French is becoming increasingly popular among professionals and students in Bangladesh. Being one of the leading international languages of the world, skills in the French language can open career and academic opportunities for Bangladeshis. Besides, several European countries and Canada value French language skills for immigration. Let’s delve into several learning centers in Dhaka that offer French language courses.  Some Popular Places to Learn French in Dhaka City Alliance Française de Dhaka  Alliance Française de Dhaka or AFD is the premier organization in Bangladesh for learning French. The non-profit organization has been working in Bangladesh since 1959 and is playing a key role in promoting French art and culture in the country.  AFD offers French learning options for children, teens, and adults. They have both extensive and intensive courses for each level. In addition to A1, A2, B1, and B2, AFD also has a “Beginner” course to start things off from absolute basics. All of the classes are conducted offline. The course duration is about 40 hours for the extensive program and 76 hours for the intensive one. The cost varies depending on the age group and course type. The fees range from 3,500 BDT (non-beginner children) to 16,600 BDT (extensive adults). The intensive program for adults can cost up to 19,800 BDT with books. Read more: Essential Skills to Learn Before Going to Study Abroad Institute of Modern Languages (IML), Dhaka University  The Institute of Modern Languages of Dhaka University is one of the oldest language research projects and learning institutes in Bangladesh. Founded in 1974, IML works as an instituted faculty under Dhaka University and offers bachelor's, master's, Ph.D., and M.Phil. in selected linguistics and culture.  Currently, IML offers non-degree certificate courses in 13 different languages including French. The French language course curriculum comprises 1 year in the junior certificate course and senior certificate course. The minimum requirement to be admitted to the junior certificate course is to have at least a 2.5 GPA in HSC.  There’s also a 3-month long short course (60 Hours) on French language. All of the classes are conducted offline. The application fee is 500 BDT and the course fee is 9,500 BDT. BRAC Institute of Languages (BIL), BRAC University  BRAC Institute of Languages or BIL is the third UGC-approved language research institute of Bangladesh. BIL started its journey in modular form offering English language courses to the students of BRAC University back in 2005.  Read more: Getting International German Language Certificates from Bangladesh: A Comprehensive Guide Over the years, the modular structure evolved into a structured language research institute which was then renamed as BIL in 2012.  As part of its Modern Languages curriculum, BIL offers courses in 7 different languages including French. Currently, BIL offers on-campus offline beginner-level courses in French. The course fee for the program is 6150 BDT.  Shield Language Academy Dhaka  Shield Language Academy Dhaka is another leading institute for learning French in Dhaka. With over several years of experience, Shield is a trusted language learning center specializing in different languages.  Shield Academy offers A1 to B2 level programs for the French language. The duration for each of the courses is 4 months with 2 classes per week. The cost of each course is 16,500 BDT. Additionally, the admission fee will be 1000 BDT and the textbook and workbook fee will also be 1000 BDT.  Read more: 10 Ways You Can Improve Your English Pronunciation AIUB Institute of Continuing Education  AIUB Institute of Continuing Education started its journey back in 2007 as a means to provide technical skill development programs to the graduates of the university. The aim was to make them industry-ready and initiate essential skills to thrust them ahead in the job market.  Over the years, AIUB ICE has expanded into a diverse foray of skill development including foreign language courses. Currently, it provides A1, A2, B1, and B2 level French courses to its students as well as outsiders.  The duration of the French course of ICE is about 4 months. Classes are held on Fridays and the medium of instruction is online. The cost of each level is 9000 BDT.  Daffodil Institute of Languages, Daffodil University  Daffodil Institute of Languages was formed as part of Daffodil University’s outreach upskilling program. DIL aims to provide certified knowledge of foreign languages to individuals to help in their career prospects. Currently, DIL offers certificate courses in English, pre-university English, Japanese, Chinese, French, and Quranic Arabic.  Read more: 10 Best Free Android Apps to Learn English Vocabulary Currently, DIL is offering an A1-level French course. The duration of the course is 2 months with three classes per week. The cost of the course is 30,000 BDT including the registration fee for the A1 DELF exam. 

Annually, thousands of students embark on a journey beyond their borders to pursue higher education. This adventure, although promising, can be laden with challenges. To navigate these waters successfully, students must arm themselves with a set of skills that transcend academic prowess. This guide delves into the top ten skills indispensable for a rewarding study abroad experience. 10 Essential Skills to Learn Before Going to Study Abroad Independence: The Foundation of Overseas Education Independence is the most significant transformation students encounter when studying abroad. It's a multifaceted skill encompassing self-reliance and responsibility. From basic chores like laundry and grocery shopping to more complex tasks like managing personal finances and making informed decisions, independence is critical. Developing problem-solving skills to tackle unexpected challenges is equally important, as it ensures students can handle various situations without constant guidance. Read more: 10 Essential Life Skills for Teens to Learn before College Research and Planning: Your Blueprint for Success A thorough understanding of your destination's culture, legal system, and day-to-day life is vital. This means researching not just your academic institution and its curriculum, but also local customs, public transportation, and essential services. Effective planning helps mitigate culture shock and eases the transition, making your study abroad experience more enjoyable and less overwhelming. Financial Literacy: Navigating Economic Waters Abroad Mastering local banking systems and effective budgeting are paramount. Learn how to open a bank account, manage transactions, and understand currency exchange rates. Budgeting becomes a lifeline abroad; it involves setting realistic spending limits for various needs, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. Regularly tracking expenses helps avoid financial pitfalls and ensures a sustainable lifestyle. Cross-Cultural Communication: Bridging the Gap Adapting to a new culture requires a deep understanding of both verbal and non-verbal communication. This includes being aware of cultural norms in conversation, greetings, and gestures. Respectful and empathetic communication is key to forming meaningful relationships and avoiding misunderstandings. Embracing the local language, even at a basic level, can significantly enrich interactions and open doors to deeper cultural insights. Adaptability and Empathy: The Heart of Cultural Immersion The ability to adapt to new environments and empathize with different cultures is crucial. This skill is about more than just surviving; it's about thriving in a foreign setting. Adaptability means being open to new experiences, whether it’s adjusting to different academic structures or embracing unique social customs. Empathy allows you to appreciate and respect cultural differences, fostering a more inclusive and enriching experience.

Embarking on a journey to learn the German language can open up a world of opportunities for higher studies and professional growth. With its rich cultural heritage, strong economy, and influential position in the European Union, Germany has become an attractive destination for students and job seekers. Whether you aspire to pursue a degree at a renowned German university, or secure employment in a German company, mastering German language can pave the way to success. Bangladeshi students are embracing this success every year. If you also cherish the dream to be one of them, this article is for you. Let's take a look into how to get International German Language Certificates from Bangladesh. How to Get International German Language Certificates from Bangladesh Eligibility for Getting International German Language Certificates The Goethe-Institut offers a range of exams for Bangladeshi students of different age groups, providing opportunities to obtain international German language certificates. Let’s explore the exams and their age eligibility: Criteria for A1 Level Certificate Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Fit in Deutsch 1 (FD 1) Age Eligibility: 10 to 16 years old.Language Skills: Fluency in German at the A1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a prerequisite for candidates.Course Requirement: Completion of 80 to 200 45-minute units of teaching, depending on previous knowledge and learning requirements. Read more: 10 Most Useful Foreign Languages to Learn in 2022 Goethe-Zertifikat A1: Start Deutsch 1 (SD 1) Age Eligibility: Minimum 16 years old.Language Skills: Candidates must have German language skills corresponding to the A1 level of the CEFR.Course Requirement: Completion of 80 to 200 45-minute units of teaching, depending on previous knowledge and learning requirements. Criteria for A2 Level Certificate Goethe-Zertifikat A2: Fit in Deutsch (FD) Age Eligibility: Minimum 12 years old.Language Skills: Candidates must have German language skills corresponding to the A2 level of the CEFR.Course Requirement: Completion of 200 to 350 45-minute classes, depending on previous knowledge and learning requirements. Goethe-Zertifikat A2 Age Eligibility: Minimum 16 years old.Language Skills: Candidates must have German language skills corresponding to the A2 level of the CEFR.Course Requirement: Completion of 200 to 350 45-minute classes, depending on previous knowledge and learning requirements. Criteria for B1 Level Certificate Goethe-Zertifikat B1 Age Eligibility: Minimum 12 years old.Language Skills: Candidates must have German language skills corresponding to the B1 level of the CEFR. Read more: Ausbildung in Germany for Non-EU Students including Bangladesh Criteria for B2 Level Certificate Goethe-Zertifikat B2 Age Eligibility: Minimum age of 15 years.Language Skills: Candidates must have German language skills corresponding to the B2 level of the CEFR. Criteria for C1 Level Certificate Goethe-Zertifikat C1 Age Eligibility: Minimum 16 years old.Language Skills: Candidates must have German language skills corresponding to the C1 level of the CEFR.Course Requirement: Completion of 800 to 1,000 45-minute units of teaching, depending on previous knowledge and learning requirements. Criteria for C2 Level Certificate Goethe-Zertifikat C2: Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom (GDS) Age Eligibility: Minimum age of 18 years.Language Skills: Candidates must have German language skills corresponding to C2, the highest level of competence, according to the CEFR.Course Requirement: Completion of at least 1,000 45-minute units of teaching, depending on previous knowledge and learning requirements. Read more: Higher Study in Germany: Scholarship Opportunities for Bangladeshi and Other International Students Special Certification Criteria TestDaF Age Eligibility: Minimum age of 18 years.Language Skills: The TestDaF determines whether candidates possess the language skills required for studying at a German university or institution of higher education. It corresponds to the B2 and C1 levels of the CEFR.Course Requirement: Candidates should have completed between 700 and 1,000 45-minute units of teaching in German.Goethe-Test PRO Age Eligibility: Minimum 16 years old. List of International German Language Certification Exams If participants take the exam right after the course ends, they get a discount. Students in a course must finish both parts of a level at the Goethe-Institut to be eligible as internal candidates. The fees corresponding to the certification exams for external candidates are given below:  International German Language Certification Exams Goethe-Zertifikat A1 (SD1)Goethe-Zertifikat A1 (Fit in Deutsch)Goethe-Zertifikat A1 (SD1)Goethe-Zertifikat A2 (Fit in Deutsch)Goethe-Zertifikat A2Goethe-Zertifikat B1Goethe-Zertifikat B1 Jugendliche: Fit in DeutschGoethe-Zertifikat B2Goethe-Zertifikat C1Goethe-Zertifikat C2 Source: Goethe Institut Bangladesh Read more: Cheapest countries for Bangladeshi students for higher studies Currently, they are offering certification exams only from A1 to B2 level. The updated information related to the exams is provided in the latest brochure at the time of enrolment. So, please visit their official website or contact them directly to get the current fees for the exams offered by the Goethe-Institut in Bangladesh. Courses for the International German Language Certificates At the Goethe-Institut in Bangladesh, there are various extensive, intensive, and blended learning courses available for international German language learning. Every course typically takes participants a maximum of 22 participants and starts in January, March, June, and September. Let’s get to know in detail about the German language courses and certifications. Extensive and Intensive Course Extensive Online Live A1.1 / A1.2 This course is conducted online and is suitable for beginners at the A1 level. It consists of 2 sessions per week, with each session lasting 4 teaching units of 45 minutes. In total, the course spans 75 teaching units, providing a comprehensive introduction to the German language. Extensive Online Live A2.1 / A2.2 Designed for learners at the A2 level, this online course comprises 2 sessions per week, with each session lasting 4 teaching units of 45 minutes. The total duration of the course is 80 teaching units, allowing participants to strengthen their language skills and advance their proficiency at the A2 level. Intensive Online Live A1 Ideal for learners aiming to rapidly progress through the A1 level, this intensive course takes place online and involves 4 sessions per week, each lasting 3.5 hours. The total duration of the course is 150 teaching units, providing an immersive learning experience and facilitating faster language acquisition. Read more: Top European Countries Offering Free Education for International Students Intensive Online Live A2 Similar to the intensive A1 course, this program is intended for learners at the A2 level. It includes 4 sessions per week, with each session lasting 3.5 hours. The course spans a total of 160 teaching units, allowing participants to consolidate their language skills and enhance their proficiency at the A2 level. Intensive Online Live B1 For learners aspiring to reach the B1 level, this intensive course involves 5 sessions per week, with each session lasting 4 hours and 5 minutes. The course encompasses 190 teaching units and focuses on developing more advanced language skills and cultural understanding. Intensive Online Live B2 Targeting learners at the B2 level, this intensive course consists of 4 sessions per week, each lasting 4 hours and 5 minutes. It spans a total of 190 teaching units and aims to refine language proficiency, expand vocabulary, and strengthen communication abilities at an upper-intermediate level. Intensive Hybrid A1 This course offers a combination of classroom presence and Zoom streaming. Participants alternate between attending classes physically and joining online sessions. It involves 4 sessions per week, with each session lasting 3.5 hours. The course spans a total of 150 teaching units, providing flexibility in learning environments. Intensive Hybrid A2 Similar to the hybrid A1 course, this program is tailored for learners at the A2 level. It includes 4 sessions per week, alternating between classroom and Zoom sessions. Each session lasts 3.5 hours, and the course encompasses a total of 160 teaching units. Read more: How to Pick a College or University Abroad for Higher Education Blended Learning Courses The blended learning course combines classroom sessions and self-study in a 50-50 ratio. Half of the course involves attending classes in a physical setting with a teacher, while the other half focuses on self-paced online learning through the institute's platform. In the classroom sessions, you interact directly with the teacher and peers, practicing speaking and listening skills and receiving immediate feedback. The online self-study portion provides access to various learning materials, exercises, and resources. The format is designed to cater to individual learning needs, considering your progress, strengths, and areas for improvement. It spans 10 weeks with 4 sessions per week, lasting 3 hours each, summing up 16 teaching units of 45 minutes. This flexible schedule suits those with other commitments or a preference for a versatile learning environment. International German Language Certification Course Durations Table: German course durations International German Language Certification Course Duration (Week) Extensive Online Live (A1.1/A1.2) 10 Extensive Online Live (A2.1/A2.2) 10 Intensive Online Live/Hybrid A1 10 Intensive Online Live/Hybrid A2 10 Intensive Online Live B1 10 Intensive Online Live B2.1/B2.2 9 Exam Preparation (A1/B1) 1 Source: Goethe Institut Bangladesh These course details are subject to change and announced in the latest course brochure at the time of enrolment. So, for the most accurate and up-to-date details on the course offerings at the Goethe-Institut in Bangladesh, please visit their official website or contact them directly. Read more: How to Pick a College or University Abroad for Higher Education In a Nutshell So far, we have discussed how to get International German language certificates from Bangladesh. The courses and exams of the Goethe-Institut Bangladesh are tailored for different skill levels. The fees of the offered courses and certifications are available on the official website of Goethe-Institut Bangladesh. Learning German while staying in Bangladesh can ease the process of getting a German visa for higher studies, work visa, and other purposes. Let these processes prepare you to embark on the journey to your ultimate goal!

Five Chinese universities in Yunnan province have been teaching Bangla language and cultures to students that play a big role in promoting trade and business ties between China and Bangladesh. According to teachers at the Chinese universities, interest in learning Bangla language is growing day-by-day among students, and Chinese people in general. “Our students are really enjoying the Bangla language learning. We want more cooperation between Bangladesh and China in this academic field” said Prof Hu Jinming, vice president of Yunnan University, while meeting a group of Bangladeshi journalists who recently visited the university. Prof Hu, who has visited Bangladesh a number of times to enhance cooperation between the University of Dhaka and Yunnan University, informed that he is now working to establish cooperation with other public and private universities in Bangladesh. Read: Japan provides 500 million yen for 4th Primary Education Development Programme He believes learning Bangla by Chinese students will enhance communications between the two nations and understand each other’s' culture. Besides Yunnan University, the remaining other four universities in the province are Communication University, Peking University, Minzu University and Kunming University. In addition, the teachers said, there are three universities in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei Province, that also teach Bangla language and culture. Subarna Aktar, a Bangladeshi citizen who teaches Bangla in the School of Foreign Languages of Yunnan University,  said many Chinese students are getting interested to learn Bangla because of the expanding trade relations between the two countries. Read: Inadequate education budget hinders growth, students say; demand increase Echoing Subarna, Mishkat Sharif, another Bangladeshi teacher at the Bangla Department in Minzu University, said those who learn the language have better job opportunities with different companies who have been doing businesses in Bangladesh. "Some Chinese students after passing out of university are even setting up their own businesses and doing business with Bangladesh. It gives them an extra advantage to understand their customers' needs," Sharif added.  China has emerged as Bangladesh's biggest trade partner in recent years, with bilateral trade topping $27 billion in 2022, according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade. Of that total, China's exports exceeded $26 billion, while Bangladesh's exports to China amount to less than $1 billion. According to the teachers, Bangla Departments at the Chinese universities allow an intake of 20-25 students every other year to learn Bangla language and culture. Read more: Budget 2023-24: Govt allocates Tk88,162 crore in education sector, up 8.2% On the other hand, many Bangladeshi students are increasingly attending Chinese universities, especially in Yunnan, to study different subjects. Currently, there are 121 Bangladeshi students studying at Yunnan University, Ahmed Moin Uddin, a graduate of the School of International Chinese Language Education, told UNB. In the last 10 years, more than 1000 Bangladesh students graduated from Yunnan University, he added.

Mastering good English pronunciation is vital for better communication. It enables you to effectively convey your ideas and engage others better. Unfortunately, some underestimate the significance of pronunciation and believe it to be less important than other components of the English language. With better English pronunciation, one can gain confidence, enhance overall communication skills, and boost social abilities. 10 Tips for Improving Your English Pronunciation  To speak English fluently, developing a clear pronunciation is a must. However, pronunciation and accent are not the same. Pronunciation involves producing sounds, articulating words, and mastering intonation. Accent encompasses pronunciation, word usage, and grammar. Non-native speakers often have accents influenced by their native language's sounds. Pronunciation is a physical skill. Here are some tips to improve pronunciation.  Listen and Incorporate To improve your English pronunciation, start listening to native English speakers in real life or virtually. Pay attention to how they pronounce words and sentences. Then, practise repeating what you hear to develop a better understanding of the language's natural rhythm and intonation.  Read more: Duolingo English Test: Everything You Need to Know By imitating native speakers, you can train your mouth and ears to reproduce English sounds more accurately. This will help you communicate more effectively and with more confidence. Remember, practise makes perfect, so keep practising, and you will see improvements in your pronunciation. Focus on Individual Sounds Focus on specific sounds that you find difficult to enhance your English pronunciation. Identify the consonants, vowels, or combinations that challenge you. You can utilise online resources or language learning apps that offer exercises for each sound. Practise saying these sounds out loud, paying attention to how your mouth moves. Repeat them regularly to build muscle memory.  Also, concentrate on individual sounds and practise them consistently. Gradually, you will overcome pronunciation difficulties and speak English more clearly. Do not give up; keep practising, and surely you will see the results soon.  Read more: 10 Best Free Android Apps to Learn English Vocabulary Slow Down Take a moment to slow down and embrace the art of deliberate speech. Take a moment to slow down and give yourself the time to think through each word's pronunciation. By speaking at a more relaxed speed, you can ensure that you are articulating each sound correctly.  Deliberately pausing between words and phrases creates a space for conscious reflection. Take advantage of this time to mentally review the sounds and patterns, refining your pronunciation with each utterance. Enjoy the journey, savouring each step towards confident and accurate pronunciation. Use Pronunciation Guides Look for dictionaries, online tools, or resources that provide simple explanations and symbols to show how a specific word should be pronounced. You can learn from YouTube channels where tutors discuss pronunciation guides.  Read more: Everyday Habits to Learn English Successfully The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) symbols can help you understand the correct way to say the word. By using these guides, you can learn the right pronunciation for each word’s sound and confidently apply it to your speech.  Record and Compare Record yourself speaking using mobile apps or recorders. Then listen attentively, comparing it to recordings of fluent English speakers. Pay close attention to any discrepancies in pronunciation and identify areas for improvement. By pinpointing the gaps, you can work diligently to refine those specific areas of pronunciation.  Embrace this self-assessment process as a valuable tool for enhancing your pronunciation skills. With each comparison, you will gain a clearer understanding of the differences and take crucial steps towards bridging the gap between your current pronunciation and that of native speakers. Read more: Best Free Websites to Improve English Writing Skill

Italians who use English or other foreign words in official correspondence might face fines of up to EUR 100,000 (USD 108,705) under new law proposed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party. The legislation was introduced by Fabio Rampelli, a member of the lower chamber of deputies, and is backed by the Italian PM, reports CNN. Read More: Sparks fly as neutral pronoun included in French dictionary While the legislation applies to all foreign languages, it is aimed especifically against "Anglomania", or the usage of English phrases, which the draft argues "demeans" the Italian language, and is made worse because the UK is no longer a member of the EU, the report said. The bill, which was yet to be debated in the Italian parliament, requires anybody holding a public administration position to have “written and oral knowledge and mastery of the Italian language.” It also forbids the use of English in official paperwork, including "acronyms and names" of employment functions in domestic firms. According to a draft of the legislation, foreign firms would be required to have Italian language versions of all internal regulations and employment contracts. Read More: Int’l Mother Language Day: Discussion on multilingual education held at UN HQ The proposed law would create a body whose mandate would include “correct use of the Italian language and its pronunciation” in schools, media, commerce, and advertising, said the CNN report.

Speakers at a discussion recognized the potential role that multilingual education can play in transforming education for all. Speaking in their respective mother languages, they highlighted the critical importance of including native languages in the education system worldwide. The discussion was held on February 21, marking International Mother Language Day, at the UN headquarters for the 7th consecutive year. The Permanent Mission of Bangladesh, Denmark, Guatemala, Hungary, India, Morocco and Timor-Leste jointly organized the event in partnership with the UN Secretariat and UNESCO. The President of the 77th Session of the General Assembly Csaba Kőrösi attended the event as the chief guest. Like last year, the day was observed with interpretation services in all six official languages of the United Nations – enabling the distinguished speakers to deliver their remarks in their mother languages. The theme song of the International Mother Language Day (“Amar bhai-er rokte rangano”) was presented by the Sri Chinmoy Group. Read more: International Mother Language Day: Tribute from UN in Bangladesh in many languages The event featured musical performances from United Nations Chamber Music Society, Sneh Art of India and flute performance by Shilpakala Academy USA Inc. The event was telecast live on the U Web TV. Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the UN, Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith, paid homage to the language martyrs for upholding the dignity of Bangla in 1952, and to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for his organizing role in the Language Movement and leading subsequent national movements culminating to Bangladesh’s independence in 1971. He recalled with gratitude the role of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in securing UNESCO’s recognition of February 21 as the International Mother Language Day and also in establishing the International Mother Language Institute in Dhaka. Ambassador Muhith thanked UNESCO for choosing this year’s theme: “Multilingual education – a necessity to transform education”. Multilingual education inclusive of mother-tongue based learning can play an instrumental role in transforming the education system by underlining the importance of cultural and linguistic diversity, relevance of learning to learners’ lives and mutual understanding, he added. The Permanent Representative of Cuba in his capacity of the Chair of the Group of Friends on Spanish language and Chair of the NGO Committee on Languages also spoke at the event. The President of the General Assembly and all the other speakers thanked Bangladesh for its leadership in promoting multilingualism and mother languages at the UN.  Earlier in the morning the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh observed the Martyrs Day and the International Mother Language Day with due solemnity at the mission’s premises. The Permanent Representative and the mission officials laid wreaths at the Shaheed Minar established in the mission. During the event, the messages of the President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and State Minister for Foreign Affairs were delivered.

The great Language Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day was observed in a befitting manner in Seoul on Tuesday with the participation of the international community and expatriate Bangladeshi nationals living in the Republic of Korea. On this occasion, the Embassy in collaboration with the Korean National Commission for UNESCO (KNCU) organized a programme at the KNCU premises in Seoul. Senior officials from the Korean National Commission for UNESCO, Ambassadors and other diplomats from different embassies, members of civil society, members of different social and cultural organizations and the representatives of the leading print and electric media took part in the event. During the event, Bangladesh Ambassador Delwar Hossain delivered opening remarks and the Secretary General of the Korean National Commission for UNESCO Dr Kyung Koo Han delivered welcome remarks. Ambassador Delwar Hossain paid profound tribute to the language martyrs of 1952. Read more: International Mother Language Day: Tribute from UN in Bangladesh in many languages He also recalled with deep reverence the outstanding contribution of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in organizing the Language Movement in 1952 and subsequently steering the nation to independence in 1971. He highlighted the background of International Mother Language Day and the initiatives taken by the government of Bangladesh for the protection and promotion of mother languages and culture of minor ethnic communities in the country. The Secretary-General of KNCU Dr Han referred to the commonality in the history of the two countries’ struggle to preserve the dignity of their respective mother languages. He underscored the need for concerted international efforts in the promotion and protection of the mother languages and cultural heritages. The envoys of India, Indonesia and Sierra Leone and the President of the Joint Board of South and North Korea for the Compilation of Gyeoremal-keunsajeon delivered keynote speeches highlighting the initiatives of their respective governments in the promotion of multilingualism and multiculturalism. The keynote speech session was followed by a colourful cultural programme. The performers from Bangladesh, India, Korea and Colombia enthralled the audience through their performances portraying the rich linguistic & cultural heritage of their respective countries. Ambassador Delwar Hossain hoisted the national flag at half-mast at the Embassy premises with the presence of Embassy officials and the expatriate Bangladeshis. A one-minute silence was observed to honor the language martyrs followed by an offering of special prayer for the salvation of the departed souls of language martyrs and for the continued peace and prosperity of the country. Following this, the Embassy officers read out the messages of the President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and Hon’ble State Minister for Foreign Affairs. Then, a documentary on the great Language Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day was screened. Discussions were held on the historic background and significance of the day. Earlier, at the first hour of the day, Ambassador Delwar Hossain paid homage to the language martyrs by placing floral wreaths at Shaheed Minar established at the Multicultural Park in Ansan city.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday denounced attempts to undermine the contribution of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to the historic Language Movement. “Bangabandhu was jailed for waging the Language Movement. Why was he in jail (at that time) if he had no contribution?” she asked. The premier said this after conferring the "Ekushey Padak 2023" to 19 eminent personalities and two organizations in recognition of their contributions to the 1952 language movement, art, culture, journalism and journalism. She handed over the Ekushey Padak, the country’s second highest civilian award, at a ceremony at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka.  Hasina said the ‘Joy Bangla’ slogan, which inspired the freedom fighters to make their supreme sacrifice, and the historic 7th March speech were banned after the assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib in 1975.  “Actually his name was obliterated from history. Not only that, his contribution to the Language Movement was erased,” she said, adding that even some scholars said he had no contribution since he was in jail at that time. The PM said Bangabandhu was arrested on three occasions within months after the emergence of Pakistan as a country. Arrested in 1949, he was not released until February 27, 1952, she noted. While he was in jail, student leaders used to meet him and received his instructions regarding the Language Movement, she said adding that it can be learnt reading the books ‘Oshomapto Attojiboni’ (Unfinished Memories) of Bangabandhu and ‘Secret Documents of Intelligence Branch on Bangabandhu. Read more: Help us in relocating Rohingyas to Bhasanchar: PM Hasina urges UN The specific dates, names of student leaders who met Bangabandhu and his role during the Language Movement can largely be learnt from the 113-130 pages of the Volume-II of the secret documents book. The PM extended her sincere thanks to the awardees and noted personalities. The Cultural Affairs Ministry organised the event on the occasion of ‘Amar Ekushey’ and International Mother Language Day. Among the award recipients, Khaleda Manzoor-e Khuda, freedom fighter AKM Shamsul Haque (posthumous), and Haji Mohammad Majibor Rahman received the award for their roles in the Language Movement. Masud Ali Khan and Shimul Yusuf received the prestigious award for their contributions in acting, while Manoranjan Ghoshal, Gazi Abdul Hakim and Fazal-e-Khuda (posthumous) for music, Jayanto Chattopadhyay for recitation, Nawazish Ali Khan for Shilpakala (arts), and Kanak Chanpa Chakma for painting. Besides, Momtaz Uddin (posthumously) was given the award in the Liberation War category, Md Shah Alamgir (posthumously) in journalism, Dr Md Abdul Majid in research, Professor Dr Mazharul Islam (posthumously) in education, Saidul Haque in social service, Advocate Manjurul Islam (posthumously) and Akhter Uddin Mia (posthumously) in politics, and Dr Maniruzzaman in language and literature. Bangladesh National Museum received the award in the category of education and Bidyanondo Foundation in social service. Each awardee received a gold medal, a certificate of honour, and a cheque worth Tk four lakh. State Minister for Cultural Affairs KM Khalid chaired the award giving ceremony, while Cabinet Secretary Md. Mahbub Hossain conducted it and read out the citations of the award recipients. Cultural Affairs Secretary Md. Abul Monsur delivered the welcome address. The Ekushey Padak was introduced in the memory of the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) will pay homage to language martyrs and mark the month of language during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) matches Friday. All commentators and hosts will don specially designed attires with the Bengali alphabet imprinted on them tomorrow. They also will delve into the rich history and importance of International Mother Language Day during the matches, in both English and Bangla. This will be an exceptional moment for Bangladeshi fans, as the commentators will provide commentary in Bangla and non-Bengali commentators will also try to incorporate some Bangla words into their commentaries, said the BCB. Before the start of the matches, players will be interviewed in Bangla. English will be used only if a non-Bengali player is named the player of the match. The post-match presentations and interviews will also be conducted in Bangla to underscore the reverence for the mother tongue. All players, match officials, commentators, and hosts will don special armbands with the Bangla alphabet printed on them to express their support for the language. To enhance the celebration, a selection of words from the month of language will be showcased on the giant screen in the field. Bangladesh observes Amar Ekushey – the Language Martyrs Day (Shaheed Day) and the International Mother Language Day – on February 21 to mark the supreme sacrifice of the language heroes in 1952 for upholding the right to speak their mother tongue Bangla. The day is also observed around the world as UNESCO on November 17, 1999, recognised the Ekushey February as International Mother Language Day to celebrate the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity. Read more: PM opens Ekushey Book Fair 2023 in person for first time in 3 years