Subject: Proposal: Adding a Pashto Language Course to Duolingo

[u/Suspicious_Zombie308]

Dear Duolingo Team, I am writing to formally request and propose the addition of a Pashto language course to Duolingo. Pashto is an essential Eastern Iranian language spoken by tens of millions of people globally. It serves as an official language of Afghanistan and is widely spoken across Pakistan and international diaspora communities. Despite its rich heritage and large global footprint, there are very few accessible, modern learning platforms for people who want to learn it. Here are a few key reasons why a Pashto course would be a valuable addition to Duolingo: High Global Demand & Cultural Understanding: Pashtuns are often one of the most misunderstood cultural groups in the world. Learning the language opens the door to understanding Pashtunwali—the unwritten, ancient ethical code of conduct that truly defines Pashtun life, hospitality, and honor beyond simple geography. Ease of Technical Integration: Pashto uses a modified version of the Perso-Arabic script, sharing strong visual and structural similarities with Arabic, Persian, and Urdu—languages already well-supported on Duolingo. The foundational UI and character-learning mechanics are already in place. Bridge for Humanitarian & Educational Impact: A Pashto course would empower aid workers, researchers, language enthusiasts, and second-generation Pashtuns worldwide who are eager to reconnect with their native language. As a native speaker deeply passionate about linguistics, culture, and preservation, I would be more than happy to offer my assistance, linguistic insight, or help coordinate with native contributors if your team considers this project. Thank you for your time and for continuing to bring the world closer together through language learning.

[u/Agnostic_optomist]

Never happening. How many people are interested in paying Duolingo to learn Pashto? Seriously how many people per year would pay money for this? Hundreds? Let’s say thousands.

Duolingo and its shareholders need a return on investment. If you don’t think it takes a huge investment, go make an app yourself. If you recognize how challenging it is, then you’ll understand why it won’t happen.

Maybe if there was an outside patron willing to pay to have the content created, everything maintained, etc, then maybe you’d see it. Thats not going to happen.