On the proud occasion of International Mother Language Day and Shaheed Dibash, we gather not just as the community of the Canadian University of Bangladesh, but as global citizens, to pay our respects and remember the brave souls who laid down their lives for the right to speak their mother tongue. February 21st stands as a pride of courage, sacrifice, and the unyielding power of linguistic and cultural identity.

As we commemorate this day, it is crucial to reflect on its significance that transcends national borders, emphasizing the importance of linguistic diversity and multilingual education. Language is the most direct expression of culture and identity. The martyrs of 1952 did not just fight for a language; they fought for a people's right to express their truest selves, to preserve their heritage and to insist on the dignity that comes from being heard and understood in one's own tongue.

The Canadian University of Bangladesh takes pride in upholding the values of diversity, inclusion, and the promotion of cultural and linguistic understanding. On this day, let us renew our commitment to these principles. Let us encourage dialogue and learning among the myriad cultures and languages that grace our campus and communities. Let us remember that every language learned is a bridge built towards understanding another culture, another way of seeing the world.

As we pay homage to the martyrs of the Language Movement, let our tribute not only be in remembrance but in action. Let us work towards a world where every language is valued, every voice heard, and every culture respected. Let us carry forward the legacy of those who fought for their mother tongue, by nurturing an environment where all languages, including our own, can flourish.

On this day of reflection and remembrance, let's dedicate ourselves to promoting linguistic diversity and cultural tolerance, thus honoring the memory of the language martyrs. Together, we can create a more inclusive, empathetic, and understanding world.

Sincerely,

Professor Dr Gias U Ahsan

Vice Chancellor (Incharge)

Canadian University of Bangladesh