In September, educational programmes in simple Estonian on the topic of 500 years of Estonian books will begin, offering learners the opportunity to develop their Estonian language skills and strengthen their connection with Estonian culture and society. The programmes will take place in museums, where literature, history, and heritage are linked to hands-on activities and creative tasks.

You can participate in the joint educational programme of the Estonian National Museum and the University of Tartu Museum, as well as the educational programmes of the Estonian Health Museum, Harju County Museum, and Narva Museum. The educational programmes will take place between September 2025 and March 2026.

The total duration of the educational programme is 70 academic hours, spread over seven months. In total, the educational programme consists of 14 regular meetings twice a month on weekends, plus two days of cooperation with the local community. At each session, participants can actively practise listening, speaking, reading, and writing, using worksheets, creative tasks, and discussions written in simple Estonian. The aim of the programme is to offer participants a practical and participant-centred learning experience that can be applied in everyday life and increases their confidence in communicating in Estonian. Learners will receive worksheets and guidance materials that they can keep for future use.

The cooperation days with the local community give participants the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired in real-life situations. Direct contact and joint activities help learners acquire Estonian in a natural and meaningful way, linking it to everyday communication and cultural experiences.

All educational programmes are based on the guide of the Integration Foundation ‘Educational programmes in simple language for learners of Estonian’, authored by language specialist Helena Metslang. Thanks to this, the educational programmes are prepared and conducted using simple Estonian language principles to make complex topics more understandable to learners and to support the inclusion of people with limited Estonian language skills.

Sixteen to twenty adults (aged 18 and above) who are newly arrived immigrants, people from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds, returnees, and Estonian citizens can participate in the educational programmes.

You can register for educational programmes via the self-service portal of the Integration Foundation at https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/login.

‘Estonian literature at Narva Museum’, educational programme of the Narva Museum

The educational programme combines Estonian literature, history, and culture into an inspiring learning experience. The programme introduces literary works related to the past and present of Narva. Through exploring the collections and exhibitions of the museum, new connections between literature and heritage are discovered. The educational programme takes participants on a journey to the Kreenholm factories (Iron Hands by Eduard Vilde), to Narva Castle (Between Three Plagues by Jaan Kross), and to the poetic places in Narva-Jõesuu described by Igor Severyanin. Participants can also discover the poetry of The Last Relic by Eduard Bornhöhe and The Maiden of Narva by Lydia Koidula, solve mediaeval mysteries through Melchior’s stories, and participate in creative tasks, role-playing games, and dramatisations. In addition, two collaboration days will take place: ‘Tallinn Theatre Day’ – a meeting with a director and enjoying a production based on Estonian literature –, and ‘Tartu Literary Museum’ – a special programme for the Year of the Estonian Book: meetings with authors and reading texts in an inspiring environment.

All meetings support language development, encourage creativity and self-expression, and help to create a personal connection with Estonian literature and the cultural heritage of Narva.

‘A language journey through the history of Estonians and your healthy lifestyle’, educational programme of the Estonian Health Museum

The educational programme offers Estonian language learners the opportunity to develop their language skills in the areas of health and lifestyle, linking them to cultural and literary heritage. The programme covers topics related to healthy living in general, nutrition, exercise, sleep, relationships, and ageing, and finally links them all to the health history and personal experiences of Estonians.

Estonian literature is used extensively in the educational programme. For example, when discussing nutrition, Anna Rinaldo’s work From Sauna to Syringe: A Century of Stories about Estonians is examined. Additionally, participants will discuss the collection 1,111 Estonian Proverbs with Explanations and Comments. Discussions around sleep and its importance are linked to Kene Vernik’s book The Guidebook of Good Sleep and the interpretation of proverbs and fairy tales. When talking about relationships, we will focus on Merilin Mandel’s work Jess, inimesed! (Yay, People!) and, for ageing, the book and exhibition Farewell, Youth!. At the end of the course, medical developments and health behaviour over time will be examined, using the book 100 Years of Estonian Medicine.

Worksheets, role-playing games, and exploring the themed rooms of the museum play an important role in hands-on activities. For example, worksheets on exercise are completed, discussions are held on the plate rule and daily movement habits, simple dialogues and dramatisations are written, and literary texts are analysed. Homework assignments (e.g. recording grocery choices or keeping a sleep diary) help to connect what has been learned to everyday life.

The programme is taught in simple Estonian, but it is linked to both museum collections and literary texts. This allows participants to learn new vocabulary and expressions, develop their language skills, and understand how health and lifestyle have been part of Estonian cultural history.

‘From Diary to Book – The Stories of Ado Köögardal’, educational programme of the Harju County Museum

The educational programme focuses on the diaries of Ado Köögardal, a pastor in Keila, which provide insight into everyday life in Estonia at the beginning of the last century. Through these stories, participants learn new vocabulary, practise everyday expressions, and gain an understanding of how personal memories can become part of the Estonian literary heritage.

The study days are structured based on topics. The first meeting will introduce participants to Keila and Harju County Museum, and each participant will begin keeping a diary. Then, step by step, we will move on to the heritage of Köögardal and various aspects of Estonian culture: bread day and food traditions, the folk calendar and folk celebrations, Christmas customs, fairy tales and family stories, New Year’s resolutions, and the flow of information in the past and present. Each session involves practising listening, speaking, reading, and writing through workbooks, audio files, group work, and creative writing.

The programme also includes community days. The first meeting will take place at the Keila church manor, where participants will learn about the role of the church in community life. The second meeting will be held at the museum, where local craftspeople will help participants make simple items such as ornamental braids. Each activity is linked to specific vocabulary and offers participants the opportunity to practise the language in a natural context.

By the end of the programme, each participant will have completed their own mini-diary containing personal excerpts and experiences from the seven months of learning. At the final meeting, participants will share their diaries with the group, practising self-expression and public speaking. This connects language learning with real life, cultural memory, and literary tradition.

‘Language is a window to society’, educational programme of the Estonian National Museum and the University of Tartu Museum

The educational programme combines language learning with topics related to Estonian culture and the Year of the Estonian Book. The programme focuses on the theme of 500 years of Estonian books and aims to develop Estonian language skills, strengthen cultural belonging, and create meaningful connections between Estonian literature, history, and society.

The meetings will be held twice a month on weekends at the Estonian National Museum (2 Muuseumi Road) and at the branches and collections of the University of Tartu Museum (25 Lossi Street, 18 Ülikooli Street, 46 Vanemuise Street, Tartu Observatory). During the programme, learners will participate in 14 study days and two community days, which bring together learners and the local community.

The programme begins with an introductory meeting, where a ‘code of ethics’ for the course participants is created, the topic ‘Language is a window to society’ is discussed, and experiences in language learning are shared. Then, step by step, we will move on to different topics that introduce Estonia through literature, history, nature, and science. For example, at the meeting ‘Multicultural Tartu’, participants will explore the outdoor exhibition Tartu – Rendezvous of Cultures, where they will search for traces of their compatriots in Tartu and discuss issues of identity. The art programme ‘Looking into Perfection’ explores the work of Olev Subbi, while teaching vocabulary related to describing art and emotions. The literature-themed study day takes participants to Toomemägi Hill, where poetry and folk songs are used to discuss the poetic traditions associated with Tartu and Estonia.

Another important event is the programme ‘Do you know this story?’ of the Year of the Estonian Book, where participants dramatise text excerpts and create a play in small groups. The ‘Search for the Magic Book’ event at the University of Tartu Museum takes learners to a historical library environment, where they learn about Estonian literary heritage through legends and clues. The final part of the programme deals with the national epic Kalevipoeg and its connections with the epics of other nations.

Cooperation days broaden the learning experience. At the Palamuse O. Luts’ Parish School Museum and the National Costume Advisory Chamber, students will meet with community members, discuss their studies after watching the film Spring, and learn about folk costumes and folk dancing. At the University of Tartu Library, participants will explore the collections, work in groups to create a newspaper from the past, and discuss the role of journalism.

The educational programmes are funded by sub-activity 3.4.4.3 ‘Creation of educational programmes, including in simple Estonian, in cultural and sports institutions’ within the framework of project No. 2021-2027.4.07.23-0006 ‘Activities supporting Estonian language learning and civic education’ financed by the European Social Fund+.

Navaneeth arrived in Estonia 6 years ago to do his master's degree in Tallinn. His story is a perfect example of how tricky it can be to transition from one country to another and why the adaptation program Settle in Estonia is very useful. 

Thank you for joining us today! To start, could you please introduce yourself? 

First of all, thank you for having me. My name is Navaneeth, and I come from India. I’m a software engineer and have been living and working in Estonia for over five years now. 

Can you tell us how you ended up in Estonia? 

I moved here nearly six years ago, in September 2018, to pursue my bachelor's degree. I hadn’t completed my degree in India, where it’s quite stigmatized to work without one. I wanted to change that and looked for programs abroad. 

What led you to choose Estonia specifically? 

I didn’t initially have a plan for Estonia. A relocation company suggested it, claiming it was a unique opportunity, as they hadn’t sent anyone there before. After researching, I was impressed by Estonia's achievements post-Soviet Union and decided to apply for a cybersecurity course at Taltech. 

What challenges did you face when you arrived? 

I had to live in a college dorm and share a room, which was uncomfortable. Additionally, I quickly realized I needed to find a job to support myself while studying. I found work but didn’t enjoy it, so I switched to PipeDrive after a couple of months. 

It sounds like a significant transition. What happened with your studies at Taltech? 

Unfortunately, I was expelled from the university because I didn’t understand the academic requirements. In India, you can often fail subjects and complete them later, but that wasn’t the case here. 

That's a tough experience. How did you cope with being expelled? 

I was shocked at first and spoke to the dean to confirm my status. It was a hard lesson, but I shifted my focus to my job. 

You mentioned working at PipeDrive for four years. How did that experience shape you? 

It was a valuable experience. I learned a lot, but I was affected by a layoff that happened over a year ago. Now, I’m working elsewhere and I’m happy with my current job. 

I understand you've attempted to learn Estonian. Was it during your time at PipeDrive? 

I think I began taking my first course after starting at PipeDrive. The company offered language classes, which made it easier for me to balance work and study. 

That’s great to hear!  Can you tell us about your experience with the language? 

Yes, I tried learning the Estonian language, but unfortunately, I had to stop midway through my A2 course. I also have an Estonian partner from Saaremaa who helps me learn the language a bit. 

You mentioned taking both A1 and A2 courses. What were the differences between the two levels? 

The A1 course focused mainly on building basic vocabulary, while the A2 course introduced more grammar. However, in A2, the teacher didn’t use any English at all, which made it more challenging compared to A1, where translations were provided. 

It sounds like the teaching methodology aims to immerse students in the language. What do you think about that approach? 

I think it can be effective for some, but for adults, it might be more beneficial to introduce grammatical rules earlier. Many courses felt too similar to how children learn, which might not suit adults who already speak multiple languages. 

How do you feel about your current level of Estonian? Are you able to use it in daily life? 

I recently started studying again using textbooks from my previous courses, and I rely on my girlfriend for help. I’ve heard mixed stories from friends about learning Estonian—some recommend hiring a private tutor, while others have succeeded just using textbooks. 

Have you explored any online courses or apps for learning Estonian? 

I’ve considered trying some apps similar to Duolingo, but I find they mostly teach vocabulary without explaining grammar, which makes it hard for me to engage. 

What’s been the most surprising thing about learning Estonian for you so far? 

I was surprised by how different it is from English, even compared to other languages I’ve learned. The sounds, the structure, and especially the cases are quite unique. It’s been a challenge, but also rewarding when I grasp something new or manage to converse a bit in Estonian. 

Do you have any specific goals for your Estonian learning? For example, being able to have a conversation about a certain topic or maybe reading literature in Estonian? 

I’d love to reach a level where I can comfortably converse about daily life, maybe even delve into discussions about tech and innovation, since those are areas I’m passionate about. Reading a novel in Estonian would also be a wonderful goal, though I might need to start with simpler texts first! 

Do you feel that understanding Estonian culture is important for your integration process? 

Yes, I think it’s crucial. The language is a gateway to understanding cultural nuances, traditions, and societal values. Being able to participate in local festivities or comprehend cultural references in conversations would make me feel more connected to the community. 

That’s a thoughtful perspective. Is there anything specific about Estonian culture that you’ve found particularly interesting or different from your own? 

I find the emphasis on nature and the outdoors really refreshing. In Estonia, there’s a strong connection to nature—like the love for hiking and the beautiful national parks. It's quite different from the urban lifestyle I was accustomed to back in India. 

Nature does play a significant role in Estonian life! Have you had a chance to explore any of the national parks or natural areas since you’ve been here? 

Yes, I visited Lahemaa National Park a while back, and it was stunning! The forests, the coastline—it’s a completely different world compared to what I’m used to. I definitely want to explore more parks in the future. 

That’s wonderful! Nature has a way of creating memorable experiences. So, looking ahead, do you see yourself staying in Estonia long-term? 

I do. I appreciate the lifestyle here, the opportunities in the tech sector, and the quality of life. If I can continue improving my Estonian and becoming more integrated, I can see a future for myself in Estonia. 

That’s great to hear! It seems like you have a solid plan and a positive outlook. Is there any advice you’d like to share with other expats who might be facing similar challenges in learning the language and adapting to life in Estonia? 

I would say stay patient and open-minded. Learning a new language and adapting to a different culture takes time, and it's perfectly okay to make mistakes along the way. Engage with locals, participate in community events, and don’t shy away from using the language, even if you feel hesitant. 

I think newcomers should definitely focus on building a network. Making friends can be challenging, but it's crucial. Attend events, join clubs, or engage in community activities. That’s where you meet people who are also looking for connections. 

That’s great advice! What about practical aspects? Are there any specific tips you have regarding navigating daily life in Estonia? 

Absolutely! Familiarize yourself with local customs and services. For instance, understand how public transport works, where to get groceries, and how to access healthcare. It might seem overwhelming at first, but once you get the hang of it, things become easier. 

And what about the cultural aspects? How can newcomers better understand Estonian culture? 

I think it's important to immerse yourself in the culture. Try to attend local festivals, explore Estonian cuisine, and learn about the history. Watching local films or listening to Estonian music can also give you insights into the culture. 

That's a valuable perspective! Speaking of culture, have you picked up any favorite Estonian traditions or holidays? 

Yes, I really enjoy Jaanipäev (Midsummer's Day). The celebrations, with bonfires and gatherings, are a wonderful way to experience local culture and connect with people. It’s also a beautiful time of year with long days and a festive atmosphere. 

It sounds like a wonderful experience! Lastly, if someone were feeling overwhelmed, what would you say to encourage them? 

Navaneeth: I would remind them that it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed when adapting to a new country. Take it one step at a time. Celebrate small victories, like successfully ordering a coffee in Estonian or making a new friend. And don’t hesitate to reach out for help or advice—there’s a supportive community out there. 

Thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences today. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you! 

Thank you for having me! I hope my experiences can help others in their journey in Estonia. 

The Settle in Estonia Programme is a free educational programme provided by the Estonian state which is intended to help the foreigners who have arrived in Estonia to adapt and become accustomed to local life more easily. We offer courses for people who have come to live or study in Estonia and have lived here for less than 5 years. For example, war refugees to whom Estonia offers international or temporary protection, as well as people who have come to Estonia to work or do business here or relocate with their family member. The adaptation program The Settle in Estonia Programme is free for participants. We offer language training and other courses to help you cope with everyday life in Estonia. Read more and register: https://integratsioon.ee/en/kohanemine. The adaptation programme is co-funded by the European Union and the state budget.

The Integration Foundation is once again looking for proposals on who among Estonian people and organisations should be awarded for their activities promoting integration. Candidates for the integration awards can be submitted in four categories until 25 September 2025. 

This year, the Integration Foundation and the Ministry of Culture will be giving awards to people and organisations who promote integration for the 26th time.

‘Societies are strengthened by shared values and a sense of belonging, which arise through cooperation and mutual understanding. Integration awards are a recognition of people who help to enhance our shared values and sense of belonging,’ said Heidy Purga, Minister of Culture.

Dmitri Moskovtsev, Director of the Integration Foundation, invites people to submit candidates from different areas of life. ‘There are many people around us who contribute to successful integration through their actions and dedication. With the integration awards, we recognise both individuals and organisations who help to increase mutual understanding and cooperation in our society,’ said Moskovtsev.

We welcome proposals for candidates for integration awards in four categories:

> Building Blocks of Integration – raising awareness of the cultural diversity of Estonia and the targeted long-term activities to promote integration

> Bridgebuilder of the Year – implementation of cooperation projects aimed at residents whose first language is not Estonian

> Spark of the Year – outstanding activities of a person or organisation in the field of integration

> Messenger of the Year – shaping attitudes supporting integration through the media

Individuals or organisations from various fields of activity can be nominated for activities carried out between 1 September 2024 and 31 December 2025. There is no time limit for the Building Blocks of Integration Award and the Special Award for the Cultural Diversity Year. The competition is not open to self-nominations or nominations from candidates who have received an integration award in the last three years.

The best among all candidates will be selected by a panel of experts in the field. Each of the award winners will receive a €1,000 prize. Winners will be awarded by Minister of Culture Heidy Purga at a ceremony on 1 December 2025 in Tallinn. 

Proposals for the candidates for the Integration Awards can be submitted until 25 September 2025. The relevant form and other information can be found at this link. 

The winners of the integration awards of the last three years: 

> Building Blocks of Integration: 2024 – Aleksandr Dusman, 2023 – Pavel Ivanov, 2022 – Jelena Skulskaja and Marju Lauristin

> Bridgebuilder of the Year: 2024 – Hirvo Surva and the Estonian Music Council, 2023 – Maria Sakarias, 2022 – Helen Sildna

> Spark of the Year: 2024 – Alika Milova, 2023 – Kirill Badikin, 2022 – Ukrainian School of Tallinn Lilleküla Gymnasium

> Messenger of the Year: 2024 – The team of ETV+ Keeleveski programme, 2023 – Editorial team of Raadio 4, 2022 – The public relations department of the Estonian National Museum

In the autumn of 2025, support groups for independent Estonian language learning will start, offering learners assistance through the Keeleklikk.ee and Keeletee.ee online courses. From September 2025 to March 2026, support groups will be held in Tartu, Narva, and online.

The support groups create a structured and inspiring space for new Estonian learners – participants meet once a week with their tutor and share experiences with one another. Each group consists of 8–12 people who are guided by an experienced language teacher. There will be 26 meetings – held once a week, each lasting 3 academic hours. The total duration of one support group is 78 academic hours.

Language learning takes place both on the Keeleklikk.ee and Keeletee.ee online platforms, where participants study independently during the week, and in support group meetings, where they discuss the independently learned topics, engage in role-plays, and use other practical methods to encourage and reinforce language use. Participants receive regular feedback and support, as each group will have a social media channel (e.g. a Facebook group) created for them to facilitate communication and mutual encouragement outside the meetings. Adults from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, including newly arrived immigrants and returnees, are welcome to join the support group. Participation is open to anyone who wants to learn Estonian independently but needs consistent support and guidance.

It is possible to register for the support groups via the self-service of the Integration Foundation, which can be accessed by clicking on this link. In the self-service environment, select ‘Add services’ → ‘Support for independent language learning’ → ‘Location (Tartu, Narva, or online)’.

The support groups are organised by ALGUS OÜ as part of the ‘Supporting independent Estonian language learning in the keeleklikk.ee support group’ (296287) public procurement and by the Tartu Folk High School and ALGUS OÜ as part of the public procurement ‘Supporting independent Estonian language learning in the keeletee.ee support group’ (296685).

Registration:

Keeletee.ee 9 groups  (5 online, 2 in Narva, 2 in Tartu)

Keeletee.ee (B1) – Narva I 2025-2026 (Algus OÜ): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15612 

Keeletee.ee (B1) – Narva II 2025-2026 (Algus OÜ): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15613 

Keeletee.ee (B1) – Tartu I 2025-2026 (SA Tartu Rahvaülikool): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15623

Keeletee.ee (B1) – Tartu II 2025-2026 (SA Tartu Rahvaülikool): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15624

Keeletee.ee (B1) – Veeb 1 2025-2026 (SA Tartu Rahvaülikool): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15625 

Keeletee.ee (B1) – Veeb 2 2025-2026 (SA Tartu Rahvaülikool): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15627

Keeletee.ee (B1) – Veeb 3 2025-2026 (SA Tartu Rahvaülikool): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15628 

Keeletee.ee (B1) – Veeb 4 2025-2026 (SA Tartu Rahvaülikool): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15630 

Keeletee.ee (B1) – Veeb 5 2025-2026 (SA Tartu Rahvaülikool): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15632 

Keeleklikk.ee 9 groups (5 online, 2 in Narva, 2 in Tartu)

Keeleklikk.ee (A1-A2) - Veeb 1 2025-2026 (Algus OÜ): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15614

Keeleklikk.ee (A1-A2) – Veeb 2 2025-2026 (Algus OÜ): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15615 

Keeleklikk.ee (A1-A2) – Veeb 3 2025-2026 (Algus OÜ): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15616 

Keeleklikk.ee (A1-A2) – Veeb 4 2025-2026 (Algus OÜ): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15617 

Keeleklikk.ee (A1-A2) – Veeb 5 2025-2026 (Algus OÜ): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15618 

Keeleklikk.ee (A1-A2) – Narva I 2025-2026 (Algus OÜ): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15608 

Keeleklikk.ee (A1-A2) – Narva II 2025-2026 (Algus OÜ): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15609 

Keeleklikk.ee (A1-A2) – Tartu I 2025-2026 (Algus OÜ): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15610 

Keeleklikk.ee (A1-A2) – Tartu II 2025-2026 (Algus OÜ): https://iseteenindus.integratsioon.ee/service/view/15611 
 

The support groups are funded from sub-activity 3.4.4.1 ‘Development and provision of a language practice environment and support solutions for language learning’ of project No. 2021-2027.4.07.23-0006 ‘Activities supporting Estonian language learning and civic education’, funded by the European Social Fund+.