Native languages theme week at The Adult Education Centre, 5–11 October 2026
This academic year, the Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region offers courses in Finnish, Swedish, Karelian and Finnish sign language. In addition, dozens of courses in literature and writing are available. Sámi languages are not offered this year.
Kristiina Kestinen, who is responsible for planning the centre’s literature and creative writing courses, emphasizes the importance of recognising that Finland has indigenous and national languages beyond Finnish.
– Your mother tongue is the language of emotions. That is why it is essential that people can read and write literature in their own native language, says Kestinen.
According to Paula Fiskaali, teacher and coordinator for Finnish language courses and immigrant education, multilingualism promotes understanding and interaction between different groups of people.
– A shared language strengthens a sense of community. Strong language skills also support learning and improve information literacy, Fiskaali notes.
To mark the theme week, students and teachers on courses related to Finland’s native languages are sharing their book recommendations. The Adult Education Centre has also selected a few recommendations, listed below.
The Year of Native Languages 2026 is coordinated by the Institute for the Languages of Finland (Kotus). The theme year highlights Finland’s native languages and their importance in culture and society.
Book recommendations for the native languages theme week
Finnish
Rosenberg, Riikka-Maria: Saara ja naakka
This easy-to-read adaptation for children is also suitable for adults who enjoy historical novels and fairy tales. The book introduces readers to Finland’s past, culture and historical vocabulary. Recommended language level: A2-B1.
Koski, Sami and Sandholm, Thomas: Thomas Sandholm – Born into Sign Language
This biography tells the story of a Deaf generation that avoided using sign language in public for fear of ridicule. It is also the story of a generation, some of whose members were not even allowed to be born.
Swedish
Åhman, Axel: Eldsjäl
The author is a member of the comedy group KAJ. The novel tells the story of a small village and the relationships between its residents. Life there is not quite as peaceful as one might imagine.
Karelian
Simukka, Salla: Ruskei kui veri
Kunnas, Mauri: Koirien Kalevala vienankarjalakši
Creative writing and literature
Alatalo, Katri: Kesäkuu
This story of two young people escaping into a Finnish summer night beautifully captures the magical atmosphere of the bright northern summer. Also available as an easy-to-read edition.
Vuokko-Syrjänen, Reetta: Harhakoto
What kind of story begins in Hervanta with a letter delivered by a duck? This mystery novel for young readers has been praised for its keen social insight. Also available as an easy-to-read edition.
