EUt+ Language Pool marking UNESCO International Mother Language Day highlighting early successes in 2023

Published on February 19, 2023 – Updated on February 20, 2023

Dates

on the February 19, 2023

In recognition of UNESCO’s International Mother Language Day on 21st February, the EUt+ Language Pool can already reflect on a number of successful initiatives so far for 2023. Multilingualism and plurilingualism is strongly encouraged in EUt+.

Each of our eight partners have different languages spoken on their campus, reflecting our linguistic and cultural richness across Europe. It is really inspiring to hear colleagues and students speaking in multiple languages, and we try to encourage plurilingualim as broadly as we can. Parity of esteem in each language is important. The EUt+ Language pool was set up in late 2021 to drive EUt+'s ambitions on multilingualism. It has a multipronged strategy including language support on harmonised programmes, staff learning opportunities and research. The collaborative approach and hard work of the EUt+ Language Pool team is really gaining traction.

Learn more about International Mother Language Day

First EUt+ Language Conference

A first EUt+ Language Conference was hosted by the University of Applied Sciences Darmstadt (h_da) this year (23.01.2023 – 27.01.2023) themed on ‘Inter-/Multiculturalism in a Post-Colonial Era: Languages and European Values’. The conference included one day of workshops on the first day to share good practices and research ideas. President of h_da, Prof. Arnd Steinmetz formally opened the main conference on Tuesday 24^th where nine panel discussions were held across three days in both German and English covering 34 papers. In addition, 5 keynote speeches were given by Ruth Tobias (Free University Berlin), Nicola Erny (h_da), David Lasagabaster (University of the Basque Country), Elisabet Arnó (Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya) and Samantha Curle (University of Bath). The main organisers, Dr Tamara Onnis and Dr Stefanie Morgret, put in amazing work to ensure a very successful and family friendly event. Children and other family members were welcomed and could actively participate in the programme.

Access the wrap-up of the conference here

EUt+ Languages for Staff

Another highly innovative approach to supporting languages launched in 2023 is the ‘EUt+ Language for Staff’ initiative. The Language Pool are collaborating to provide language learning opportunities for staff on each of the languages of EUt+. Each course is delivered by local educators that can also bring a rich cultural aspect to language learning. The ‘EUt+ Language for Staff’ courses will be piloted between March and June 2023 and indications so far suggest strong interest from staff to join this initiative. Registrations are being accepted until 21^st February 2023 and staff interested should contact their local Language Pool representatives for more information.

Date of update 20 février 2023