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Silke Jansen receives Emmi for creative writing in Low German lessons
On July 25, 2025, Silke Jansen from the European University of Flensburg received the “Emmi” for creative Low German projects in primary schools.
Silke Jansen receives Emmi for creative writing in Low German lessons
On July 25, 2025, important awards for the promotion of the Low German language were once again presented in the Kiel State House. The “Emmi för Plattdüütsch in Sleswig-Holsteen”, which was awarded for the ninth time this year, honors outstanding projects that are dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Low German. Over 14 projects were submitted in various categories, but only four were able to convince the jury and were awarded, including Silke Jansen, a master's graduate from the European University of Flensburg.
Silke Jansen received the Emmi in the “Universities” category for her master’s thesis entitled “Theoretical and practical considerations for the implementation of the concept of creative writing in Low German lessons at primary schools in Schleswig-Holstein”. The study, supervised by Robert Langhanke, shows innovative approaches to how creative writing can promote enthusiasm for the Low German language in children. Jansen emphasizes the relevance of Low German in the classroom and recommends simple writing techniques that encourage students to write their own stories.
The award in detail
The “Emmi for Plattdüütsch” is awarded every two years by the Schleswig-Holstein State Parliament, the Ministry of General and Vocational Education, Science, Research and Culture and the Schleswig-Holstein Local History Association. This year the award ceremony was conducted by State Parliament President Kristina Herbst. The prize was launched in 2011 as a successor to the Low German school seal and aims to promote Low German in schools and leisure facilities.
Overall, the following awards were presented:
| category | winner | project |
|---|---|---|
| primary schools | Rantrum primary school | Play directed by Sissi Aye |
| Secondary level I | Isarnwohld School Gettorf | Low German news program directed by Silke Brückenhauer |
| Universities | Silke Jansen | Master's thesis on creative writing in Low German lessons |
| Volunteering | De Plattdüütsche Vereen Viöl and Surroundings e.V. | Low German bicycle rally |
Promotion of Low German
The significance of the Emmi award goes beyond individual appreciation: it aims to keep Low German alive for future generations. In some regions, Low German is no longer spoken as a family language, which underlines the need for educational projects. Institutions like that PLSSH offer funding opportunities for projects that are intended to introduce children and young people to the Low German language and cultural landscape.
These projects include Low German theme days, seminars and training courses that focus on the use of the language in educational institutions. The initiative shows how important it is to give children access to Low German culture in kindergarten and school.
With this award-winning work and supporting projects, the actors hope not only to preserve Low German, but also to revitalize it and integrate it as a living language into the everyday lives of younger generations. Silke Jansen's award is a shining example of the commitment and creativity required to promote Low German.