multiple
languages is vital for personal and professional growth.

Nevertheless, despite the undeniable importance of mother tongue education, there is still a long journey ahead
before guaranteeing all learners their right to be educated in their mother language. In many countries, the majority
of students are taught in a language other than their mother tongue, which compromises their ability to learn
effectively.

This language exclusion has grave consequences for educational outcomes and the preservation of cultural heritage.
In the quest to homogenize education systems, numerous languages are pushed to the brink of extinction, depriving
the world of their unique insights, wisdom, and artistry. Each time a language vanishes, it takes with it an entire
cultural and intellectual heritage, leaving future generations impoverished. This is a stark reminder of the urgent
need to preserve and promote mother tongues.

Furthermore, the digital divide exacerbates the linguistic divide. Many languages are not adequately represented on
the Internet, creating a significant linguistic gap in the digital realm. The inclusion of languages in the digital world is
not just a matter of convenience; it is essential for cultural preservation and equitable access to information. Efforts
must be made to develop inclusive learning content in various languages, ensuring that learners can access
educational resources regardless of their linguistic background.

Remote learning based on the mother tongue should also be incorporated into education systems. This would
ensure that all learners, particularly those from linguistic minorities, have access to education during school closures
and beyond. As the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted, the ability to adapt to remote learning is crucial, and this
adaptation should extend to all linguistic groups. In this way, education becomes a tool for empowerment rather
than an instrument of linguistic erasure.

In the context of "Last Lesson," we can discern the importance of embracing mother tongue education as a vehicle
for cultural preservation and educational empowerment. The chapter tells the story of the annexation of Alsace and
Lorraine by the Germans in the late 19th century and how it affected the lives of the people, particularly the school
children who were forced to learn the German language instead of their beloved French. This story, inspired by real
historical events, serves as a metaphorical narrative, illustrating the urgency of preserving and promoting mother
tongues.
Franz's story is a poignant reminder of the price of linguistic assimilation. His mother tongue, French is marginalized
and on the brink of extinction due to the political decisions of the time. The consequences of this linguistic
oppression resonate with the broader issue of language extinction, as countless languages face a similar fate today.
The loss of one's mother tongue not only robs individuals of their cultural identity but also limits their ability to fully
engage in society and access the collective knowledge embedded in their language.

The chapter "Last Lesson " underscores the importance of fostering multilingualism and ensuring that no language is
left behind in the digital age. Technology should be harnessed to facilitate access to mother tongue education,
thereby bridging the digital and linguistic divides.

In conclusion, preserving and promoting the mother tongue is both a cultural and educational imperative,
inextricably linked to the concept of multilingualism. It is not merely a matter of linguistic diversity; it is a
commitment to inclusivity, understanding, and cultural preservation. By supporting mother tongue education and
multilingualism, we can help safeguard valuable cultural heritage and ensure that future generations can access their
cultural roots. Promoting education in mother languages is a pivotal step toward fostering original thought,
preserving cultural heritage, and promoting academic success. As we navigate the digital age, let us remember that
technology should be a bridge, not a barrier, to linguistic and cultural diversity. We must ensure that no language is
left behind and that all individuals can access the wealth of knowledge and identity embedded in their mother
tongues. Through these efforts, we can truly appreciate the rich tapestry of human culture and wisdom that
languages offer to our global community.

Bibliography

https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/why-mother-language-based-education-essential

https://www.drishtiias.com/blog/the-heart-of-culture-preserving-mother-language