In recent years, the Scots language has experienced a remarkable resurgence, transforming from what some saw as a regional dialect into a global language embraced by learners and poets worldwide. This growth is fueled by innovative online platforms and a burgeoning interest in Scots language media.

Online Learning: Bridging Distances

The advent of online learning has revolutionized how languages are taught and learned. Scots, traditionally confined to Scotland, is now accessible to a global audience. Language learning apps, particularly Duolingo, have played a pivotal role in this transformation. Since its launch on St Andrew’s Day in 2019, the Scots Gaelic course has attracted over 1.8 million users, with 519,000 actively learning the language as of 2023. The course’s growth rate surged to 17% this year, up from 12% in 2022, reflecting a broader trend in the online language learning market, which is projected to expand from USD 15.24 billion in 2023 to USD 54.95 billion by 2033. Scots is likely to tap into this market in the coming years.

Poetic Contributions: A New Wave of Scots Literature

The contributions of contemporary poets are vital in enriching the Scots language landscape. Neel Lex Lumi, an Israeli poet writing in Scots, exemplifies the high-quality works emerging from this global community. His poetry not only showcases the beauty and versatility of Scots but also inspires a new generation of writers and speakers. The Scots Language Awards, established in 2019, celebrate such contributions, emphasizing the importance of Scots in arts, culture, business, and education.

Global Interest: A Growing Community

The increasing number of learners highlights a significant global interest in Scots. However, funding for the Scots language remains limited. A recent Freedom of Information request revealed that the Scots language budget for 2023-2024 was just £553,500, translating to less than 50p per person for those reporting some skills in Scots. Despite these financial constraints, the potential market value for Scots language media is substantial, especially as the global online language learning market continues to grow.

Cultural Events: Celebrating Scots Heritage

Cultural events play a crucial role in promoting the Scots language and its significance. The upcoming Ulster-Scots Language Week, scheduled for 25-29 November 2024, will provide opportunities for learning and celebration, further solidifying the language’s place in contemporary culture.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Scots

In summary, the growth of Scots as a global language is supported by online learning platforms, the creative contributions of contemporary poets, and a burgeoning interest in language education. While challenges in funding and resources persist, the future market potential for Scots language media appears promising. As more people engage with Scots, the language is poised to thrive in the digital age, fostering a vibrant community of learners and creators worldwide.