BY THE WAY: Mother Language–Based Education A Fundamental Need

Dr Noour Ali Zehgeer

Mother language–based education (often called mother tongue-based multilingual education) emphasizes teaching children in their first language during the early years of schooling, before gradually introducing additional languages. This approach has gained global recognition for its role in improving learning outcomes and preserving cultural identity. Having said so in India Politics are being played for the languages also and citizens have show reluctance in accepting other languages as compulsory one. The prefer mother tongue to be recognised for official work also.

UNESCO has declared 21st February as International Mother Language Day to promote the preservation of mother languages and to raise awareness about linguistic and cultural diversity across the world. The day is meant to strengthen solidarity through understanding, tolerance, and dialogue. UNESCO strongly advocates that education in a child’s first language should begin in the early years, as Early Childhood Care and Education forms the foundation of lifelong learning.

A mother language is typically the language a child speaks at home with family members. Mother language–based education means integrating the child’s home language into classroom teaching and learning. The mother language plays a crucial role in shaping personal, social, and cultural identity. While language is a tool of communication, the mother language connects individuals to their heritage, traditions, and cultural roots. Children understand concepts faster when taught in their mother language because it strengthens core skills such as literacy, comprehension, and critical thinking.

We cannot ignore on a global platform for every professional he has to learn English other than his/her Mother tongue.

A strong foundation in the mother language also makes it easier for children to learn second or additional languages. Cognitive and intellectual development is faster when a learner is proficient in their first language. Children studying in their mother language feel more comfortable and confident in school, which improves their overall learning outcomes. They grasp the curriculum better and do not struggle when transitioning to another language later. Additionally, parent–child interaction improves because parents can support their children academically in a familiar language. Mastery of the mother language also boosts confidence and self-esteem.

Despite its importance, access to mother language education remains limited in many parts of the world. A significant number of children are taught in languages they neither speak nor fully understand. Nearly 40% of the global population lacks access to education in a language they use in daily life. In India, the mother language is often sidelined in the name of globalization, particularly in English-medium education systems. Many teachers at the grassroots level are not fully fluent in foreign languages, which creates barriers in knowledge transfer and learning. As a result, students often face learning gaps and reduced academic confidence.

Children whose home language differs from the medium of instruction are more likely to drop out or struggle academically in early grades. Recognizing this, the Government of India introduced the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which strongly recommends using the mother tongue or local language as the medium of instruction at least until Grade 5, and preferably up to Grade 8 and beyond. The policy also emphasizes the availability of quality textbooks in local languages and encourages bilingual teaching approaches to support diverse learners.

Every year, Matribhasha Diwas is celebrated in schools across India to promote linguistic diversity and cultural harmony. The celebration aims to:
Promote unity within linguistic diversity,
Encourage respect for all Indian languages alongside one’s own mother tongue,
Help students understand India’s diverse cultures, literature, art forms, and scripts.

The mother language is a powerful tool for effective learning and holistic development. To ensure quality education for all, strict implementation of mother language–based education policies is essential in both government and private schools. Strengthening mother language education will not only improve learning outcomes but also preserve cultural heritage and linguistic identity for future generations.

(STRAIGHT TALK COMMUNICATIONS EXCLUSIVE)