Teachers involved in language instruction for conscripts in the Estonian defense forces have reported significant challenges arising from the fact that language education is not a primary responsibility of the military. With new regulations set to come into effect next year requiring conscripts to achieve a B-1 level in Estonian, instructors are expressing concern about the inadequacies of current language support. They are advocating for intensive language courses for those with weaker language skills as a necessary corrective action.

One instructor, Anu Kihulane, emphasized the disconnect between her and the conscripts, citing difficulties in receiving information about their schedules which complicates lesson planning. When conscripts are engaged in military exercises or training, the educators often have no way of knowing, leading to inefficiencies and wasted time in commuting for lessons that may not occur. This illustrates a systemic challenge within the defense forces that impedes effective language learning among recruits.

Further complicating the situation is the lack of necessary teaching resources and infrastructure at military sites. Educators have pointed out that limitations on using digital tools and the absence of essential equipment, such as routers, hinder the effectiveness of language teaching. Such issues reflect broader implications regarding resource allocation within the military, and the need to address educational support in tandem with operational needs to ensure recruits can successfully learn the language required for their service roles.