Vilnius is implementing a plan to enhance Lithuanian language education for non-native speakers in response to disparities observed in academic performance.
In Vilnius, there is a noticeable disparity in academic achievements between graduates of national minority schools and those who study in Lithuanian. The vice mayor, Vytautas Mitalas, highlighted that many students in national minority schools face challenges in their educational journey due to insufficient Lithuanian language instruction and an increasing population of foreign children, which complicates their integration into the education system. Consequently, this contributes to unequal opportunities for these students in higher education and career prospects.
Currently, over 17% of Vilnius students are enrolled in national minority schools, of which there are 33 in the city. For years, primary students in these schools received significantly fewer Lithuanian language classes—70 fewer hours per year compared to their peers in Lithuanian schools—resulting in a cumulative deficit of around 315 hours of instruction over four years. This gap raises concerns about the students’ ability to compete academically and socially, further emphasizing the need for improved language education.
To address these challenges, the city is moving forward with a plan aimed at providing equal integration opportunities for both non-native Lithuanian citizens and foreign students in education. The initiative seeks to create a more inclusive educational environment, ensuring that all students have the necessary language skills to thrive in their studies and future careers, ultimately fostering a more integrated society in Lithuania.
