Saamelaista

Saamelaista, also known as Saamelaisleiri, is a cultural and linguistic camp designed by the Finnish government for teaching the Saami language to children from the indigenous Saami population of Finland. Established in 1974, the camp is aimed at promoting the language, culture, and traditions of the Saami people, who speak the Saami language and have strong ties to the natural environment of Lapland.

Located in Inari municipality, Finnish Lapland, the camp serves over 100 children each summer, who come from Saami families or demonstrate interest and skills in the Saami language and culture. The camp is run by the Ilomantsi Teacher Training School and offers educational programs for a range of age groups. The curriculum includes instruction in the Saami language, cultural activities, and meaningful interactions with local Saami communities.

The primary goal of the saamelaista is to pass on the Saami language, traditions, and way of life to a new generation of young Saami individuals. The camp strives to preserve the authenticity and cultural integrity of the Saami people's ancestral heritage. Educators and guest lecturers working at the camp, many from the Saami community itself, guide the activities, teaching, and cultural practices of the camp.

Saamelaista is an essential institution for preserving and revitalizing Saami language and culture. It offers supportive, entertaining, and productive learning settings within traditional and extraordinary environments. Through these camps, the participants experience the natural beauty of Lapland and undergo an engaging, informative experience.

Saamelaista camps generally operate for several weeks during the summer season, welcoming students from a wide geographical area, consistent with the bureau of education that initiated the idea, focusing on functional amateurism.