Sharjah's Historical Dictionary Of Arabic Language Receives Praise From European Academics For Its Impact

A group of European scholars specialising in Arabic language studies has commended the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah (ALA) for its dedication to preserving the Arabic language and promoting its teaching to non-native speakers. They highlighted the "Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language," launched in Sharjah with the support of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, as a significant achievement in safeguarding Arabic.

The dictionary serves as an extensive resource on the history of Arabic vocabulary, sciences, and knowledge. The delegation included academics from universities in Italy, Spain, and Serbia. They also attended an international conference on Arabic language and literature organised by Al Qasimia University in collaboration with ALA.

The conference, titled "Teaching Arabic to Non-Native Speakers: Curriculum and Specificity," aligns with ALA's ongoing efforts to enhance international cooperation with European universities focusing on studying and teaching Arabic. Dr. Mohamed Safi Al Mosteghanemi, Secretary-General of ALA, shared H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan's vision for the Historical Dictionary.

Dr. Al Mosteghanemi explained the methodology behind creating the dictionary and emphasised the considerable efforts involved in its completion. He remarked that interest from academics worldwide highlights the dictionary's impact on both historical and contemporary aspects of Arabic.

Professor Giuliano Mion from the University of Cagliari in Italy expressed his appreciation for participating in the conference on teaching Arabic to non-native speakers. He presented a research paper and explored the printed volumes of the Historical Dictionary, which he found invaluable for his study on 'time' in Arabic language and literature.

Dr. Laura Gago Gómez from the University of Salamanca in Spain attended at ALA's invitation to participate in a scientific conference on Arabic education for non-native speakers. She prepared a research paper titled "Arabic Language Curricula for Spanish Speakers in the 20th Century."

Impact of Historical Dictionary

Dr. Gómez described the Historical Dictionary as a monumental achievement, advising her postgraduate students to engage with its content. She mentioned that soon a doctoral thesis based on research using this dictionary will be defended.

Dr. Dragana Georgievitch from the University of Belgrade in Serbia shared her experience during her second visit to Sharjah and ALA. She participated in an opening discussion session where she presented teaching methods used at her university.

Support for Arabic Culture

The delegation expressed gratitude to Sharjah's Ruler for his unwavering support of Arabic culture, particularly his backing of linguistic centres and departments within European universities dedicated to studying Arabic.

"The interest shown by academics from prominent universities, both Arab and international, demonstrates the significant impact this work has had," said Dr. Al Mosteghanemi about the Historical Dictionary's influence.

This recognition places new responsibilities on ALA to expand initiatives ensuring all possible avenues are available for facilitating learning and research for both native and non-native speakers.

With inputs from WAM