Latest news with #SharjahArabicLanguageAcademy
Sharjah 24
25-05-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
ALA, UNESCO highlight role of historical dictionaries
The event coincided with the honouring of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah for completing the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language , now officially included in the UNESCO Library. The symposium also marked the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. Symposium focuses on Arabic and European linguistic heritage The symposium explored the significance of historical dictionaries across languages, including Arabic, French, Italian, Spanish, and German. It brought together distinguished scholars from leading linguistic and academic institutions across Europe and the Arab world. Notable participants Speakers included Dr Amhamed Safi Mosteghanemi (Sharjah Arabic Language Academy), Dr Paolo Dacicelli (La Crusca, Rome), Dr Sebastian Geuther (University of Göttingen, Germany), Dr Charlotte Curie (University of Lyon III, France), and Dr Laura Gago Gómez (University of Salamanca, Spain). Dr Wael Farouk, Director of the Institute of Arab Culture at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, moderated the symposium. UAE's UNESCO representative opens the event His Excellency Ali Al Haj Al Ali, Permanent Representative of the UAE to UNESCO, opened the event with a speech on behalf of the Arab Group. He praised the Ruler of Sharjah for his tireless efforts in supporting the Arabic language and emphasised the cultural and academic value of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language . A tribute to Arabic Language and civilisation Al Ali described the dictionary's inclusion in the UNESCO Library as more than a scholarly achievement—it is a celebration of centuries of Arabic intellectual heritage. He called the dictionary a 'timeless scientific treasure' and underscored the Arab Group's commitment to transforming Arabic into a tool for innovation and future development. Insights on the Arabic Historical Dictionary Dr Amhamed Safi Al-Mostghanemi provided a detailed overview of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language , its inception, and the massive collaborative effort involved. He emphasised its comprehensive documentation of word usage, historical evolution, and cultural significance—making it the largest and most modern Arabic linguistic reference of its kind. European perspectives on historical dictionaries Italian Language – Dr Paolo Dacicelli Dr Dacicelli discussed Italy's historical dictionaries, the evolving content, and their role in preserving linguistic history. He highlighted how such works provide insight into word origins and their transformations over time. German Language – Dr Sebastian Geuther Dr Geuther reviewed Germany's over 30 historical dictionaries, including the renowned Grimm Brothers' dictionary. He discussed their role in chronicling the German language's classical roots and regional dialects. French Language – Dr Charlotte Curie Dr Curie traced the development of French historical dictionaries to the 16th century, emphasising their cultural and political relevance. She mentioned the Diderot Encyclopedia as a foundational effort in documenting the French language. Spanish Language – Dr Laura Gago Gómez Dr Gómez concluded with insights into Spain's ongoing historical dictionary project, which traces the linguistic journey of Spanish from ancient civilisations through to the present day. Conclusion: A global linguistic milestone The symposium concluded with unanimous agreement on the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language as a groundbreaking linguistic and cultural achievement. Its unparalleled depth, accuracy, and documentation establish it as a reference of international significance.
Sharjah 24
12-04-2025
- Sharjah 24
ALA hosts delegation from Italian University
Academic and cultural collaboration 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. A Linguistic journey into culture and history 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 emphasized 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. Planting the seeds of Arabic culture in the west 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. Cultural and tourism activities In addition to the academic programme, the academy is organizing 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. Unique experience and knowledge exchange 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 program, 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 analyzing 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. The Sharjah Arabic Language Academy employs an innovative interactive teaching approach for the Italian student delegation, distributing paper slips with questions inspired by everyday situations, fostering discussion between students and teachers, and enhancing their thinking and expression skills while encouraging real-life language use.
