On Wednesday, October 16, the city of Nice honored the winners of the Nissart exams of the 2024 Baccalaureate. This event also celebrates the deserving students from schools teaching the regional language.
The Niçard language continues to resonate in the schools of the region. On Wednesday October 16, 2024, 14 graduates and 31 deserving students from Nice’s schools, colleges, and high schools were rewarded for their efforts during a ceremony at the City Hall of Nice. The preservation and transmission of this regional language are at the heart of local concerns.
A Testimony of a Living History
Regional languages, like Nissart, are precious witnesses of the history and lifestyle of our ancestors. They connect generations and allow us to understand the customs and traditions of the past. Thus, regional languages embody a collective memory to be preserved.
Beyond being a vector of historical transmission, Nissart is a strong link between the inhabitants of Nice. It represents a common culture, thus strengthening social cohesion. For newcomers, learning Nissart can facilitate their integration, just as it did for the Italian immigrants of the 19th century.
Educational Initiatives in Place, but Challenges to Overcome
Today, despite a marked interest from students and parents, schools face challenges. The lack of qualified teachers in regional languages makes teaching difficult. However, initiatives exist, such as the French-Niçard bilingual schools of Orangers and Fouont Cauda. Efforts are also being made to raise young people’s awareness of the local culture, notably through learning traditional Niçard dance.
Learning Nissart offers several advantages for young people. In addition to strengthening their connection to the local culture, this language facilitates the learning of other Latin languages, such as Italian and Spanish. Thus, students develop language skills useful for their future.
