Multilingual education - a pillar of intergenerational learning

India is my home, and Bengali is the language that sings in my heart. But recently, I embarked on a new adventure - learning Dutch! This journey brought me face-to-face with a powerful truth: anyone can be ready to learn a new language.

Imagine a world where grandparents and grandchildren chat easily, sharing stories and traditions across generations. This isn't just a dream, but a reality fostered by multilingual education, the theme of this year's International Mother Language Day!

Grandparents become treasure chests of history, languages, and culture. Imagine learning about sarees from your Bengali grandma or weekend plans from a Dutch granny using their own languages! Multilingual programs bridge the gap, strengthening family bonds and keeping traditions alive. Even fun things like mimicking accents create connections!

Sadly, many languages face danger, with 40% of people lacking access to education in their native tongue. Research shows learning in your mother tongue leads to better understanding, confidence, and thinking skills. This is why UNESCO champions cultural and linguistic diversity, fostering tolerance and respect.

Languages carry cultures. Being multilingual allows you to understand different ways of life, making you a bridge between cultures and a positive representative of your own. When I started learning Dutch, even saying "Ik spreek een beetje Nederlands" (I speak a little Dutch) touched hearts and opened doors.

Challenges exist. There are fewer resources and teachers, and technology can create divides. But let's turn it around! Imagine online platforms with diverse languages connecting learners worldwide. Imagine elders and youth collaborating on digital archives, keeping languages alive.

This International Mother Language Day, let's celebrate not just our own languages, but the richness of all languages. Embrace learning, support multilingual education, and share your culture with the world. Together, we can build bridges between generations and cultures, weaving a beautiful tapestry of human connection.

Remember, anyone can learn a new language! Every voice deserves to be heard, every language deserves to thrive.