It takes time for differences in use of Latvian language to disappear between schools - Melbarde

RIGA - It will take some time for differences in the use of the Latvian language to disappear between schools after the transition to education only in the state language, Education and Science Minister Dace Melbarde (New Unity) said in an interview with TV3 channel on Wednesday.

This is the last year of the transition to Latvian in all schools. It will take time to change language habits and attitudes in schools before it can be say with assurance that the differences between schools can no longer be felt, the minister said.

The education minister is convinced that it is important to bring more teachers whose mother tongue is Latvian into the school environment. She noted that in schools where most students do not have Latvian as their mother tongue, the situation is difficult and one can still hear various stories "which could be called discrimination against the Latvian language in informal moments".

"This has to be fought, there is a service that is entrusted with controlling this situation," the minister added.

As reported, this school year, the transition to teaching only in Latvian will be completed in Latvian educational institutions implementing the national minority primary education program. From September 1, the 4th and 7th grades, which were previously taught in minority languages, will start learning in Latvian.