UOS hosts Int'l Forum on Islamic Scientific Heritage in Al-Andalus

April 28, 2025 / 12:35 PM

Sharjah 24: Under the patronage of His Excellency Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah (UOS), the Sharjah International Foundation for the History of Arab and Muslim Sciences (SIFHAMS) convened its Ninth International Scientific Forum, themed “Islamic Scientific Tradition and Heritage in Al-Andalus.” The event brought together leading scholars from the University of Sharjah and Spain, providing a vibrant platform to explore the enduring intellectual legacy of Islamic civilisation in Al-Andalus as a wellspring of creativity and scientific revival.

Keynote presentation

The forum opened with a keynote presentation by Dr. Montserrat Benítez Fernández, who traced the transformation of Granada’s historic “Casa del Chapiz” from a Moorish residence into the School of Arabic Studies; a research centre founded in 1932 to advance Arabic studies and safeguard Spain’s Arab-Islamic heritage. Dr. Fernández highlighted the institution’s pioneering research in dialectology and sociolinguistics, underscoring its role in preserving linguistic diversity.

An in-depth study

Dr. Estefanía A. Moschón followed with a presentation on an in-depth study, “Linguistics in Al-Andalus: Linguistic Diversity and Methodology in Manuscripts,” which examines the rich linguistic heritage produced by Andalusian scholars. Her research illuminated the diversity found in historical manuscripts and their significance in advancing our understanding of the evolution of the Arabic language.

The forum concluded with a presentation by Dr. Sami Di Giuseppa from the University of Sharjah, titled “The Enduring Civilisation of Al-Andalus in Art and Knowledge.” Dr. Di Giuseppa showcased how the legacy of Al-Andalus continues to inspire contemporary art exhibitions in Sharjah, blending authenticity with modern vision.

The event drew the participation of Prof. Nadia Alhosani, Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Design; Prof. Massoud Idris, Director of SIFHAMS; as well as a large gathering of researchers, graduate students, and enthusiasts.