The University of South Africa (Unisa) marked International Mother Tongue Day 2025 with a powerful message: South Africa’s linguistic diversity is more than cultural heritage – it is a tool for empowerment, growth and identity.
Seated are the signatories of the MoU between Unisa and the Puku Children's Literature Foundation: Chairperson Falaza Montsi, Unisa Vice Chancellor Prof Puleng LenkaBula, and Ilifa Chairperson Mabu Sithole. Standing as witnesses are Eleanor Sisulu, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, and Executive Dean of the College of Human Sciences Prof Mabatho Nkosi.
As part of the broader university-wide commemoration, the Unisa Library and Information Services (LIS) took part in the event by hosting a vibrant digital exhibition under the theme, “Language as an economic asset – unlocking growth through linguistic diversity.” The exhibition formed a key component of the celebration and served as a visual reminder of the role language plays in shaping opportunity and inclusion.
The event paid tribute to South Africa’s journey from a divided education system under apartheid to a more inclusive, multilingual framework. Prior to 1994, schools were governed by fragmented regional and homeland structures. Today, by policy, schools are expected to offer at least four official languages – a move designed to reflect and respect the country's diverse linguistic landscape.
Premier Panyaza Lesufi, who delivered a keynote address at the event, applauded Unisa’s commitment to linguistic transformation. Quoting poet Mzwakhe Mbuli’s words – “Sunrise must not get us where sunset left us” – Lesufi urged educational institutions to continue innovating and investing in language development as a means to economic participation. His address was preceded by Professor Puleng Lenka Bula’s address that embraced and recognised the dignitaries present at the event that include Professor Pinkie Phaahla (Former Head of African Languages, Unisa), Mr Lesley Musina (Social Commentator, Writer and Actor) and Mr Mabutho Sithole (Language Activist, Indigenous Language Initiative for Advancement). Elinor Sisulu (Founder of the Puku Children's Literature Foundation), Mara louw (Veteran singer, actress, and author).
The Unisa LIS’s digital exhibition was complemented by a panel discussion on the role of libraries in promoting mother-tongue literacy and cultural diversity. During the session, Prof Puleng Segalo posed a critical question: How can libraries move beyond preservation and actively promote indigenous languages?
Unisa Library staff and the digital exhibition
Prof Mpho Ngoepe, executive director of the Unisa Library, stressed that libraries must be more than repositories; they should act as living cultural institutions. He emphasised the importance of partnerships with the Puku Children’s Literature Foundation and Indigenous Languages for Advancement, organisations that support young writers and content creators working in indigenous languages.
“We must stop treating indigenous language publishing as an afterthought,” Prof Ngoepe said. “Instead of simply translating content from English, we should generate original stories and educational material in our own languages and make them digitally accessible for future generations.”
Beyond academic discourse, attendees noted the real-world impact of language diversity. In a multilingual province like Gauteng, knowing more than one language opens doors – from employment to entrepreneurship. Yet, challenges remain, especially in sectors like technology, media and publishing, where English still dominates.
Mabatho Nkosi, an aspiring author and student attendee, captured the spirit of the event: “I want to write books in Setswana because children deserve to see themselves in the stories they read. Language is not just how we speak – it’s how we belong”.
Unisa’s celebration of International Mother Tongue Day 2025 was not only a tribute to heritage but also a call to action. With LIS playing an active role through its digital exhibition, the event reinforced the fact that libraries, as hubs of learning and innovation, are critical to shaping a multilingual future.
By embracing the mother tongue as both a right and a resource, South Africa can continue building an inclusive society rooted in identity, expression and opportunity.
*By Dr Daniel Rankadi Mosako and Itumeleng Mpete, Unisa Library and Information Services
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