Coordination and Evaluation of Slovenian Language Learning in Croatia 2023

Organized Slovenian language instruction plays a crucial role in preserving the language and identity of the Slovenian community in Croatia, especially given that demographic data indicate a decline in the number of community members and Slovenian speakers. Results from 2023 indicate a positive impact of the reorganization of instruction, particularly the reduction of the number of teachers to one, which has contributed to better coordination, more effective communication with school principals, and closer cooperation with the Slovenian community. Consequently, following an initial decline in the number of students, an increase in enrollment was again observed, indicating greater stability of the program.

<\p style=”text-align: justify;”>Another significant achievement of the project is the expansion of instruction to more elementary schools and greater student engagement, with students choosing to learn the Slovenian language both for reasons of cultural identity and for practical reasons, such as proximity to Slovenia, educational and employment opportunities, and family ties. It is also worth highlighting the strengthened cooperation with organizations of the Slovenian community in Croatia, which is reflected in students’ participation in cultural events, competitions, and joint activities. Such forms of cooperation significantly contribute to greater student motivation and the strengthening of their relationship with the Slovenian language and culture.

Despite these positive trends, key challenges remain, such as the need for greater promotion of Slovenian language instruction, ensuring stable institutional support, and further improving the conditions for teaching. For long-term development, it will therefore be essential to ensure continued coordinated action by all stakeholders and systematic investment in the program’s development.

In conclusion, we can emphasize that the project represents an important mechanism for preserving the Slovenian language and culture in the border regions while simultaneously contributing to greater visibility and integration of the Slovenian community in the local environment. Its further development is keyučen za zagotavljanje trajnostne prisotnosti slovenskega jezika na tem območju.