Kgolo-Lotshwao told Arts&Culture in an interview following last week’s postponement of the commemoration of the International Mother Language Day (IMLD) that the university had planned to hold IMDL commemorations on campus, bringing together students, academics, and the broader community to celebrate and reflect on the significance of mother languages. She stated that IMLD raises awareness about the importance of linguistic diversity and the need to protect endangered languages. She further explained that mother language shapes an individual’s identity, worldview, and cultural connections. She said it is the primary medium through which values, traditions and histories are transmitted across generations. Mother language also supports cognitive development and enhances an individual’s ability to learn additional languages. “IMLD serves as a reminder of the need to protect endangered languages, promote multilingualism, and ensure inclusive education for all. The day also highlights how languages contribute to identity, social cohesion, and sustainable development. Celebrating IMLD reinforces the idea that every language matters and should be valued in both personal and public life.
This year’s theme is “Languages Matter: Silver Jubilee Celebration of International Mother Language Day,” which marks 25 years of promoting linguistic and cultural diversity globally,” she said. Kgolo-Lotswalo stated that the theme emphasises the enduring significance of mother languages and aligns with the UB’s commitment to celebrating and preserving Botswana’s linguistic heritage. She added that the Faculty of Humanities hosts the annual commemoration because it is the home of languages at the University of Botswana. Furthermore, she noted that linguists from the Humanities were driving the implementation of indigenous languages in schools in Botswana. The theme is also said to highlight the value of language in fostering cultural pride and economic opportunities, as demonstrated by local artists who use their mother tongues in their work. She said locally, the most prevalent challenge to using the mother tongue is the societal perception that some mother tongues are less prestigious or useful compared to dominant languages like Setswana and English. “This linguistic insecurity leads to the marginalisation of minority languages and discourages their use in formal settings, including education and media. Studies on campus have shown that some students shy away from using their mother languages on campus, for example. There is limited institutional support for promoting indigenous languages, resulting in fewer opportunities for their active use and development,” she said.
