Skip to content

Comparative Analysis of the Governance and Organisation of the Academic Studies of Estonian Language and Culture Abroad (EKKAV) Programme

Background

The Academic Studies of Estonian Language and Culture Abroad (EKKAV) is a state programme that supports the continuous teaching of the Estonian language and culture at universities outside Estonia, along with related support activities. The programme aims to provide high-quality, modern and sustainable education at internationally recognised higher education institutions and memory institutions important to Estonia. The programme’s results framework envisages growth in both the number of learners and the volume of courses: by 2027, the target is 1,500 learners, more than 30 higher education institutions included in the network, over 200 supported courses, and more than 35 scholarship holders arriving in Estonia annually.

Objective

The objective of the analysis is to map and compare the operational and governance model of the EKKAV programme (2018–2027) with similar programmes in other small countries, focusing in particular on the structure of strategic governance and the distribution of roles and responsibilities between the programme funder, the governing body and the implementing organisation. The aim is to obtain an overview of practical governance practices and, based on this, to formulate clear recommendations and directions for improving the management and organisation of the EKKAV programme.

Methodolgy

The study uses qualitative methods, including document analysis and semi-structured individual interviews. Methodological triangulation increases the reliability of the analysis by enabling a comparison between the organisational and governance logic described in the documents and the solutions implemented in practice.

Benefits

The study focused on the international comparison of the EKKAV programme’s governance and operational model and on mapping good management practices. As a result, recommendations were developed to enhance the transparency of programme governance, reduce case‑by‑case decision‑making, strengthen cooperation with partner universities, and ensure the cost‑effective interplay of programme measures.

Project Client: Education and Youth Board
Project implementer: LevelLab
Duration: 11/2025–01/2026