Ukrainian Center Attended the Presentation of the Book "Lihtne eesti keel" by Helena Metslang
On March 13, 2025, representatives of the Ukrainian Center in Pärnu attended the presentation of the book Lihtne eesti keel by Helena Metslang. The event, dedicated to the concept of "simplified Estonian language," took place in a welcoming atmosphere and attracted a diverse audience, including linguists, educators, students, and anyone interested in learning Estonian as a foreign language.
Key Topics of the Presentation
The author, Helena Metslang, provided a detailed explanation of why standard language programs designed for native speakers can be challenging for foreign learners. She emphasized the importance of using "simplified language" (lihtne keel), which enhances comprehension and accelerates the acquisition of new vocabulary and grammar.
During the presentation, the following topics were discussed:
- The experiences of foreigners learning Estonian and the main challenges they face;
- The fundamental principles of "simplified language" and its scientific justification;
- Practical methods for adapting educational programs for language students;
- The use of technology and artificial intelligence for automatic text simplification.
Why Is Lihtne eesti keel Important?
One of the central ideas of the event was that complex language can slow down the learning process, create cognitive overload, and decrease students' motivation. For this reason, the author proposes a methodology for adapting texts and educational materials to make them more accessible without losing essential meaning.
Significant attention was also given to the integrative function of "simplified language"—it not only benefits foreign students but also supports individuals with special needs who may struggle with understanding complex texts. This approach fosters greater social inclusion and improves access to information.
The Ukrainian Center in Pärnu expresses gratitude to the event organizers and highlights the importance of such initiatives for those learning Estonian. We firmly believe that the knowledge gained will be beneficial for Ukrainian-speaking residents integrating into Estonian society and striving to master the local language more effectively.
We are already exploring the possibility of incorporating "simplified language" principles into our own language courses and adapting educational materials based on Helena Metslang’s methodology.
Conclusion
The presentation of the book Lihtne eesti keel was a significant event for everyone involved in language education and integration. The methodology of language simplification not only facilitates learning but also fosters a deeper understanding of Estonia’s culture and society. The Ukrainian Center in Pärnu highly values Helena Metslang’s contribution to language education and looks forward to further research and the implementation of similar approaches in practice.
Another news
13.02.2026MTÜ Ukraina Keskus has been selected to participate in the international RIZA project.
Read moreThe RIZA project is a large-scale initiative supported by the European Union, aimed at strengthening the capacity of civil society organisations working with migrant and refugee women across Europe. The project focuses on: • strengthening the capacity of local organisations working with women of migrant background through financial support and tailored development tools; • supporting the promotion and protection of the rights of migrant and refugee women, including access to fundamental rights, participation in democratic processes, and ensuring equal opportunities; • building a cooperation network among organisations from different EU countries working in similar fields, fostering exchange of experience and joint initiatives; • supporting the voice and leadership of women of migrant background in public dialogue and democratic processes.
The project manager of MTÜ Ukraina Keskus has already attended the first two-day training in Brussels within the framework of the RIZA programme, organised by Migrantwomennetwork in partnership with Melissa Network and Pangea. Key topics of the training included: • capacity building of civil society organisations; • European Union values and fundamental human rights in the migration context; • different forms of gender-based violence and response mechanisms.
An online learning programme was also presented, which representatives of participating organisations will complete over the course of the year within the RIZA project. This marked an important step in establishing effective cooperation with international colleagues and project organisers. We sincerely thank the RIZA project team and partners from different countries for the opportunity to contribute to this important European process.
08.12.2025Ukrainian Center selected as one of five Estonian organisations for the international MARIO 2025 project
Read moreLast year, MTÜ Ukraina Keskus was selected as one of five organisations in Estonia working with national minorities to participate in the international MARIO 2025 project. This is a great honour for us, as we are the youngest organisation among all 30 participants from six European countries included in the MARIO 2025 programme. 🇺🇦 Over four days in Brussels, during the MARIO Brussels Exchange & Advocacy Meetings 2025, we represented the Ukrainian community of Estonia at meetings with representatives of key European institutions. 👩💻 Together with colleagues from six countries, we met, learned, and exchanged experiences with representatives of the European Commission, the Council of Europe, the European Parliament, and leading human rights initiatives. It was a great honour to meet and listen to such influential speakers as: 🔹 Pascale Biver – Task Manager, EACEA (European Education and Culture Executive Agency), an executive agency of the European Commission managing EU grant programmes in the fields of education, culture, youth, media, and civil society (including Erasmus+, Creative Europe, and CERV); 🔹 Tanja Florath – Policy Officer, DG JUST, coordinating EU anti-racism policy; 🔹 Jelena Jovanovic – Coordinator of the Anti-Racism and Diversity Intergroup of the European Parliament, shaping the political agenda on equality; 🔹 Neil Clarke – Head of Legal Programmes and EU Advocacy (MRG), who delivered a powerful training on advocacy strategies for minority rights; 🔹 Lucia Demeny – European Women's Lobby, who spoke about the role of women leaders in building an inclusive society. This exchange in Brussels was an invaluable experience — offering networking opportunities and knowledge exchange with leaders and communities shaping modern Europe: equal, diverse, and united in solidarity 🤝🇪🇺. We sincerely thank MRGgroup for the opportunity and the excellent organisation of all events! 🙌
25.08.2025Official Registration of the Ukrainian Folk Hobby School in Pärnu — Pärnu Ukraina Rahva Kool
Read more25.08.2025 — a symbolic and meaningful date marking the birth of a new educational center for the Ukrainian community.
We sincerely thank everyone who helped make this dream come true.
Special gratitude goes to Pärnu linn, as well as Helena Viks, Agnes Sirg, Meeli Waf, Reeli Jantson, and the inspector from the Ministry of Education Triin Hüva, who patiently guided us through all the checks, consultations, and document exchanges.This was a long but very important journey, and now we have reached the main goal:
Ukrainian children in Pärnu will have their own space for development. Here they will be able to:- preserve their native language and culture,
- study and socialize after school,
- integrate successfully into Estonian society.
At the same time, the school will also become a cultural bridge, allowing Estonians to get to know Ukrainian traditions more closely.
📌 Pre-registration for hobby groups is now open!
Fill in the form 👉 forms.gle/8unKJb4vnLxDhJmd7
or write to us: purkparnuukrainarahvuskool@gmail.comOpen free classes will begin in September. We invite everyone to join! 🎨🎶📚
💙💛
Sincerely,
Head of Pärnu Ukrainian Folk School — Viktoria Kuzmenko