The International Mother Language Day organized by the Bangladesh High Commission was held on Tuesday 21 February 2023 at the Independence Hall at 8.30 a.m. As in the past years Sri Lanka Scout Association participated as a partner in the event. The other partner organisations were the Ministry of Education and the United Nations Office.
Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena, Prime Minister was the Chief Guest. 100 Scouts gave a Guard of Honour to the Prime Minister.
The High Commissioner for Bangladesh, His Excellency Tariq Md. Ariful Islam delivered the Welcome Address and explained in details as to how the people of Bangladesh fought for their mother tongue Bangla language in 1952 which is now observed every year on 21 February and later declared by UN.
The State Minister for Higher Education Hon. Suren Ragavan addressed the gathering in English, Sinhala and Tamil and spoke on the importance of the mother language and also suggested that the Government should have a Sinhala Language Day and a Tamil Language Day on consecutive days.
An array of Cultural item presentations by various organisations depicting various languages delighted the gathering.
Hon. Ministers, High Commissioners, Ambassadors and distinguished invitees were present.
Certificates were awarded to students who won the competitions on literary activities conducted by the High Commission in conjunction with the Ministry of Education.