VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Migrant families in Malta are maintaining their heritage languages at home, but English dominates daily life while Maltese remains marginal, a new study shows.
The research, Speaking Home, Speaking Host by the Malta Review of Educational Research surveyed 32 migrant parents with children in state schools. Families came from countries including Ukraine, China, Albania and Latvia, with most having arrived recently. English was found to be the main language for schoolwork, media use and writing, while heritage languages were mostly used during mealtimes and parent–child interactions. Maltese was the least used language across nearly all home activities.
Although 75% of parents said children need to understand the local language to feel a sense of belonging, only 34% believed Maltese should be the primary language. English was prioritised by 63%, while nearly half expressed neutral views on Maltese acquisition. Parents placed strong value on heritage languages, citing emotional expression, mental health and cultural identity. Many supported after-school classes and maintaining close family ties to reinforce language skills. The study warns that limited exposure to Maltese outside school may hinder integration. The authors call for more accessible Maltese-language media and structured opportunities for migrant children to engage with native speakers.
– photo IPA Agency –
(ITALPRESS).
