Is Swedish Still Taught in Finnish Schools?

Yes, Swedish is still taught in Finnish schools. Finnish is ideologically structured as a bilingual nation with both Finnish and Swedish being official languages. This bilingual system is deeply embedded in the Finnish education system, ensuring that students in Finland have the opportunity to learn and use both languages.

Role of Swedish in Finnish Education

Swedish plays a significant role in the Finnish education system. In Finland, students are required to study both Finnish and Swedish, especially in regions with significant Swedish-speaking populations. The emphasis on studying Swedish can vary depending on the region, but it remains an integral part of the educational curriculum in Finland.

A considerable portion of Finnish nationals—bigger than the Sami ethnicities combined—has Swedish as their native language. As a result, native Swedish speakers are required to learn Finnish, and native Finnish speakers are required to learn Swedish. This approach aims to maintain a balanced understanding and appreciation of both languages within the Finnish society.

Swedish as an Official Language

Swedish is not just a language for learning but also one of the two official languages of Finland, alongside Finnish. This status means that Swedish is recognized and used in governmental, legal, and educational contexts, making it a mandatory subject in schools.

Swedish in School Curriculum

Education on Swedish is compulsory for students in Finnish-speaking areas. The curriculum for learning Swedish is designed to develop the language skills of students, who are expected to have at least basic proficiency in both languages. Swedish is particularly required in areas with a significant Swedish-speaking population, such as the coastal areas of Finland.

For instance, in the municipalities of ?land Islands, the southwest coast, and rural areas around Vaasa, Swedish is the primary or co-primary language of instruction. However, in areas where Swedish is the sole official language, the curriculum may focus solely on Swedish.

Swedish at Universities

Beyond the school level, Swedish is also a prerequisite at Finnish universities. Obtaining a diploma from a Finnish university typically requires passing a Swedish language proficiency test. Universities and institutions like H?gskolan Dalarna (H?gskolan Dalarna) offer programs entirely in Swedish, while others incorporate Swedish into their curriculum. Some universities, such as the University of Helsinki, offer a variety of programs in both Swedish and Finnish.

Swedish Language Schools

In addition to compulsory education, there are numerous opportunities for individuals to enhance their Swedish language skills. Language schools and courses for adults and children provide further opportunities to learn and improve in Swedish. Like in the United States, where you can find courses in dozens of different languages, Finland offers similar options for those interested in learning Swedish.

Conclusion

The practice of teaching Swedish in Finnish schools remains strong despite some opposition. The bilingual nature of Finland is deeply rooted in its language policies, and both Finnish and Swedish continue to be integral parts of the curriculum. Whether it is for basic proficiency in school or advanced skills at the university level, Swedish remains a fundamental language in Finland’s educational landscape.

For anyone seeking to learn more or understand the nuances of this bilingual system, understanding the official and educational roles of Swedish in Finland is key.

Keywords: Swedish in Finland, Finnish School Curriculum, Official Language