3 individuals, 1 organization receive International Mother Language Award

The first-ever International Mother Language Award has been conferred on three people and an organization for their contribution to preservation and promotion of mother language nationally and internationally.

Education Minister Dipu Moni handed over the awards on behalf of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday during an event at the International Mother Language Institute in Dhaka.

The premier attended the ceremony virtually from her official residence Ganabhaban.

National Professor Mohammad Rafiqul Islamhas been honoured for his contribution at the national level.

A Nazrul researcher, Prof Rafiqul is the first Nazrul Professor of Dhaka University’s Bangla Department and the first director of Nazrul Research Institute.

A former vice-chancellor of the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh and director general of Bangla Academy, Prof Rafiqul won the Ekushey Padak, Swadhinata Padak, and Bangla Academy Award among others.

Mathura Bikash Tripura, executive director of Jabrang Welfare Association in Khagrachhari, received the award for his work to protect the native tongues of small ethnic groups.

At the international level, Islaimov Gulom Mirzaevich, an Uzbek researcher, and The Activismmo Lenkuas, a Bolivian organization, have got the award.

Mirzaevich has played a role in research, practice, and culture of mother language protection revitalization in Uzbekistan, and abroad.

The Activismo Lenguas is an online initiative to support networks of indigenous language digital activists in Latin America.

The International Mother Language Institute launched the biennial award this year to recognize contributions made to preserve and promote mother languages home and abroad.