Eritrean Language School (ELS)

Founded in December 2005, the Eritrean Language School is an initiative manned by a team of youth and community volunteers to deepen the linguistic and cultural knowledge of Eritrean youth in the Washington, DC area. Classes are instructed in Tigrinya and Arabic, focusing on building the reading, writing and conversation skills of students. Periodic seminars covering basic Eritrean history and culture are also offered. Starting with around 30 students, ELS has grown to boast some 100 students, ranging between the ages of 7 and 18.

Now in its third session, ELS hopes to continue its expansion, enrolling more students, offering a wider array of classes, including instruction in other Eritrean languages such as Tigre, traditional music and dance, history and adult instruction.