Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has asserted that the 1952 Language Movement, though sparked by the need to safeguard the status of Bengali, was fundamentally a struggle for autonomy and liberation in political, economic, and cultural spheres.
Speaking at the International Mother Language Institute on Friday (21 February) during the International Mother Language Award ceremony, he emphasised the movement’s far-reaching significance in shaping the nation’s identity and democratic ethos.
"The importance of the Language Movement in our liberation struggle is immeasurable. It laid the foundation for a secular, democratic, and language-based national identity," he stated.
Highlighting the intersection of technology and linguistic prominence, he remarked, "We are rapidly forging a new world where technology plays a pivotal role. The dominance of a language follows the ascendancy of a nation in technological innovation. A country that leads in technology will naturally see its language gain global attention."
Beyond technological prowess, he noted that leadership in any sphere could propel a nation's influence, attracting organic interest from the global community.
Bangladesh, he further pointed out, played a pivotal role in securing UNESCO’s recognition of 21 February as International Mother Language Day, a testament to its historical significance and contribution to linguistic heritage.
During the ceremony, award winners were presented with a gold medal, a certificate of honour, and prize money.
