ELT Department Marks International Mother Language Day with Expert Discussions

The English Language Teaching Department at Tishk International University – Sulaimani successfully hosted an insightful international workshop titled “Kurdish as a Mother Tongue: Challenges, Policies, and Prospects” for International Mother Language Day on Tuesday, February 18, 2025. The workshop aimed to raise awareness of the importance of the mother tongue among students and the wider academic community.

Pivotal Discussions on Language and Identity

The workshop featured four key sessions led by distinguished experts:

  • Asst. Prof. Dr. Twana Hamid explored the common perception that one language variation is more prestigious than another, addressing misconceptions about linguistic variations.

  • Prof. Dr. Shelan Omer discussed principles of language policy and management by educational institutions, emphasizing the strong association of language with a nation’s identity.

  • Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sazzad Zahid provided a historical background of International Mother Language Day, highlighting the political and social struggles that led to its international recognition in Bangladesh.

  • Mr. Atta Ahmed focused on language policy in education, presenting the current status of the Kurdish language in educational institutions and discussing future prospects based on recent statistics.

The sessions provided a comprehensive understanding of the importance of the mother tongue from academic, historical, and political perspectives.

Commitment to Academic Enrichment

This successful event reflects the department’s commitment to providing a platform for critical discussions and promoting cultural awareness. The workshop provided students with a deeper appreciation for their mother tongue and its role in preserving national identity.

Keywords: Mother Language, Kurdish, International Mother Language Day, ELT Department, TIU Sulaimani, Language Policy, Linguistic Variations, National Identity, Language in Education, Academic Workshop