Right to Learn in Mother Tongue: A Special Concern for Indigenous People of Bangladesh

Abstract

The “Right to Learn in Mother Tongue” is an essential component of educational and cultural rights, especially for indigenous groups. In Bangladesh, the formal education system is primarily conducted in the national language, Bangla. However, indigenous peoples frequently encounter substantial obstacles when attempting to receive education in their own languages. This study aims to explore the consequences of this problem in achieving education. In addition, this study examines the learning process through one’s native language, emphasizing a rights-based approach. The notion of Linguistic Human Rights (LHRs) has been explicitly articulated through both national and international legal systems. The study demonstrates that the universal recognition of Human Rights includes the right to receive education in one’s mother language, particularly for indigenous populations worldwide. This study employs a descriptive, thematic, and doctrinal legal research technique, utilizing an integrated literature review to focus on the right to education of indigenous people in Bangladesh, namely through the use of their mother tongue. This study is grounded in the philosophical approach of epistemological constructivism, which focuses on analyzing theoretical knowledge related to linguistic Human Rights. 

Mother Language, 2024; 8(1-2): 101-122