08 Sep
Multilingual Education is the basis of Mutual Understanding and Peace
As the world grows increasingly interconnected, the theme for International Literacy Day 2024—"Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace"—offers a poignant reminder of the power of language in fostering global harmony. This year’s celebration underscores the crucial role that multilingual education plays in bridging cultural divides and promoting peace. It’s a call to action for educators, policymakers, and communities to champion the rich tapestry of languages and dialects that make up our world.
The Power of Multilingual Education
Multilingual education is more than just learning multiple languages; it's about embracing diverse ways of thinking and communicating. It equips individuals with the tools to engage in a global dialogue, appreciate cultural nuances, and solve complex problems collaboratively. In a world rife with misunderstandings and conflicts, multilingualism fosters mutual respect and understanding.
Imagine a classroom where students are not only taught in their native tongue but also engage with content in additional languages. This approach not only enhances cognitive skills but also broadens students’ perspectives, allowing them to see the world through multiple lenses. The benefits extend beyond individual achievement, impacting societal cohesion and global collaboration.
The Benefits of Multilingualism
- Enhanced Cognitive Abilities: Learning multiple languages strengthens cognitive skills such as problem-solving, multitasking, and critical thinking. It enhances brain function and can delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline.
- Cultural Appreciation: Multilingual education fosters a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity. Students gain insights into different traditions, values, and worldviews, promoting empathy and reducing prejudice.
- Global Competence: In our globalized economy, multilingual individuals are better equipped to navigate international markets, build cross-cultural relationships, and contribute to global dialogue. This competency is invaluable in diplomatic and business contexts.
- Social Integration: For immigrant and minority communities, multilingual education supports integration while preserving linguistic heritage. It helps bridge the gap between diverse groups, fostering inclusivity and social harmony.
As the world grows increasingly interconnected, the theme for International Literacy Day 2024—"Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace"—offers a poignant reminder of the power of language in fostering global harmony. This year’s celebration underscores the crucial role that multilingual education plays in bridging cultural divides and promoting peace. It’s a call to action for educators, policymakers, and communities to champion the rich tapestry of languages and dialects that make up our world.
The Power of Multilingual Education
Multilingual education is more than just learning multiple languages; it's about embracing diverse ways of thinking and communicating. It equips individuals with the tools to engage in a global dialogue, appreciate cultural nuances, and solve complex problems collaboratively. In a world rife with misunderstandings and conflicts, multilingualism fosters mutual respect and understanding.
Imagine a classroom where students are not only taught in their native tongue but also engage with content in additional languages. This approach not only enhances cognitive skills but also broadens students’ perspectives, allowing them to see the world through multiple lenses. The benefits extend beyond individual achievement, impacting societal cohesion and global collaboration.
The Benefits of Multilingualism
- Enhanced Cognitive Abilities: Learning multiple languages strengthens cognitive skills such as problem-solving, multitasking, and critical thinking. It enhances brain function and can delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline.
- Cultural Appreciation: Multilingual education fosters a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity. Students gain insights into different traditions, values, and worldviews, promoting empathy and reducing prejudice.
- Global Competence: In our globalized economy, multilingual individuals are better equipped to navigate international markets, build cross-cultural relationships, and contribute to global dialogue. This competency is invaluable in diplomatic and business contexts.
- Social Integration: For immigrant and minority communities, multilingual education supports integration while preserving linguistic heritage. It helps bridge the gap between diverse groups, fostering inclusivity and social harmony.
Success Stories from Around the World
Several countries and regions have made significant strides in multilingual education, providing inspiring models for others to follow: like Switzerland, Canada, South Africa and last but not least India
India’s linguistic diversity presents both a challenge and an opportunity for its education system. The Indian Constitution recognises 22 languages under the Eighth Schedule, reflecting the country's rich cultural and linguistic heritage. This diversity necessitates a multilingual approach in education to ensure that students can learn effectively in their mother tongues while also gaining proficiency in additional languages. In various states, the implementation of multilingual education has been a priority to ater to its varied population.
These initiatives not only help preserve linguistic heritage but also prepare students for a globalised world by enhancing their communication skills in multiple languages. Multilingual education in India fosters social cohesion by bridging linguistic and cultural gaps and promotes national integration.
As we celebrate International Literacy Day 2024, it’s essential for individuals and institutions to advocate for and support multilingual education. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Support Multilingual Programs: Advocate for policies that promote multilingual education in schools and communities. Support organizations that work to develop and implement multilingual curricula.
- Promote Language Learning: Encourage language learning in your own life and within your community. Whether through formal education or casual practice, every effort counts.
- Celebrate Linguistic Diversity: Embrace and celebrate the languages and cultures within your community. Participate in events, workshops, and cultural exchanges that highlight linguistic diversity.
- Invest in Resources: Support initiatives that provide resources for multilingual education, including textbooks, digital tools, and teacher training programs.
International Literacy Day 2024 serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of multilingual education. By promoting literacy in multiple languages, we pave the way for mutual understanding, respect, and peace. As we honor this day, let’s commit to advancing multilingual education and embracing the rich, diverse tapestry of human language. In doing so, we contribute to a more harmonious and interconnected world, where every voice is heard and valued.
GOPSAI AVINANDAN SANGHA
Editor
PAHAR PUJO A UNIQUE EXPRESSION OF NATURE WORSHIP AND INDIGENIOUS ...
জঙ্গলমহল - বাঁকুড়া, পুরুলিয়া, ঝাড়গ্রাম ও পশ্চিম মেদিনীপুরের বিস্তীর্ণ অঞ্চল - প্রাচীনকাল থেকেই এক অনন্য সংস্কৃতি, লোকবিশ্বাস ও প্রকৃতি -পূজার পীঠস্থান। এখানকার অজস্র পাহাড়, জঙ্গল, নদী আর লাল মাটির বুক জুড়ে গড়ে উঠেছে হাজারো বছরের আদিবাসী আচার-অনুষ্ঠান। তারই একটি গভীর অথচ আজ প্রায় বিস্মৃত প্রথা হলো পাহাড় পূজা। পাহাড় পূজা এক আচার, যা কোনও ধর্মগ্রন্থে লেখা নেই, তবু শতাব্দীর পর শতাব্দী ধরে এখানকার মানুষ মন প্রাণ ঢেলে পালন করে আসছে।
World Music Day Celebrating Indias Enduring Sonic Heritage and Its ...
World Music Day, celebrated annually on June 21st, isn't just about listening to tunes, it's a magnificent opportunity to immerse ourselves in the soul-stirring depths of India's profound sonic heritage. This isn't just a day for melodies, it's a global stage to truly appreciate a legacy that has captivated hearts and minds for centuries. From the ancient, resonant echoes of Vedic chants that predate recorded history, to the intricate, emotive landscapes of classical ragas like Hindustani and Carnatic, India's musical journey is a testament to its rich cultural revolution. Imagine the centuries of devotion and discipline poured into perfecting each note, each nuanced phrase, designed not just to entertain but to evoke specific emotions and connect with the divine. The very fabric of Indian classical music has been woven by titans whose names resonate through time. Think of the sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar, who brought Indian classical music to the global stage through his iconic collaborations with Western artists like George Harrison. Or the captivating voice of Bharat Ratna M.S. Subbulakshmi, whose devotion to Carnatic music touched millions. In Hindustani classical, the powerful and soulful renditions of Pandit Bhimsen Joshi (Khayal) and the unparalleled mastery of the shehnai by Ustad Bismillah Khan continue to inspire awe. And who can forget the rhythmic genius of tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain, who has pushed the boundaries of percussion across genres. Beyond the classical and folk traditions, towering figures have shaped the modern musical landscape. Rabindranath Tagore, India's first Nobel laureate and a true polymath, made an unparalleled contribution through Rabindra Sangeet. He composed over 2,000 songs, blending elements of Hindustani classical, folk melodies, and Western influences, often setting them to his own poetry. Rabindranath Tagore's music is not merely an accompaniment to his words, it's an integral part of his philosophy, expressing a vast range of human emotions, spiritual insights, and love for nature and country. His compositions are a distinct and beloved genre, deeply ingrained in the cultural psyche of Bengal and beyond. But India's musical story isn't confined to grand concert halls. It thrives in the vibrant rhythms of its diverse folk music, echoing across sun-drenched fields, bustling village squares, and festive celebrations. Each region, each community, boasts its own unique musical dialect – from the spirited bhangra of Punjab to the soulful baul songs of Bengal, and the captivating Lavani of Maharashtra. These are the sounds of daily life, of stories passed down through generations, of shared joy and collective spirit. Legendary folk artists like Bhupen Hazarika from Assam, whose poignant songs spoke of humanity and social justice, or the mesmerizing voices of the Nooran Sisters in Sufi music, have ensured these traditions continue to flourish. India's sonic landscape is constantly evolving, embracing innovative fusions of contemporary genres. Modern Indian artists, championed by trailblazers like the Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman, are fearlessly blending traditional instruments and melodies with Western influences, creating sounds that are both rooted in heritage and refreshingly new. The golden voices of playback singers like Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar and Mohammed Rafi have defined generations of Bollywood music. In current scenario Kumar Sanu, Alka Yagnik, Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghosal, Arijit Singh and so many singers showcasing the versatility and emotional depth of Indian vocal artistry. On this World Music Day, let's not just passively listen, but actively recognize and appreciate the intricate melodies, complex rhythmic structures, and the undeniable spiritual depth embedded within Indian music. It's a reminder of its enduring influence, not just on India's own vibrant culture, but on the wider world, inspiring musicians and enchanting audiences across continents.
Tonumoy Bhattacharya