The MEMM project is a development project designed to respond to the changing social conditions in Iceland, where diversity is constantly growing. The article states: “In the last ten years, the proportion of immigrants in Iceland has increased from 8% to 18%, and in the country’s pre-schools and primary schools, children with diverse language and cultural backgrounds have grown to an average of about one third. This trend is likely to continue, and it is therefore high time to respond to a widespread call for better care for these children.”

MEMM is a pilot project that is being implemented in collaboration between the Ministry of Education and Children, the Centre for Education and School Services, the City of Reykjavík and other municipalities and aims to create a coordinated policy for the reception and education of children with diverse backgrounds in Icelandic schools. The project is based on equal education and access for all children regardless of their background, and emphasises in particular “that a diverse language and culture is considered a resource that should be nurtured, as well as re-evaluating our own attitudes and discourse in the field.”

Icelandic courses for students with a second language in secondary schools have already been started, as well as new advisory tools and tools for teachers, local authorities and schools, which can be used nationwide. “The project requires us to work together, adopt a vision and have the courage to develop and test a wide range of approaches,” as stated in the article, which focuses on ensuring the well-being of all children and building a society where diversity is respected and promoted.

This development project promotes active participation of children with diverse backgrounds, both academically and socially, and provides a basis for a vision based on acceptance and cultural sensitivity in Icelandic society.

The article can be accessed here.

Fríða Bjarney and Donata H. Bukowska, an expert at the Ministry of Education and Children, spoke on Morgunútvarpið on Rás 2 on 25 October and explained how the project is intended to promote the acceptance and active participation of foreigners in Icelandic society. You can listen to the interview here, starting at 54 minutes.