baltnews.lv
Latvian parliament members approved changes to the legislation banning private universities and colleges to implement educational programs in the Russian language at the Latvian Parliament Committee’s session. This question was discussed on June 13. This draft is to be reviewed by the Parliament further, Mixnews website informs.
Students will not have access to such programs starting next year. Nevertheless, those already studying will be allowed to get a diploma. In accordance with the present legislation, it is allowed to get education in a foreign language in order to get a degree in foreign languages (linguistic and cultural educational programs).
In opinion of the Ministry of Education representatives, further changes are needed due to the earlier approved law banning education in the Russian language in Latvia. All national minorities will study in the state language only.
Ministry explained that the state only sets criteria for foundation and accreditation of higher educational institutions in the country. It means that only the state can decide what language suits for teaching. At this, they left an opportunity to study in the European languages.
Chief of the Latvian Association of Private Universities Aldis Baumanis believes that the changes would mean that there would be fewer foreign students in the country, which would mean decrease of investment flows. He called this decision premature. Baumanis is sure that this was made in order to achieve somebody’s political goals at the forthcoming elections.
Around a third part of the students from private universities in Latvia studied in the Russian language last year.
Russkiy Mir
