The 'International Mother Language Day' was observed here on Tuesday like other parts of the world with a resolve to continue efforts to promote local languages, as local languages can leave a positive impact on education as the medium of instructions at primary level.
It may be noted that 'International Mother Language Day' was announced by Unesco in November 1999 to encourage linguistic and cultural diversity. Since February 2000, this day is observed every year to remember the lovers of their mother tongues. Punjab Lok Rahs organised 'Punjab Folk Dance Festival' here at Alhamra Open Air, Bagh-e-Jinnah. In the festival, folk dances, Bhangra, Malwai Giddha, Ghoomer, Dharees, Luddi, Kikkli, Sammi, Dhammal and Julli were presented for the entertainment of participants.
Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz President Nawaz Sharif said that patronage of regional languages and local dialects played an important role in the promotion of national culture and civilisation. "Local languages can leave a positive impact on education as the medium of instructions at the primary level," he said in a statement on the day.
Nawaz said languages spoken in Pakistan lend beauty and diversity to the culture and there was need for their protection. He said arrangements should also be made for setting up special academies for the teaching of languages and dialects of other provinces.