Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Sharjah marked a landmark moment in Arabic education as His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi attended the closing of the 4th International Forum for Arabic Language Teachers (IFALT). The three-day event, held from October 4 to 6 at the Sharjah Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research, gathered educators, experts, and students from around the world to enhance Arabic language teaching.
Ceremony Opens with Inspiration
The closing ceremony began with the UAE national anthem and recitations from the Holy Quran, setting an inspiring tone. Dr Muhadditha Al Hashemi, Chairperson of Sharjah Private Education Authority and Sharjah Education Academy, emphasized the forum’s role in empowering Arabic teachers, improving educational quality, and promoting Arabic as a key pillar of cultural identity and knowledge creation.
Achievements in Arabic Education Highlighted
Dr Al Hashemi showcased Sharjah’s achievements, including the standardized Arabic language test “Talaa,” which recorded performance above the international average. She also highlighted the “Teacher and Proud” program, which has trained over 120 female national teachers in private schools, advancing the UAE’s vision of promoting Standard Arabic in early education settings.
Global Participation and Knowledge Sharing
The forum featured 264 speakers from 23 countries and 46 institutions, reflecting global expertise in Arabic language education. Participants engaged in 77 workshops covering model lessons, digital education, calligraphy, and reading and writing skills. Special sessions for non-native speakers emphasized practical teaching innovations and linguistic skill assessments.
Cultural Activities Engage Students
Cultural engagement was a key feature of IFALT 2025. Students participated in poetry debates, hackathons, and competitions, while four Emirati writers shared insights in the Cultural Corner. A highlight was the student performance “Sharjah of Light” by Victoria International School, celebrating the Arabic language’s role in shaping knowledge and cultural identity.
Honouring Partners and Sponsors
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi honoured the forum’s sponsors and strategic partners, including the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah and the Arabic Language Educational Centre for Gulf States. Their contributions demonstrated Sharjah’s commitment to global collaboration in advancing Arabic education.
Concluding under the “With Arabic We Rise” initiative and coinciding with World Teachers’ Day, IFALT reaffirmed its dedication to advancing Arabic teaching. The closing activities will continue in Sharjah’s Eastern Region on October 7, extending the forum’s educational and cultural impact across the emirate.
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