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Summer Czech language course for Czechs living abroad started in Poděbrady Castle

Almost all of the 60 participants from 22 countries from all over the world were able to attend the opening ceremony on 24 July. For some it only meant several hours of train ride to Poděbrady, others travelled for three days and three nights - some fellow countrymen arrived from as far away as South America and Myanmar.

The participants were welcomed in the auditorium by representatives of the Institute for Language and Preparatory Studies and by Mr. Jiří Krátký, Special Envoy for Czechs Living Abroad at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic. "I am pleased that we are meeting in such large numbers today. It means that the story of the expatriate Czechs is not history, but that it is alive in the present and that it also has a future." He also recalled that the last meeting of this size was held in 2019 before the events were restricted due to the pandemic.

The summer course of Czech language for Czechs living abroad offers its participants the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of the language and to become better acquainted with Czech culture and traditions. It is a rare opportunity for participants from different countries to meet and share their experiences with people of similar interests and roots. The summer course serves as a platform for meeting, studying and developing skills in a pleasant and friendly atmosphere.  

The Institute for Language and Preparatory Studies has long supported expatriate communities around the world. "We are happy to be able to welcome you, as in the past years, at the amazing summer course that we have prepared for those of you who have Czech roots or who love the Czech language and the Czech Republic,," said Barbora Štindlová, Deputy Director of ILPS CU, as she greeted the students present. She also expressed her hope that the students would enjoy all the planned activities.  

The head of the Poděbrady Centre, Martin Melcer, said he wished the students to enjoy every minute of every lesson, lecture and trip and to keep coming back to Poděbrady for more and more courses.   

The summer course offers its participants the opportunity to participate in various lessons, workshops, lectures and cultural events. They can also discover the beauty of the town of Poděbrady and its surrounding region and experience its authentic Czech atmosphere or visit the editorial office of the foreign broadcast of the Czech Radio.   

Text: Petra Köppl

Foto: René Volfík