According to the 2022 Education First (EF) English Proficiency Index, Norway places fourth in the world for English language proficiency and third in all of Europe. So why do many immigrants who speak English try so hard to learn Norwegian (Norsk)? I have compiled some answers from the wonderful people I have met at my weekly Norsk speaking sessions. The Norwegian Red Cross (Røde Kors) supports these language-speaking practice sessions. Until last month, I was not aware that this was a service they provided!
Chiara (pictured) is a new friend I met at these weekly speaking practices. She is originally from Italy and is now a Ph.D. student at the University of Tromsø (UiT). When asked about her desire to learn Norsk, she said the following:
"My desire to learn Norwegian is driven by the fact that even though everyone speaks English, I will never feel totally integrated in the society until I speak its language… The reason why I came to this country is not related to language at all. I was interested in arctic mammals, so when I found out about the UiT physiology program, I decided to apply for it. One year later I moved to Tromsø. After almost six years here, I do feel like I would like to stay, and that is the main reason why I am really trying to practice the language."
