Coimbra Centre And Milan’s ACI Enhance Arabic Language Education Across Europe

The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has taken a significant step in promoting Arabic culture globally. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, announced the opening of the Centre for Arabic Studies at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. This initiative, inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, aims to integrate Arabic language and culture into global education.

Dr. Wael Farouk, Director of the Arab Cultural Institute (ACI) in Milan, emphasised the importance of these centres. He stated that they are part of a larger effort led by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah to enhance the global presence of the Arabic language. "Many countries have cultural centres that promote their languages and cultures; now, it’s time for the Arab world to have similar institutions," he said.

The Centre for Arabic Studies in Coimbra is set to connect educational and cultural institutions in Sharjah with major cities worldwide. This connection will foster academic learning and cultural discussions while encouraging innovation. The centre's activities will include organising cultural events, workshops, translation projects, and literary exchanges.

Farouk described the Arab Cultural Institute in Milan as a pioneering step towards establishing a network of Arab cultural centres. These centres aim to create dialogue and strengthen ties between Arab and Western societies. They will highlight Arab cultures' contributions to global knowledge under SBA's guidance.

The Arab Cultural Institute in Milan has made notable achievements since its inception. It has attracted thousands eager to learn Arabic and offers language services to diverse communities. For instance, it partnered with Italy's Ministry of Justice to teach officers Arabic and introduce them to Arab culture.

Moreover, the Institute collaborates with Italy's Ministry of Tourism to train hotel staff in northern Italy on welcoming Arab tourists respectfully. It also engages with French intellectuals on various projects, further expanding its reach and influence.

Promoting Cultural Activities

The Institute actively participates in competitions like Arabic calligraphy and poetry recitation, with students earning awards. It has launched clubs focused on Arabic cinema and reading, exploring Arab culture's influence in Italy. This exploration led to discovering 300 ancient Arab coins in an Italian museum.

A professor specialising in ancient coins is studying these artefacts' history, with plans for a book detailing their journey to Italy. Such initiatives showcase Sharjah's commitment to sharing culture and knowledge globally.

With support from H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, these efforts aim to build strong international partnerships and improve research collaboration. The goal is to expand Sharjah’s cultural reach worldwide while fostering mutual understanding between different cultures.

With inputs from WAM