A new school year is starting. Teachers and professors have already started their preparations, students and students at least from today. Ahead of this school year, there is a lot of talk about the expansion of Estonian-language education in Estonian schools and kindergartens. This directly concerns you, teachers and students with a different home language, who are currently teaching and learning in Russian or partially in Russian.

The state is planning the transition to Estonian as the language of instruction precisely for the benefit of the students - so that when they finish school, everyone will know the state language to such an extent that they can continue their studies and later go to work. To be able to choose - opportunities for further education are definitely better with good Estonian language skills, as well as opportunities to choose an inspiring job for yourself in the future. Knowing the national language opens all doors in Estonia. We have a common country, a common society, although our mother tongues may be different. There is no reason for us to maintain two separate school systems in different languages. Let us have one Estonian school - with a high level everywhere.

To this end, the government undertakes to create opportunities so that learning in Estonian is possible in all schools from 2024 and in all classes from 2029/30. of the academic year. Preparations for this are already underway at the state and local government levels, as well as in many schools, especially those that have had language immersion classes. Of course, the school's level in all subjects is also under consideration. So that learning, i.e. acquiring knowledge, is inspiring and developing. Of course, also so that everyone can be who they want to be - in the future it will be possible to study Russian and now also Ukrainian in depth in Estonian schools and get to know the history and culture of our nation. The identity of one's people is important to everyone. We have a common national identity in Estonia.

Good teachers! Knowing the Estonian language, in addition to knowing the subject, also gives you the opportunity to continue in your favorite field, pedagogy. We will support you with trainings and counseling, if necessary, with learning the Estonian language - only together we can be strong and implement the changes that allow our children to be open, smart and ambitious.

I wish everyone connected with the school - school principals, teachers, support specialists and of course students and parents of students - a good start to the new school year!

Source: https://www.hm.ee/et/uudised/haridus-ja-teadusminister-tonis-lukase-poordumine-vene-oppekeelega-koolide-poole