Gaelic students bring back convention

The Comann was first established in 2023 at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in Skye and continued to grow in numbers and reach when it was held again in 2024. The annual convention didn’t go ahead in 2025 due to lack of funding.

The students hope that by re-establishing CNNO, the speaking of Gaelic will be increased and normalised amongst the current generation of students (and across generations), and that communication and collaboration will grow between colleges and universities across Scotland in relation to Gaelic matters.

The event also benefited the economy across the island by contributing to local businesses and organisations through the purchase of food, drink, accommodation, travel, and much more.

It is hoped that through participation in the event, students will be encouraged to pursue career paths in the Western Isles, and that islanders themselves – especially young people – will be inspired by the number of young adults from across Scotland (and beyond) who are speaking and taking pride in the language.

Some of the activities which the students participated in were: a concert in An Lanntair showcasing students’ musical talents; a potential recruitment opportunity at Lewis Castle College with businesses and organisations across the Western Isles; a heritage tour of North-West Lewis (Gaelic psalm-singing session with Comann Eachdraidh Sgìre a’ Bhac, visit to local hotels and social clubs, finishing with a community cèilidh in the Clan MacQuarry Community Centre); a meeting to establish a committee and to secure the future of the Comann; and an outdoor activities with Spòrs Gàidhlig.

The speaking of Gaelic was kept at the heart of everything that took place.

All participants would like to thank Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Bòrd na Gàidhlig for financial contributions and the wider community for giving CNNO such a warm Hebridean welcome. Thanks also to all who were involved in organising the event.