NSU Marks International Mother Language Day. North South University (NSU) observed International Mother Language Day on 21 February by paying tribute to the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement with deep respect and solemn remembrance.
North South University (NSU) observes National Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day 2026 with due solemnity and respect. Wreaths were placed at the Central Shaheed Minar and at the Shaheed Minar on the NSU campus to honour the language martyrs. A discussion session was also held at the university’s AUDI801 auditorium.
The program was graced by Mr. Aziz Al Kaiser, Chairman of the NSU Board of Trustees, as the Chief Guest. The Special Guest was Mr. Benajir Ahmed, Founder Life Member and Former Chairman of the Board of Trustees of NSU. Dr. Salimullah Khan, Professor of the Department of History and Philosophy at NSU, joined the event as the keynote speaker. The session was chaired by Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice Chancellor, NSU. Professor Nasar U Ahmed, Pro Vice-Chancellor of NSU; Professor Abdur Rob Khan, Treasurer of NSU; deans of four schools; faculty members; administrative heads, officials; and students were also present at the program.
The program began with the recitation from the Holy Quran, a rendition of the national anthem, and a one-minute silence in memory of the language martyrs. In his welcome address, Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Nesar Uddin Ahmed recited a self-composed poem on the significance of Bangla as our mother language.
In his keynote speech, Dr. Salimullah Khan discussed the history and legacy of the Bangla language. He said, “Language is not just a tool for acquiring knowledge. It is more than a medium of learning and communication; it is a profound marker of our identity. While we should embrace the study of other languages alongside Bangla, it must never come at the cost of our mother tongue.”
Special Guest Mr. Benajir Ahmed said, “February 21 marked the beginning of a new chapter in our national life. In honour of the sacrifices made during our Language Movement, UNESCO declared this day as International Mother Language Day. We hope that the new generation will continue to uphold the dignity and spirit of the Bangla language.”
Chief Guest Mr. Aziz Al Kaysar said, “Language requires practice. To establish Bangla on the global stage, we must strengthen regular language practice, research, and creative work. Everyone must remain conscious about the proper use and preservation of our mother tongue.”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury said, “There is no room to undermine the importance of our mother tongue. Language unites us; it does not divide us. Many nations have reached the pinnacle of progress through education and research in their own languages. To move forward as a nation, we must further enrich education, research, and creative activities in Bangla.”
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by NSU Treasurer Professor Abdur Rob Khan.
International Mother Language Day, recognized by UNESCO, reminds people around the world of the importance of protecting and promoting mother languages. Through these activities, North South University reaffirmed its respect for the language martyrs and its dedication to safeguarding the cultural and historical legacy of the Language Movement.