Language support for Ukrainians in the Czech Republic: where and how to learn Czech for free
Since the beginning of the war, millions of Ukrainians found refuge in various European countries, and the Czech Republic has become one of those states that actively help displaced people. In the conditions of war, integration becomes one of the main problems for Ukrainian refugees. Language barriers, cultural differences and the need to find work often make adaptation difficult. The Czech Republic, on the other hand, actively promotes integration through the provision of free language courses, financial support and social inclusion programs.
Czech language courses for Ukrainians: help and opportunities
Learning the Czech language has become an important step for many Ukrainians who seek to find their place in the new society. The demand for language courses has grown significantly, and the Czech Republic has responded quickly to this need.
For example, the Eufrat language school in Pilsen organized free lessons for children. The lessons are conducted by 23-year-old Stanislav Afitsky, who himself moved to the Czech Republic as a child.
“I want to help children learn to speak Czech so that they can easily adapt to a new environment.” – tells he.
The University of West Bohemia also offers free Czech language courses for adults. It is especially convenient that childcare is organized for mothers during classes. The course is designed for beginners and ends with the achievement of the A1 level.
Language programs in Brno are even more oriented towards cultural integration. The lessons include not only the study of grammar and spelling, but also familiarization with the cultural traditions, history and social norms of the Czech Republic. These courses are organized by the non-profit JCMM Center in cooperation with the Center for Foreigners.
Czech language as a key to integration
One of the largest projects is “Czech Republic is Key”, which organizes courses for Ukrainians with temporary protection. The training lasts 40 hours and takes place in the center of Prague. Participants can choose convenient dates and training level.
Free courses financed by the region are also organized for future high school students in the Karlovy Vary Region. These programs are aimed at preparing children for integration into the Czech education system.
In addition to free options, paid courses are also available in the Czech Republic for Ukrainians who want to gain deeper knowledge of the language. Such programs are mainly aimed at citizens of non-EU countries and involve intensive classes. They are important for those who plan to stay in the Czech Republic on a long-term basis or seek local education or work.
The importance of language support for Ukrainians
The Czech language becomes not only a means of communication, but also a tool for building a new life. Language courses allow Ukrainians to adapt to life in the Czech Republic, integrate into society, find work or gain access to education.
The director of the language school, Dana Bureshova, spoke about the reasons for creating courses for Ukrainian refugees:
“My friend brought from the border a car full of people who were looking for shelter. It was then that the idea to organize courses arose. Volunteers immediately started contacting us with a desire to teach.”
The demand for training turned out to be very high. Although all teachers work on a volunteer basis, the school would appreciate financial support from companies or organizations.
The University of West Bohemia also joined the initiative, organizing free Czech language courses for adults. As Michal Vanek, a representative of the Institute of Language Training, noted, childcare is organized for mothers participating in the classes.
“Courses are focused on practical needs and designed for the initial level. Participants will start from scratch and will be able to reach level A1.” Vanek explained. The classes are conducted by both permanent teachers of the university and students.
The Czech Republic demonstrates that support for refugees can be not only humanitarian, but also future-oriented. Thanks to such initiatives, thousands of Ukrainians get the opportunity not only to survive, but also to find a new place in society, which is ready to help them in these difficult times.
