An international celebration of cultural diversity will take place at the Magee campus of the University of Ulster this weekend to mark UNESCO’s International Mother Language Day.

The event on Saturday (19 February) will bring together Urdu and Basque speakers who will share insights into the culture and language of their native lands. There will also be contributions from Irish and Ulster-Scots linguists.

The Royal National Institute of the Blind and the Royal National Institute of the Deaf will outline the importance of Braille and sign languages for those with hearing and visual disabilities – a core part of this year’s celebrations.

There will also be a significant contribution from the performing arts as practiced around the world. Scottish dancers and pipers will share a stage with German folk singers and students from the Model school will display their artwork.

During the day there will be an exhibition of photographs on the history of Mother Language Day and visitors will also be given an insight into the ancient Japanese art of origami.

UNESCO International Mother Language Day is designed to give people around the world an opportunity to display the uniqueness and diversity of their culture and language. Events will be held around the world to promote understanding, tolerance and dialogue between different nations.

The event will be held in the Great Hall from 1-6pm and admission is open to everyone and is free.

For further information, please contact:

Press Office, Department of Communication and Development
Tel: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk