university of Yaoundé hosts global mother tongue day celebrations

In a vibrant display of cultural unity, the University of Yaoundé served as the epicenter for the 2026 edition of International Mother Language Day, culminating a week-long national campaign across Cameroun dedicated to celebrating linguistic diversity and fostering multilingual education.

The festivities, held in Nanga Eboko, were orchestrated under the banner «Voices of youth for multilingual education», placing young people at the heart of efforts to promote and preserve mother tongues. These languages are recognized as fundamental pillars for learning and safeguarding cultural heritage.

key highlights from the ceremony

Honored guests included Cameroon’s Minister of Basic Education, Professor Laurent Serge Etoundi Ngoa, alongside regional leaders. Mr. Hilaire Mputu, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office for Central Africa, underscored the organization’s unwavering commitment to advancing multilingual education policies across Africa.

UNESCO advocates for mother tongue-based instruction, particularly in early education stages, as a critical driver for enhancing educational quality and student success. Through collaborative initiatives with member states, UNESCO champions the preservation of linguistic and cultural diversity—a cornerstone for sustainable development and intercultural dialogue.

International Mother Language Day, observed annually on February 21, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about the vital role of mother tongues in education, knowledge transmission, and social cohesion.

The event also featured captivating performances by primary school students, showcasing the rich tapestry of languages and cultures spanning Cameroun’s diverse regions. Through its participation, UNESCO reaffirmed its dedication to supporting member states in advancing multilingual education and safeguarding linguistic heritage, in alignment with the goals of International Mother Language Day.

The celebration in Nanga Eboko not only highlighted the importance of mother tongues in education but also reinforced their role as vessels of knowledge, memory, and social unity.

why mother tongue education matters

• enhances learning outcomes: Early education in a child’s mother tongue significantly improves comprehension and academic performance.
• preserves cultural identity: Languages carry traditions, histories, and values that define communities.
• fosters inclusivity: Multilingual education ensures no child is left behind due to language barriers.
• supports sustainable development: Linguistic diversity is linked to cultural resilience and sustainable development goals.