Highland Village Museum Establishing Gaelic Institute.

October 12, 2024 nnpress

Nova Scotia residents who want to learn about Gaelic culture and how to speak the language can take part in a pilot immersion program next year thanks to a provincial grant announced today, October 11.

“Language has a future if it is valued in the institutions of education and spoken at home with family and in the community with other speakers,” said Allan MacMaster, Minister of Gaelic Affairs. “The Gàidhlig aig Baile Institute will give participants the chance to learn and use Gaelic in everyday community life.”

The Highland Village Museum in Iona, Victoria County, received funding to establish the Gàidhlig aig Baile (Gaelic in Community) Institute, which will host a Gaelic immersion program for up to 10 people. The institute will also train instructors and support research.

Through the immersion program, participants will become part of the community, building relationships with local residents and organizations, attending community events and gatherings, and supporting local businesses.

The institute is expected to launch in early 2025. The location is not yet finalized.

Quotes:

“We are honoured to be working alongside the Office of Gaelic Affairs to bring the Gàidhlig aig Baile Institute to life. This initiative reflects our mission and deep commitment to preserving and revitalizing Gaelic language and culture in Nova Scotia. By creating immersive, community-based opportunities for language learners, we believe the institute will play a crucial role in ensuring Gaelic language continues to be a vibrant part of Nova Scotia’s identity for generations to come.”
— Melissa Blunden, Executive Director, Baile nan Gàidheal (Highland Village Museum)