ALA Hosts Austrian Delegation: Fostering Arabic Language Exchange

Discussing the visit to Sharjah, Dr. Al Mosteghanemi emphasised the ongoing collaboration between ALA and the Austrian Hammer-Purgstall Foundation since the initiation of the First Sharjah Conference on Arabic Language Studies in Europe at the end of the previous year. This conference delved into the status of the Arabic language in Europe and its role in cultural communication between the East and the West. The Academy has evolved into a preferred destination for Arabic language learners and international academic institutions, offering opportunities to study Arabic linguistics, and benefit from its diverse programmes and activities. Additionally, it serves as a gateway to explore Emirati culture and civilisation and visit prominent tourist and historical landmarks in Sharjah.

The visit stands as a testament to the ongoing scientific and cultural collaboration between the Academy and the Austrian foundation, fostering a supportive environment for students not proficient in the Arabic language. This initiative facilitates language skill enhancement through both academic interactions with professors during educational sessions and cultural and recreational experiences with Arabic-speaking companions during the guided tours included in the visit programme.

Commencing their programme, the Austrian student delegation visited the " Arabic Language Academy," exploring its library and cutting-edge scientific facilities. They acquainted themselves with classrooms equipped with state-of-the-art educational tools and resources, gaining insights into the Academy's dedicated efforts in producing the historical dictionary of the Arabic language. Subsequently, the delegation toured the "Holy Quran Academy," exploring its seven museums and the Islamic Research and Studies Centre it hosts. The visit provided them with a glimpse of rare manuscripts, concluding with a visit to the "Noor Mosque."
 
Scientific Education Programme Path:
The programme involves categorising students into two groups: one for beginners and another for intermediate learners, each having two separate daily sessions. The first session runs from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM, and the second from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM.

The beginner level focuses on guiding participants in the first group to refine their Arabic letter pronunciation. It also provides them with an extensive vocabulary and grammatical rules to enhance their language skills for practical use during class. The intermediate level supports participants in the second group in linguistic communication skills. This is achieved through training in proper pronunciation during conversation, reading, and listening exercises aimed at enriching vocabulary and refining speaking and writing abilities. Additionally, the intermediate level includes discussions on various topics related to Arab and Emirati culture.

To solidify the concepts discussed in scientific lessons, the programme incorporates cultural morning and evening visits to diverse academic and cultural destinations in the Emirate of Sharjah. Noteworthy places include "Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi Centre," "Al Qasba," "Al Qasimia University," "Central Market," "Sharjah Academy for Performing Arts," "House of Wisdom," "University of Sharjah," and "City Centre Al Zahia."

The programme includes taking the Austrian students on a trip to Khorfakkan and a safari before proceeding with visits to "Sharjah Mosque." The programme concludes with visits to "Research Academy" and "Noor Island."

The visiting delegation commended the academy's efforts to preserve the Arabic language, make it accessible to non-Arabic speakers, and promote its cultural and historical aspects. They expressed their eagerness to continue collaborating with the academy, envisioning an expansion of programmes and activities focused on teaching Arabic and familiarising the global community with its rich heritage.