Teaching the Slovenian Language and Culture in Varaždin County 2025

Analysis of the teaching of the Slovenian language and culture in Varaždin County confirms that this is a numerically small but culturally highly significant Slovenian community, whose linguistic vitality is threatened in the long term due to demographic trends. In such circumstances, organized instruction in the Slovenian language plays a key role in preserving and developing both the language and cultural identity.

The project of teaching Slovenian language and culture, which has been continuously implemented since the 2012/2013 school year, represents one of the key mechanisms for compensating for the weak intergenerational transmission of the language. The analysis of student enrollment trends shows the program’s sensitivity to organizational and staffing changes, while also confirming that appropriate measures—such as improved coordination and stable organization of teaching—can renew interest in learning Slovenian.

Data for 2025 indicate a gradual stabilization and renewed growth in the number of enrolled students, confirming the positive impact of the teacher’s continuous work, cooperation with primary schools, and the support of the local community. Cross-border activities, cultural events, and excursions are also of particular importance, as they significantly contribute to student motivation and strengthen their relationship with the language.

The project thus proves to be an effective yet at the same time vulnerable system that requires continuous institutional, organizational, and financial support. Its long-term success depends on coordinated action by all stakeholders, strengthened cooperation between Slovenian and Croatian institutions, and the active involvement of the Slovenian community in the local environment.