International Mother Language Day celebrates linguistic diversity and reaffirms the right of all learners to receive education in their mother language. It highlights the essential role that languages play in education, inclusion and sustainable development.
The Kawthoolei education system demonstrates that mother-tongue-based education is not only a culture right, but also a practical and effective strategy for achieving inclusive, quality education aligned with UNESCO’s vision and SDG 4 commitments.
Call to Action
Sustaining and expanding mother-tongue-based education requires collective commitment and partnership. By supporting community-led education system such as Kawthoolei, stakeholders contribute to improved learning outcomes, reduced educational inequalities, and the preservation of linguistics and culture diversity in Myanmar.
Key Advocacy Message
Invest in ethnic and community-led education systems, including the Kawthoolei education system, recognizing their critical role in delivering equitable education in conflict-affected and hard-to-reach contexts.
Invest in teachers and teaching quality, through sustained support for teacher training, professional development, and culturally responsive pedagogy grounded in mother languages.
Remove linguistic barriers to learning, particularly for children in conflict-affected, displaced, and marginalized communities, to ensure meaningful access to education.
Protect and promote linguistic and cultural diversity, recognizing language as a driver of identity, social cohesion, and sustainable development.
Take action:
Learn more about mother-tongue-based education
Support mother-language teaching and teacher development
Partner with Kawthoolei education initiatives
