Sharing for 15 years

One of the main obstacles to adapt in a new country is language. Most manage to get by in a “common” language, but even that has limits. That is why we must look for ways to learn the local language, and in Catalonia the Voluntariat per la Llengua programme is an excellent option. The scheme is now 15 years old has proven its success: since 2003, 125,000 pairs have been using the system to learn and teach Catalan. The idea is to facilitate spaces for conversation between people who have basic notions of Catalan and want to acquire fluidity with others who are either native or fluent speakers.

The programme puts a student in contact with a volunteer for an hour a week over ten weeks and is often used as a complement for people who are also learning Catalan in formal education. “Adults who do not have Catalan as a common language do not always have the right environment to develop their skills, because their immediate circle is not used to it,” say coordinators. For this reason, the language partner allows for practise in a relaxed environment, and the learner can gain confidence and incorporate Catalan into their everyday life and activities.

There is no shortage of interest and applicants almost always exceed the number of volunteers available at any one time. Last year, 11,066 people participated in the programme, and 6,185 registered for the first time: 4,277 were learners and 1,908, volunteers.

Not all who would like to help can find time available, so last year a change was made which allows for on-line pairing. As well, a number of people who have benefitted as learners have moved on to become volunteers.