The CLS Program in Daugavpils is hosted by Learn Russian in the European Union, an organization which has provided structured Russian language immersion programs for international students for more than two decades. Formal classroom instruction consists of approximately 18 hours of Russian language classes per week held on the campus of Daugavpils University. Classes focus on the four skills of language development – listening, speaking, reading and writing and incorporate authentic material from mass media and pop culture. During the eight-week program students can expect to cover the equivalent of one academic year of university-level Russian study. In addition to Russian language courses, students also receive an introduction to the Latvian language which helps them to navigate the city and communicate respectfully with members of their host community.

Excursions, lectures, and other enrichment activities are designed to support and enhance language learning and exposure to the host culture. Excursions may include attending a Ligo celebration, visiting historic sites and places of worship such as Church Hill and the Basilica of Aglona, and participating in traditional Russian and Latvian cooking classes.

CLS students in Daugavpils experience daily life in the most Russian-speaking city both in the European Union and in NATO through the eyes of their host family members who range in age, profession, and life experiences. Host families can help students navigate daily life and explore their personal and professional interests.

CLS students meet with Russian-speaking language partners each week to practice their growing language skills in a relaxed environment. Students and language partners may spend time exploring the city’s public parks and museums, visiting cafes and restaurants, shopping, or going to concerts. Language partners and host family members can provide key insight into Latvia’s vibrant lifestyle and complex history and help shed light on how people in the region view local and global events.