Estonia’s Native Language Day is a significant event that celebrates the Estonian language and its rich cultural heritage. One of the highlights of this day is the live e-dictation contest organized by Vikerraadio, which attracts thousands of participants each year. This year, a total of 10,864 entries were received, just shy of the participation record set in the previous year.
The e-dictation exercise featured a challenging text that tested participants‘ spelling and grammar skills. Nearly 1,000 entries had only one, two, or three mistakes, showcasing the proficiency of many participants. The text highlighted key issues in education policy from a cultural history perspective, emphasizing the importance of language in shaping societal values.
The winners of the 2024 e-dictation contest were announced, with individuals from various categories recognized for their speed and accuracy in submitting the correct text. From Estonian philologists to students and non-native speakers, the competition showcased the diverse range of participants who took part in the event.
The live e-dictation exercise has become an increasingly popular tradition in Estonia, evolving from a one-off event to a highly anticipated annual celebration of Native Language Day. Schools, companies, organizations, and individuals from both within and outside Estonia participate in the contest, making it a truly inclusive and engaging activity.
The text for this year’s e-dictation exercise was carefully crafted by a team of language experts, including lecturers, language planners, and authors. Their expertise ensured that the text was challenging yet accessible, allowing participants to test their language skills while celebrating the beauty of the Estonian language.
Native Language Day holds special significance in Estonia, as it commemorates the birthday of poet Kristjan Jaak Peterson, a pioneer of Estonian literature. The e-dictation exercise is a fitting tribute to Peterson’s legacy, highlighting the importance of language in preserving cultural heritage and fostering national identity.
Overall, the live e-dictation contest organized by Vikerraadio is a testament to the enduring popularity of the Estonian language and the commitment of participants to uphold its traditions. By engaging in this annual event, individuals from all walks of life come together to celebrate their shared linguistic heritage and showcase their language skills in a fun and interactive way.