New dimensions in language learning in Southeast Europe

IALC Workshop in Vienna revealed the increase in demand for learning languages other than English in Southeast Europe.

Belgrade, 19th September 2015 – Educational group PRODIREKT and the Verbalisti language network today announced new higher education partnerships which were forged at the workshop in Vienna, organized by IALC (International Association of Language Centres). During the workshop, which took place at the prestigious Vienna Savoy Hotel on 16th and 17th September 2015, 21 study travel agents met 16 IALC-accredited schools from 11 countries teaching 5 languages.

This was the first time IALC has organised a regional workshop with school delegates meeting agencies from across the region in a central hub. “Vienna is the perfect location for this type of event,” said IALC Marketing Manager Hollie Coffey. “It has great transport connections and it allowed agents to visit ActiLingua, a local German language school based in Vienna.”

ActiLingua school opened their doors for drinks before delegates headed to a reception at the Belvedere, a baroque palace overlooking the city. IALC President, Celestine Rowland welcomed new and returning agents in a speech at the Belvedere. Guests enjoyed food, drink and traditional music outside on the terrace in unusually hot September weather.

Apart from the meetings, the second day was reserved for the city tour. Baroque castles, ornate gardens and the city architecture shined in all its opulence, reminding the workshop participants that Vienna’s culture, history and surroundings make it a great place to learn German whatever your age and interests.

“We are very satisfied with the outcome of this workshop for we were able to discuss new agreements, relating to the university preparation programs, with the schools we already represent from the UK, Germany, France, Austria and Spain. I am also glad I had the opportunity to meet our language network’s students who were currently learning German in Vienna,” described the event PRODIREKT Education Program Manager Maja Merdovic.

The diversity of both schools and agents at the event reflected the general increase in demand for languages other than English in Central Europe. This was highlighted in recent research conducted for IALC by StudentMarketing which noted that “in countries where there is growing English proficiency, demand for other languages will increase”.