Humanistic Values of Indigenous Languages in Bangladesh

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to know the humanistic value that is given to indigenous languages in Bangladesh. This study is based on selected case studies, data from in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and systematic reviews of relevant literature. The study indicates that in a way the primary, secondary level education is designed focused on fully Bengali and part of it in the English Language. Children soon lose interest in the classroom and drop out when they cannot communicate. The teachers are also from the Bengali community, and fewer than 8% complete primary education while 2% complete secondary education. Besides the dropout, late enrolment, repetition, poor academic grade, for these maximum indigenous students cannot pass the minimum marks for enrolment for higher education and civil service jobs. Besides, many indigenous languages are disappearing but no plan to protect them.