The CLS Russian Program in Daugavpils is hosted by Learn Russian in the European Union, which has provided structured Russian language immersion programs for international students for over two decades. Classes focus on the four skills of language development – listening, speaking, reading, and writing and incorporate authentic material from mass media and pop culture. The academic program culminates in a final project built around students’ own interests and guided by a faculty member. 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.

Co-curricular activities are designed to provide insight into Latvia’s complex history, contemporary relationships, and shed light on how people in the region view local and global events. Past participants have attended a Ligo celebration, visited the houses of worship on Church Hill, and learned about the life and work of artist Mark Rothko at the Rothko Museum.

Students live with host families to experience daily life in Daugavpils . Host families can help students navigate daily life and explore their personal and professional interests. Past students have spent free time cooking with their host families, visiting their summer houses (dachas), and enjoying the natural areas that surround the city, all while practicing their Russian language skills in an informal, relaxed environment.