Safeguarding Colombia’s Linguistic heritage: A National Imperative

Beyond the festivity of Spanish, Colombia recognizes the urgent need to protect its endangered linguistic heritage. With 68 native languages spoken across the nation – 65 from Indigenous communities, two from Afro-Colombian populations, and one Romani language – the Ministry of National Education is championing initiatives to preserve these vital expressions of identity, memory, and cultural resilience.

The preservation of these languages is not merely a cultural endeavor; it’s a matter of safeguarding unique worldviews.As UNESCO emphasizes, languages are the most decisive factor for their survival. Each disappearing language represents an irreplaceable loss of knowledge and outlook.

The Crisis of Language Loss: A Stark Reality

Currently, only half of Colombia’s 115 Indigenous peoples actively maintain their ancestral languages. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for intervention. The Ministry of education is responding with a transformative model that embraces diversity as a cornerstone of quality education and cultural relevance.

This initiative aligns with global trends. according to the United Nations, at least 40% of the 7,000 languages spoken worldwide are endangered. UNESCO is actively involved in promoting multilingual education and supporting language revitalization efforts globally.

Classroom Conversion: Concrete Steps Towards Preservation

The “Multilingual Classrooms” programme is at the forefront of this effort, fostering an habitat were languages like Wayuunaiki, Nasa Yuwe, and Sikuani thrive alongside Spanish. This approach has demonstrably improved school retention rates, enhanced learning outcomes, and strengthened cultural identities among students.

Over the past two years, the Ministry of Education has trained over 500 bilingual teachers, many of whom are members of the communities whose languages they teach. Moreover, the Ministry has developed educational resources in native languages, ranging from early childhood learning materials to digital content. This extensive strategy reflects a deep pedagogical and political commitment to linguistic diversity.

Collaborative Efforts: A United Front for Language Survival

In collaboration with the Ministry of Cultures and in accordance with Law 1381 of 2010, linguistic laboratories have been established across Colombia. These spaces bring together elders, linguists, and educators to ensure the intergenerational transmission of languages.

Together, the Ministry has been working in close consultation with Indigenous communities to strengthen the Indigenous Education System (SEIP). This system recognizes language as a essential element of “the tissue of wisdom for life,” alongside spirituality, ancestral laws, rights, environmental stewardship, culture, and autonomy.

A Vision for Equity and Recognition

The education system cannot continue to be a space for cultural homogenization. Quality also means relevance. And there is no equity without full recognition of our linguistic diversity.
Daniel Rojas Medellín, Minister of Education

This year’s Language Day serves as a call to action, urging schools to evolve into inclusive spaces where all forms of knowledge and expression are valued. The goal is to create an environment where Spanish coexists harmoniously with Raizal Creole, Palenquero, Romani, and the 65 Indigenous languages of Colombia. Each language offers a unique lens through which to understand the richness and complexity of the nation.