Language Development and Support Unit (LDSU) Staff, CUT Radio Station Yellow Morning presenters, Castle Bridge and Dr Viljoen Combined School educators and learners during the International Mother Tongue and World Read Aloud Day celebration.

The Language Development and Support Unit (LDSU), in partnership with CUT FM, marked International Mother Tongue Day alongside World Read Aloud Day, two global observances celebrated annually in February with a vibrant celebration of language and literacy.

Proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 1999, International Mother Tongue Day raises global awareness about the importance of mother tongue education, cultural diversity and multilingualism. This year marks the 26th anniversary of sustained efforts worldwide to preserve linguistic diversity and promote the use of indigenous languages.

The 2026 celebration focused on strengthening a culture of reading, deepening cultural identity and instilling pride in mother tongues. In line with CUT’s multilingual language policy, LDSU invited six Grade 4 learners, four from Castle Bridge School and two from Dr Viljoen Combined School to take centre stage. The learners confidently read aloud in Sesotho, English and Afrikaans, demonstrating the power of language in shaping young minds.

In his remarks, Dr Lehlohonolo Motake, Deputy Director: LDSU, emphasised the natural link between the two commemorations. “Literacy and language are deeply connected. When children read confidently, especially in the languages closest to their hearts, we strengthen education, cultural pride and social inclusion,” he stated.

Explaining the decision to merge the celebrations, Dr Motake noted that LDSU’s core mandate is to promote multilingualism, develop indigenous languages and advance literacy. “Bringing World Read Aloud Day and International Mother Tongue Day together was both natural and strategic. Literacy development is strong when children learn in a language they understand well. This celebration affirms the value of African languages in education, media and public life,” he added.

Grade four learners from local schools. From left: Molemo Nkala and Khalalelo Mokiba from Dr Viljoen Combined School, Likuwe Bhushula, Reneiloe Setilo, Tshenolo Kale, and Tshegofatso Thateng from Castle Bridge School. 

According to the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS), more than 80% of South African Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning. This sobering statistic informed LDSU’s decision to focus on Grade 4 learners as part of a community engagement initiative aimed at confronting this ongoing challenge. Grade 4 represents a pivotal point in a child’s academic journey; the critical transition from “learning to read” to “reading to learn.” Strengthening literacy at this stage lays the foundation for future academic success.

The involvement of CUT FM further amplified the impact of the celebration. Platforms such as the campus radio station have the power to reach communities far beyond the university, extending into townships and underserved areas where printed books may be scarce and internet access limited. Through the airwaves, messages about literacy and the value of mother tongue education travel wider and deeper, ensuring inclusivity.

In an increasingly interconnected world, the celebration served as a powerful reminder that every language matters. Each has a rightful place not only in classrooms and communities but also on the airwaves, shaping identity, preserving heritage and strengthening social cohesion.