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.
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01.06.2026The Ukrainian Centre in Pärnu Expands Its Activities and Launches New Initiatives
Read moreIn 2026, MTÜ Ukraina Keskus continues to grow, creating new opportunities for the Ukrainian community and for everyone in Estonia who supports Ukraine.
Today, the Ukrainian Centre is a welcoming community space where people of all ages can find activities that match their interests, receive support, make new connections, and become part of an active and vibrant community.
During the first half of 2026 alone, the Centre organised dozens of cultural, educational, creative, and wellbeing activities, bringing together children, young people, adults, and representatives of Ukrainian communities from different regions of Estonia. Our work demonstrates that the Ukrainian Centre in Pärnu is much more than a meeting place—it is an important hub for integration, mutual support, community building, and the preservation of Ukrainian identity.
Throughout the year, the Centre has been offering:
🇺🇦 Ukrainian Club for children and adults;
🎨 Handicraft Club;
💙 Women's Circle – a space for mutual support, trust, and inspiration;
🇬🇧 English Language and Culture Club;
🧠 Mental health and psychosocial support activities led by Ukrainian psychologists;
🤝 Meetings of Ukrainian community organisations from different regions of Estonia;
🎭 Creative, cultural, and educational events for children and adults.
This summer, we were delighted to launch two new creative initiatives:
🎶 a Children's Ukrainian Song Ensemble, helping young participants preserve the Ukrainian language and cultural traditions;
🎵 "Spivoche Kolo" Adult Choir, bringing together people of different ages who share a love for Ukrainian music and enjoy singing together.
We are sincerely grateful to every participant who joins our activities. It is through these meetings and shared experiences that a strong, active, and united Ukrainian community continues to grow in Pärnu.
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Integration Foundation (Integratsiooni Sihtasutus) and the City of Pärnu for supporting our cultural, educational, and integration initiatives. Thanks to their support, we are able to develop new programmes, create a safe and welcoming environment for children and adults, and implement initiatives that help Ukrainians integrate into Estonian society while preserving their language, culture, and identity.
📱 To learn more about our activities, upcoming events, and community life, follow us on Facebook:
MTÜ Ukraina Keskus Pärnu https://www.facebook.com/ukaina.keskus.pyarnu
04.04.2026Stronger Together
Read moreWe are pleased to announce the launch of the project "Stronger Together / Koos Tugevam", implemented by NGO Ukrainian Center (MTÜ Ukraina Keskus) in cooperation with partners NGO Ukrainian Women's Union in Estonia and NGO Ukrainians in Haapsalu during the period 21 March 2026 – 28 February 2027.
The project is implemented within the framework of the GrassRoots programme (VEICAM / "Together towards solutions") and is co-funded by the European Union.
The aim of the project is to support Ukrainian women and families in Estonia, raise awareness of their rights and available services, and prevent gender-based violence.
The project will include a range of activities such as information campaigns, training programmes, and psychosocial support.
**The total amount of funding awarded to the project is EUR 60,000. ** Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
