Seminar for Teachers of the Slovenian Language in Croatia (Rijeka, 10–12 October 2024)
The teaching of the Slovenian language in Croatia during the 2024/2025 academic year plays a crucial role in preserving the language and culture, as the number of Slovenians and Slovenian speakers is declining and intergenerational language transmission is weakening. Organized learning therefore represents one of the main mechanisms for preserving linguistic and cultural identity.
In Croatia, Slovenian is taught in three main formats: supplementary classes (DPS), Model C in elementary and secondary schools, and the Slovenian language learning project in Varaždin County. The number of students and participating institutions is gradually increasing, indicating a growing interest in learning the Slovenian language.
Regular seminars for teachers also constitute an important part of the system, facilitating professional development, the exchange of experiences, and networking among teachers and institutions. An evaluation of the seminar in 2024 indicates a high level of satisfaction and its usefulness for future work; at the same time, teachers highlight the need for even more practical content and interactive approaches.
The system for teaching the Slovenian language in Croatia is developing and yielding positive results, but it remains fragile and dependent on continuous institutional, organizational, and financial support, as well as the ongoing professional development of teachers.
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