The Norwegian Government has established an expert group to strengthen early childhood education for Sámi children, focusing on expanding Sámi kindergarten provision and increasing the number of Sámi‑speaking teachers. 

Sámi languages are spoken across Sápmi in northern Norway, Sweden, Finland and north‑western Russia and are central to Sámi culture and identity. Sámi languages have strong legal protection in Norway, and Sámi children have statutory rights to Sámi‑language kindergarten provision and to education in and through Sámi at school.

The Norwegian Government seeks to strengthen Sámi language policy by expanding Sámi kindergarten provision and increasing the number of Sámi‑speaking teachers. In response to growing demand and persistent staff shortages, an expert group has been established to advise the Ministry of Education on how early childhood education can be improved nationwide. The committee will develop an updated evidence base. They will also recommend short‑ and long‑term measures to enhance access, quality and equity, strengthen Sámi language and culture in early years education, and ensure more equitable provision regardless of where Sámi children live. The group will deliver its report in summer 2027. 

The Sámi Parliament played a key role in initiating the expert group and worked closely with the Ministry of Education on its mandate, emphasising the central role of Sámi language, culture and values in early childhood education. 

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