In the heart of Bangladesh, the 21st of February is more than just a date. It is a celebration of linguistic diversity, cultural identity, and the profound influence of mother languages. On this day, Bangladesh pays homage to the sacrifices made during the Language Movement of 1952, which ultimately led to the recognition of Bangla as the official language. Beyond its historical roots, the celebration of 21st February is a testament to the empowering influence of mother languages, shaping individual development and leaving a significant impact on the corporate landscape.
MOTHER TONGUE, OUR FOUNDATION
Mother tongue, or the language spoken at home and within a community, is the foundation upon which individuals build their understanding of the world. In Bangladesh, where linguistic diversity is a hallmark, the influence of mother language is profound. It is through one’s mother tongue that values, traditions, and cultural nuances are transmitted from one generation to the next. The power of mother language lies not only in its ability to facilitate communication but also in its role as a vehicle for preserving cultural heritage.
INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH MOTHER LANGUAGE
Language is more than a means of communication; it is a tool for cognitive development and personal expression. Studies have shown that individuals who are proficient in their mother language tend to have better cognitive abilities and a deeper understanding of complex concepts. When education is imparted in one’s mother language, it facilitates a smoother learning process, leading to improved academic performance and a more profound connection with knowledge.
Furthermore, the emotional and psychological impact of using one’s mother language is undeniable. It provides a sense of belonging, fosters self-confidence, and allows individuals to express themselves more authentically. The development of critical thinking skills, creativity, and emotional intelligence is intricately tied to the use and mastery of one’s mother language.
CORPORATE COMMUNICATION AND THE MOTHER TONGUE
In the corporate landscape of Bangladesh, the acknowledgment of the power of mother language is becoming increasingly prominent. Many companies recognise that a multilingual workforce brings a richness of perspectives and ideas. This diversity not only enhances creativity and problem-solving but also contributes to a more inclusive and vibrant corporate culture.
Corporates are now placing emphasis on creating language-friendly environments where employees are encouraged to communicate in their mother languages. This not only promotes a sense of cultural pride but also facilitates effective communication, reducing misunderstandings and improving overall workplace dynamics.
Recognising the influence of mother languages, some corporations in Bangladesh have implemented language training programmes to enhance employees’ proficiency in their mother tongue. This initiative not only helps individuals communicate more effectively but also fosters a deeper connection between employees and the corporate culture.
MANY COMPANIES RECOGNISE THAT A MULTILINGUAL WORKFORCE BRINGS A RICHNESS OF PERSPECTIVES AND IDEAS. THIS DIVERSITY NOT ONLY ENHANCES CREATIVITY AND PROBLEM-SOLVING BUT ALSO CONTRIBUTES TO A MORE INCLUSIVE AND VIBRANT CORPORATE CULTURE.
DEVELOPING PROFICIENCY OF OUR MOTHER TONGUE
As a professional or aspiring professional, we focus on improving our communications as much as possible. But improving our English communication does not mean demeaning our mother language. English, the international language, is a way of extracting useful and effective information and interacting with people from various backgrounds or nationalities. It is also a way to communicate the richness, history, culture, and diversity of our country to the world. So, learning and developing a foreign language for work or education purposes should not mean undermining one’s mother language. It should be a blended learning and development process where one enhances both a foreign or international language as well as their own mother language.
As Bangladesh commemorates the International Mother Language Day on 21st February, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the profound influence of mother languages. These languages are not just a means of communication; they are powerful agents of individual development and cultural preservation. In the corporate sphere, the acknowledgment and celebration of linguistic diversity contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic work environment. As we honor the sacrifices made for the recognition of Bangla as the official language, let us also celebrate the richness and power that mother languages bring to our lives and workplaces.