The Saami language situation and Nord University’s role in the revitalization of Lule Saami and South Saami

Nord University has the national responsibility for South Saami and Lule Saami language and culture in higher education. As of 2018 Nord University offers a South and Lule Saami Teacher Education Programme on master’s level. In my presentation I will talk briefly about the past and present situation for these two Saami languages and Nord University’s Lule and South Saami teacher education programmes including our upcoming Saami Early Childhood Education Programme. The two languages in question are classified as severely endangered (UNESCO). In spite of the challenges, the ongoing language revitalization process involving young and old members of the Saami community has given a strong momentum to the pride of being Saami.