Native Language Freedom Day 2026
On the occasion of Lithuania’s Press Restoration, Language and Book Day, the Lithuanian Section of EEB2 welcomed two distinguished linguists from Lithuania: Vilma Zubaitienė, a lecturer at Vilnius University and Chair of the Lithuanian Language Society, and Rita Urnėžiūtė, editor of the journal Native Language.
They delivered engaging lessons for both Primary and Secondary students, bringing the Lithuanian language to life in a contemporary and inspiring way.
This visit forms part of the joint project Living Lithuanian Language: History, People, Future, developed in cooperation with the Society for the Lithuanian Language. The initiative aims to strengthen students’ connection with their native language and deepen their understanding of its development and present-day relevance. The visit also highlighted important Lithuanian cultural anniversaries in 2026.
Secondary students were introduced to prominent Lithuanian linguists, key linguistic research, and major grammatical works and dictionaries, while younger pupils explored language through interactive discussions on place names, personal names, and neologisms. The sessions also addressed contemporary topics such as youth language and the influence of digital communication and artificial intelligence.
Students were encouraged to participate in creative language initiatives, including the annual competition Stories about Language, organised in collaboration with the Institute of Lithuanian Literature and Folklore. Each year, students from the school take part, with selected works published in cultural outlets.
The project has begun in a meaningful and celebratory spirit and will continue throughout the year, fostering appreciation of and pride in the Lithuanian language.
