Sharjah hosts students from Catholic University of Italy

Arabic Language Academy (ALA) welcomed a student and academic delegation from the Catholic University of Italy, consisting of 11 students accompanied by Dr. Wael Farouk, Director of the Arabic Cultural Institute at the university.

This week-long visit, lasting until 17th April, includes an intensive linguistic, cultural, and tourism programme aimed at enhancing their Arabic language skills and connecting them with its vibrant culture, as well as introducing them to the history and landmarks of Sharjah.

The visit is part of the academic and cultural cooperation between the academy and global educational institutions, aligned with the academy's efforts to enhance the global presence of the Arabic language and provide a dynamic educational environment that combines language learning with cultural immersion.

Dr. Muhammad Safi Al-Mustaghanimi, Secretary-General of the Sharjah Arabic Language Academy, expressed pride in Sharjah as a place that unites people from around the world in love for the Arabic language. He stressed that teaching Arabic to non-native speakers should extend beyond grammar and syntax to immerse them in the depths of the culture and history of the Arab nation.

Dr. Wael Farouk affirmed that hosting the students represents an investment in the future and the planting of seeds for Arabic language and culture in Western society.

He noted that students who experience linguistic immersion will return home with valuable insights that deepen their connection to the Arabic language.

In addition to the academic programme, the academy is organising a series of cultural visits to introduce the Italian delegation to key cultural sites in Sharjah, including the House of Wisdom, the Quran Complex, and the Islamic Civilization Museum.

The excursions will also include tours in Khor Fakkan and a trip to Al Noor Island, allowing students to interact directly with Emirati culture.

The students expressed enthusiasm for participating in the lectures and visits that showcase Sharjah's commitment to the Arabic language. They appreciated the academy's efforts in organising this academic and cultural programme, affirming that this experience will enhance their language skills and deepen their understanding of Arab and Emirati cultural identity.

Matilda Ferrari, a graduate of the Catholic University in Milan, shared her passion for Arabic literature and her focus on analysing diverse literary texts. Meanwhile, Mila Vaninelli, a doctoral researcher in contemporary Arabic literature in Italy, noted that her visit to Sharjah would enrich her knowledge and cultural experience, making her more effective in conveying information to her future students.

Recently, as part of its centennial celebrations, Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL), in collaboration with the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah, hosted an event titled “Cultural Renaissance,” welcoming Arabist students from Al Qasimia University.

The delegation included 24 male and 21 female students, who took part in a cultural tour featuring a visit to Kalba Public Library and key historical, cultural, and tourist landmarks in Khorfakkan to deepen their understanding of Emirati and Arab culture while highlighting the pivotal role of public libraries in knowledge dissemination and intercultural exchange.

The tour reinforced SPL’s century-long mission of fostering culture and knowledge, positioning libraries as essential bridges between civilisations.

It also underscored the significance of public libraries as vibrant platforms for learning, dialogue, and engagement, particularly for Arabist students specialising in Arabic literature.

By providing immersive cultural experiences, SPL continues strengthening global appreciation for Arabic heritage and promoting meaningful connections between cultures.

As part of the event’s cultural programme, SPL hosted a panel discussion featuring Russian Arabist Anastasia Ostrokhova in the presence of Eman Bushlaibi, Director of SPL, along with researchers and cultural officials from the emirate.

During the discussion, Ostrokhova reflected on her journey with the Arabic language, which began during her studies in Belarus. She shared how her fascination with Arabic culture and its rich history inspired her to master Classical Arabic, which she now considers her second native language.

She deeply admired Arabic poetry and described it as “one of the most refined forms of poetry in the world.” She also highlighted the remarkable structure of Arabic grammar and syntax, noting that its precision and clarity were among the most beautiful aspects of the language.

Aisha Khamis Al Kaabi, the library’s chief librarian, provided an in-depth overview of its various sections and services.