What are the most popular Basque first names within Ikastola? Seaska, the federation of immersive schools in the Basque language, conducted the survey on the occasion of the release of its famous calendars. She listed the first names of the students of the 33 nursery schools in the federation, which still represents more than 1000 children. The last two surveys date back to 2012 and 2015.
In girls
“We note an evolution compared to previous eras, new fashions” reveals Ramuntxo Etxeberri, in charge of development at Seaska and author of this tedious work. “Among little girls, the first name Intza or Ihintza was the most popular, followed by Maddi, whereas a few years ago it was more Elaia who was in fashion. There are twenty or so. For years, it was especially the Amaia and Na (h) ia who were very well represented and they have almost disappeared from schoolyards “.
– DR
In boys
“Among boys, it is the more classic first names that come back: Xan, Mattin, or to a lesser extent Andde; while the Oihan and Unai who were really leaders ten years ago, are still very present but much less than at that time. “
– DR
More than 500 Basque first names are listed in the Seaska calendar. More than 55,000 copies printed each year, it has become a reference for all parents who wish to give their child a Basque first name. For the year 2021 it honors the province of Soule, with illustrations by Souletine photographer Eliane Héguiaphal.